As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his upcoming visit to Russia, questions have arisen regarding recent high-level engagements between India and its longstanding partner. Notably absent from public records on the Indian mission’s website are visits by key figures such as Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra, the Defence Secretary, Defence Minister, or Commerce Minister to Moscow over the past year.
In contrast, other officials have made notable visits: Secretary (Economic Relations) Dammu Ravi visited Moscow twice this year, while NSA Ajit Doval was there in April and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in December of the previous year. The lack of recent visits by defence officials is particularly striking given the pivotal role defence plays in the India-Russia relationship, which is characterized as a “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”
This partnership encompasses significant joint projects like the manufacture of AK-203 rifles in India, collaboration on human spaceflight programs, and the longstanding Kudankulam nuclear power project. The absence of recent high-level engagements underscores the potential importance of Modi’s upcoming standalone visit in advancing bilateral ties.
The visit is expected to address crucial issues such as finalizing agreements on strategic projects, including components for the S-400 ballistic missile defence system and cooperation in Arctic logistics. India’s interest in Russia’s naval base agreement with Sudan also highlights strategic considerations, potentially enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region.
However, the visit is not without geopolitical implications, particularly concerning how it might be perceived by Western powers, notably the United States. They closely monitor India’s engagements with Russia amidst global strategic realignments and geopolitical tensions.
Modi’s direct engagement with President Putin offers an opportunity to discuss pressing global issues, including the Ukraine conflict and broader geopolitical dynamics. Insights gained from this meeting could shape India’s diplomatic stance and interactions with Western counterparts, ensuring a balanced approach amid evolving international dynamics.
In conclusion, Modi’s visit underscores Russia’s enduring significance in India’s foreign policy calculus, navigating complex global challenges while reinforcing longstanding bilateral ties with Moscow.
