External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its long-standing partnership with Russia, stating that New Delhi will work closely with Moscow under its BRICS chairmanship to address shared global challenges.
Speaking virtually at a conference titled “India and Russia: Towards a New Bilateral Agenda”, Jaishankar highlighted India’s “humanity-first” and people-centric approach during its leadership of BRICS.
He emphasised that India looks forward to collaborating with Russia in a balanced and inclusive manner, while reiterating the strong foundation of trust and mutual respect that defines the bilateral relationship.
Referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India in December 2025, Jaishankar noted that the engagement marked an expansion of cooperation into new areas such as mobility of skilled professionals, healthcare, food safety, maritime collaboration, fertilisers, customs, and academic exchanges.
The minister underlined that both countries are committed to significantly enhancing bilateral trade, with a long-term target of reaching $100 billion by 2050. He stressed the need to conclude the proposed free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, while addressing non-tariff barriers and regulatory challenges.
Jaishankar also highlighted the deep cultural and civilisational ties between India and Russia, noting growing people-to-people connections based on shared appreciation for traditions such as yoga, Ayurveda, and art. He cited cultural exchanges, including exhibitions of sacred Buddhist relics, as a testament to these enduring links.
The establishment of new Indian consulates in Russian cities like Yekaterinburg and Kazan is expected to further strengthen economic, cultural, and social engagement between the two nations.
He also stressed the importance of multilateral cooperation in an evolving global order, pointing to platforms such as BRICS, SCO, G20, and the United Nations as key avenues for collaboration.
Concluding his remarks, Jaishankar described India-Russia ties as a “special and privileged strategic partnership” that has contributed to regional and global peace, stability, and progress, and continues to deepen through regular high-level exchanges.
