External Affairs Minister Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to deepening ties with Russia under its BRICS chairmanship, aiming to address common challenges collaboratively. Jaishankar highlighted the significance of the recent visit by Russian President Putin to India in expanding bilateral cooperation across various sectors. Both countries aim to boost annual trade to $100 billion by 2030 through initiatives like the India-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement and enhancing cultural exchanges.
India and Russia share strong cultural bonds, with growing people-to-people connections based on mutual interests in art, yoga, and culture. Jaishankar mentioned the display of sacred relics of Shakyamuni Buddha in Russia’s Kalmykia as a symbol of the close cultural ties. The establishment of new Indian consulates in Yekaterinburg and Kazan is expected to further enhance economic and cultural relations between the two nations.
In the evolving global order, Jaishankar stressed the importance of increased cooperation through platforms like BRICS, SCO, G20, and the UN. He commended the efforts of think tanks and embassies in organizing initiatives to strengthen India-Russia ties. The strategic partnership between the two countries, rooted in trust and respect, has played a vital role in promoting regional and global peace and stability.
