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Delhi: Russia and India’s relations are tried and tested. Russia is even mentioned in Indian Hindi film songs. Russia has stood by India on numerous occasions. Even in changing times, India and Russia have remained close to each other. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Russia a few months ago, and during this visit, his amazing chemistry with President Vladimir Putin was evident. Now, Russian President Vladimir Putin ( Putin’) is visiting India. Countries around the world are closely watching Putin’s visit to India.
Putin’s visit to India is significant
Russian President Putin’s visit to India is considered extremely important in many ways, especially amid the changing global situation, especially the Ukraine war and the balance of power in Asia. India and Russia’s relations are decades old. From defense to trade, from business to strategic partnership, the two countries have always been supportive. Putin’s visit to India also signals the strengthening of this relationship. So let’s understand why Putin’s visit to India is special and how strong the relationship between the two countries is.
Russia is with a friend
In reality, Russian President Putin’s visit to India is not just a formal visit. The message from Putin’s visit is clear: Russia still stands with its old friend in Asia and wants to deepen ties. This is a time when Russia’s relations with Western countries cannot be considered normal. At such a time, the importance of friendship in Asia, and especially in the India-Russia relationship, increases even more.
History of India-Russia Relations
India and Russia have a history of their own. This relationship dates back nearly 70 years. The 1971 Indo-Soviet Friendship Treaty is a prime example of their friendship. Furthermore, Russia has always been a firm supporter of India’s military technology and weapons. Russia has also supported India’s space program, and the two countries’ partnership in the energy sector is extremely important. The world has changed, friends have changed, but the trust of the old diplomatic relationship between India and Russia is still clearly visible.
India and Russia are together in the defense sector
Defense is a sector that can be called the backbone of the India-Russia partnership. This can be understood by considering that approximately 60 to 70 percent of the Indian military’s equipment is still based on Russian technology. These include the S-400 missile system, the BrahMos supersonic missile, the T-90 tank, MiG and Sukhoi fighter jets, and the Akula-class nuclear submarine. This area is expected to expand further during President Putin’s visit to India.
Increased Partnership in the Energy Sector
In recent times, Russia has become a major partner for India in the energy sector, going beyond defense. India purchased oil from Russia during the Ukraine war, overcoming US opposition. India is now among the largest oil buyers from Russia. Furthermore, cooperation between the two countries is also increasing in nuclear power projects. The Kudankulam nuclear plant in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu is being built with Russian assistance.
Discussions on the Ukraine War
Russia is currently embroiled in a war with Ukraine. Even in this complex situation, India has maintained a balanced and pragmatic relationship with Russia. India has not openly supported Russia, but it has also not voted against it in the United Nations. India has always emphasized dialogue and diplomatic solutions. Now, Putin’s visit to India may also lead to discussions on the war situation between the two countries, and Putin would like to maintain a strategic balance between India and Russia.
Will there be significant agreements between India and Russia?
Major agreements may be signed between India and Russia during President Vladimir Putin’s visit. These include a possible agreement on a new variant of the BrahMos missile, as well as the S-500 air defense system. The two countries may also sign agreements on new helicopters or fighter jets. Additionally, cooperation in new nuclear energy projects and chips, IT, and cybersecurity may also increase. The agreements reached during Putin’s visit will also determine the future direction of India-Russia relations.
