Jul 233 min read

Modi’s Bilateral Diplomacy: Strengthening India & Russia Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Visit to Russia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet President Vladimir Putin in Russia on July 8 and 9, marking their 17th meeting since Modi took office.
This visit is significant as it is Modi’s first bilateral trip in his current term, breaking the tradition of visiting neighboring countries first.
This visit underscores the importance India places on its relationship with Russia, especially in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions.

India and Russia share a seven-decade-long relationship that has evolved significantly over time.
During the Cold War, the USSR was India's main supplier of defense equipment, a legacy that continues today with 60-70% of India’s defense equipment originating from Russia.
This defense cooperation has transitioned from a buyer-seller relationship to joint research, co-development, and production.

India and Russia have signed several key defense agreements, including the supply of S-400 Triumf missile systems, MiG-29 fighter aircraft, and Kamov helicopters.
Additionally, the two countries jointly produce T-90 tanks, Su-30MKI fighters, AK-203 assault rifles, and BrahMos missiles.
The INS Vikramaditya, one of India’s aircraft carriers, is a former Soviet warship.

Since the Ukraine war, India has increased its purchase of discounted Russian oil, boosting bilateral trade.
The trade volume reached $65.70 billion in FY 2023-24, primarily driven by India’s import of Russian oil, petroleum products, fertilizers, and minerals.
This economic engagement helps India manage its energy needs and inflationary pressures.

India has maintained a delicate balance in its diplomatic stance on the Ukraine war.
While abstaining from condemning Russia outright, India has called for dialogue and respect for international law.
Modi’s remark to Putin that “this is not the era of war” has been a key diplomatic statement, echoed in global forums like the G20.

India is perceived as a neutral party that could potentially mediate between Russia and Ukraine.
Modi has maintained communication with both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
However, India abstained from the recent peace summit on Ukraine in Switzerland, emphasizing that only mutually acceptable solutions can lead to lasting peace.

Modi’s visit is strategically timed with recent high-level meetings between India and Western leaders, including US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and a US Congressional delegation.
India’s core concern is to maintain its defense relationship with Russia while ensuring that China does not dominate the bilateral dynamics.

A notable concern is the presence of Indians in Russia who have been misled into joining the Ukraine war.
India has requested their early discharge, an issue likely to be discussed during Modi’s visit.
Additionally, India aims to ensure that its strategic interests are not compromised by the closer ties between Moscow and Beijing.

Modi’s visit to Russia highlights the enduring importance of India-Russia ties, particularly in defense and energy.
By strengthening these historical ties, India seeks to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape, balancing its relations with Russia, China, and the West.

This article is crucial for UPSC CSE, UPSC CAPF, and other competitive exams as it covers key aspects of India’s foreign policy, defense partnerships, and strategic interests.
Understanding these dynamics is essential for essay writing, current affairs, and interviews.
The insights into India’s diplomatic balancing act and its historical ties with Russia provide a comprehensive view of the country's geopolitical strategies, which are vital for exam preparation in various defense and civil services exams.