Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Russia presents a significant opportunity for bilateral discussions aimed at enhancing India-Russia relations across various sectors, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized on Sunday.
First Meeting in 3 Years
Highlighting the importance of direct talks between PM Modi and President Vladimir Putin, Jaishankar noted the need to address issues such as trade imbalances and to chart a course for advancing mutual cooperation.
Speaking to ANI, Jaishankar underscored the historical significance of the annual summit between India and Russia, emphasizing that both nations greatly value this tradition.
He recalled India's commitment to ensuring the continuity of these summits, affirming that they serve as pivotal platforms for consolidating strategic partnerships and exploring new avenues of collaboration.
The upcoming 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit, scheduled after a gap of three years, marks a crucial milestone in bilateral relations.
PM Modi's agenda during the visit will encompass a range of engagements, including private meetings with President Putin, delegation-level talks, and participation in significant cultural and economic events at the VDNKH Complex in Moscow.
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Deeper Strategic Engagement
Discussions are expected to cover regional and global issues of mutual concern, with a focus on expanding trade relations, which currently faces a notable imbalance in favor of Russia.
India's ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, highlighted the visit's significance in strengthening energy cooperation and expanding trade beyond traditional sectors. He stressed the importance of exchanging views on regional and international developments, underscoring Russia's critical role as a key partner in India's energy security and economic diversification strategies.
PM Modi's itinerary also includes engagements with the Indian diaspora and a visit to the Rosatom Pavilion, underscoring India's keen interest in advancing cooperation in nuclear energy and other high-tech sectors.
As both leaders convene in Moscow, the discussions are poised to set the tone for deeper strategic engagement and collaborative efforts to address global challenges, including the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict.
