Indo-Russian ties in defence has grown, unlike in economy
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s recent visit to Moscow has further strengthened India’s bilateral relations with Russia, especially in defence technology co-operation and energy security. The sustained dialogue on a wide range of issues concerning international developments, defence technology, and security co-operation is reflected in the strategic partnership that also encompasses scientific research and high-technology. Besides India and Russia have common stakes to combat terrorism in Afghanistan, Central Asian Republics, Chechnya and Kashmir to ensure their national security interests. Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee’s visit to Moscow last month set the agenda for this visit that is a routine annual summit between the two sides.
This prime ministerial visit with its agreement on Intellectual Property Rights adds a new dimension to the defence technology ties and transforms it from a buyer-seller relationship to facilitate technology transfer in terms of joint development. For instance, the Indo-Russian arrangement to jointly develop the Bhramos missile best symbolises the tremendous scope for technology transfer. Also New Delhi’s decision to invest in the Russian oil and gas sector only emphasises the energy security aspect in their bilateral ties. The two countries also decided to expand co-operation in civilian nuclear energy with Russia providing two 1000 MW reactors for the Koodankulam nuclear power plant.
The Indo-Russian Friendship and Cooperation Treaty, the Moscow Declaration on cooperation between pluralistic societies and the Delhi Declaration on strategic partnership is the foundation to augment bilateral cooperation in several spheres. While Russia has many strategic partners in the international community like India does, it needs to be stressed that New Delhi and Moscow are natural allies, whose friendship has withstood the test of time. Despite good political relations between India and Russia, the lack of corresponding economic engagement among them is glaring. Considering Russia is rapidly transforming into a market oriented economy, Indian businessmen have to take the initiative and make their presence felt there. The lack of a liberal visa regime, the absence of direct shipping routes and the limited direct flights to Russia account for the failure of trade ties. While New Delhi and Moscow have a win-win relationship with each other their trade ties need to improve towards which Russia needs to introduce a liberalised visa regime.
