The visit of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to Russia, which concluded on August 21, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the India-Russia relationship. As two major emerging economies, India and Russia have been working closely together to strengthen their strategic partnership.
A Key Meeting in Moscow
During his visit, EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar met with President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, and Minister for Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov. These meetings were crucial in strengthening bilateral ties and discussing key issues of mutual interest.
Global Governance: A Shared Commitment
Both India and Russia reaffirmed their commitment to reforming global governance and collaborating on various international forums such as the G20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). EAM underlined the importance of expanding and energizing the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary realities.
A Call for Joint Action Against Terrorism
The visit also saw discussions on terrorism, with both sides resolving to combat all forms and manifestations of terrorism jointly. EAM conveyed India's strong resolve to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism and its sovereign right to defend Indian citizens against cross-border terrorism.
Energy Cooperation: A Bright Spot
The visit highlighted the importance of sustaining energy cooperation through trade and investments between India and Russia. The two countries have been exploring ways to increase their oil imports from each other, which is expected to boost economic ties.
A New Era for Bilateral Trade?
During his meeting with First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar co-chaired the 26th Session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC). The session emphasized the need to address tariff and non-tariff trade barriers, promote connectivity, and effect payment mechanisms smoothly.
A Call for Closer Interaction
The visit concluded with EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar inviting Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to pay a visit to India at a mutually convenient date to continue their dialogue. This move is expected to further strengthen bilateral ties and enhance cooperation in areas such as defense, trade, and culture.
Key Takeaways from the Visit
Strengthened Bilateral Ties: The visit marked a significant milestone in the India-Russia relationship, with both sides committing to strengthen their strategic partnership.
Global Governance: Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to reforming global governance and collaborating on various international forums.
Energy Cooperation: Sustaining energy cooperation through trade and investments is expected to boost economic ties between India and Russia.
Joint Action Against Terrorism: The visit saw discussions on terrorism, with both sides resolving to combat all forms and manifestations of terrorism jointly.
The Future of India-Russia Relations
In the coming months, India and Russia are expected to continue strengthening their bilateral ties. With a focus on energy cooperation, defense cooperation, and cultural exchange, the two countries are likely to explore new areas of collaboration.
EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar's visit to Russia marked an important step forward in the India-Russia relationship. As both countries look to strengthen their strategic partnership, they will need to continue to address key issues such as global governance, terrorism, and energy cooperation.
India and Russia have a long history of cooperation, with ties dating back to the Soviet era. Since gaining independence in 1947, India has sought to diversify its foreign policy and security arrangements. The country has pursued a foreign policy that balances both regional and global interests.
The visit of EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar marked an important milestone in this journey. With a focus on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing key issues such as energy cooperation, defense cooperation, and global governance, the two countries are likely to continue exploring new areas of collaboration.