India-Russia Relations: A Stabilizing Force in Global Affairs Ahead of Annual Summit

MOSCOW. India and Russia are intensifying preparations for their Annual Summit scheduled for next month. This crucial diplomatic activity saw key security and foreign policy leaders from both nations hold high-level meetings. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar met his counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, in Moscow, while National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met with Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev in New Delhi. These meetings come amidst heightened anticipation for President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India in December.

During his meeting in Moscow, Dr. Jaishankar described the India-Russia relationship as a "factor of stability" in international relations, emphasizing that the development of this partnership is in the interests of both countries and the global order. The primary focus of the discussion was on preparing for the 23rd Annual Summit and addressing global issues.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Jaishankar underscored the significance of the moment, stating, "This special occasion is even more important for me as we are preparing for President Putin's visit to India and the 23rd Annual Summit." He highlighted that numerous bilateral agreements, initiatives, and projects across various sectors are under discussion, and both sides are working towards finalizing them in the coming days. "This will certainly add more depth and significance to our 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,'" he added.

On the social media platform ‘X,’ Dr. Jaishankar noted that discussions covered the extensive bilateral partnership, including trade, investment, energy, agriculture, technology, and cultural exchanges. They also exchanged views on regional, global, and multilateral issues.

Following the bilateral meeting, Dr. Jaishankar represented India at the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meeting on Tuesday, where he stressed cooperation in trade, economy, culture, and humanitarian fields, advocating for a free trade and reform-oriented agenda.

Prior to Moscow, the External Affairs Minister was on an official visit to Doha, where he held strategic discussions with Qatar's leadership to strengthen cooperation in energy, trade, and investment.

(Report by Saswat Tiwari)