National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval visited Russia’s National Space Centre in Moscow alongside First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov. The visit included a live interaction with the Russian crew on the International Space Station (ISS) at the space centre named after Vera Tereshkova, the world’s first female cosmonaut. Doval and Manturov explored the space technology exhibit, viewing models of advanced space technologies like the four-chamber liquid rocket engine and the Russian Orbital Station base module.
Representatives from both countries also visited the Roscosmos Joint Industry Information Center (JIIC), dedicated to monitoring and analyzing data related to the rocket and space industry. The visit included discussions on managing the future ROS. Doval and Manturov engaged in a live conversation with Russian ISS crew members Sergei Kud-Sverchkov, Andrey Fedyaev, and Sergey Mikayev, who shared insights about their recent spacewalk. Videos of Doval examining the official car of Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space, circulated widely on social media.
The visit also involved discussions on India-Russia space cooperation. Doval’s Moscow trip was part of attending the International Security Forum and the Meeting of High Representatives for Security Matters. At the forum, Doval emphasized the importance of unified action against terrorism without double standards. He highlighted the significance of ensuring secure trade routes in regions like West Asia, emphasizing the safe passage through international waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.
During the forum, Doval reiterated the need for nations to make clear choices in countering terrorism sponsors. He met with Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Sergei Shoigu and reviewed the progress in defense, security, energy, and economic collaborations. Discussions also touched on the upcoming BRICS NSA meeting in New Delhi. Further bilateral meetings were scheduled for Doval on the sidelines of the Forum.
