Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to New Delhi underscored the enduring strength of India-Russia relations, a friendship tested by global shifts. The warm reception, including a personal welcome by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, signaled the special bond between the two nations.
Significantly, bilateral trade has seen a remarkable surge, climbing from $8 billion five years ago to $68 billion today. India continues to rely on Russia for crucial crude oil imports, even amidst international sanctions, and its defense forces depend heavily on Russian weaponry for operational readiness.
In a dramatically altered global geopolitical landscape, marked by Russia’s Ukraine invasion and shifts in major power dynamics, India has demonstrated its commitment to an independent foreign policy. This visit highlights India’s dedication to maintaining a close partnership with Russia, acting as a strategic counterbalance to Western efforts to isolate Moscow.
For India, the robust relationship with Russia is vital for securing energy resources and defense capabilities, enabling it to navigate a complex international environment. The discounted Russian oil has bolstered India’s energy security and supported its economic growth over the past four years.
The visit also served to reinforce that Russia remains a significant global player, actively engaging with nations across Asia, Africa, and the Global South. Moscow’s strategic focus on Asia is evident in its engagements with New Delhi and Beijing, emphasizing infrastructure, energy, and technological cooperation.
Furthermore, Putin’s visit signaled unequivocal support for India’s strategic autonomy. Russia reiterated its trust in India as a partner capable of making independent policy decisions, underscored by the extended duration of the visit, signifying respect for India’s sovereign choices.
This engagement occurred against the backdrop of ongoing negotiations between India and the United States. While the US has exerted pressure on India regarding its relationships with China and Russia, India has maintained a measured approach, prioritizing its national interests across its multifaceted strategic partnerships.
The India-Russia relationship, far from being reset, has reinforced its continuity and momentum. Over the past 25 years, this partnership has expanded, with future growth anticipated in defense, small nuclear energy, labor mobility, and trade agreements, including deeper ties through frameworks like the Eurasian Economic Union.
Ultimately, Putin’s visit reinforced the deep-seated nature of the India-Russia alliance and its capacity to thrive amidst global complexities, pursuing shared strategic interests in Asia and beyond.