India-Russia Sign Key Agreements; Modi-Putin Summit Highlights Five Major Takeaways

New Delhi: India and Russia on Thursday signed agreements to facilitate migration and easier mobility between the two nations. Additional pacts were inked to strengthen cooperation in healthcare and food security, as well as in port and shipping sectors. The agreements were signed following high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

During a joint press briefing after the summit, Prime Minister Modi outlined several key aspects of the India–Russia partnership:

1. Shipbuilding and Regional Connectivity: Modi described deep cooperation in shipbuilding as a vital element of the Make in India initiative, highlighting its potential to create jobs, enhance skills, and boost regional connectivity.
2. Economic Collaboration: Both nations signed the Vision 2030 document to further economic cooperation. Modi stated that he and President Putin would participate in the India–Russia Business Forum, which aims to open new avenues for trade, co-production, and co-innovation. Steps are also being taken to progress towards a free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU).
3. Stable Bilateral Relations: Modi emphasized that despite global fluctuations over the past eight decades, India–Russia friendship has remained as steadfast as the North Star, built on mutual respect and trust. The discussions addressed various initiatives to further strengthen this enduring partnership.
4. Strategic Ties and Historical Context: Welcoming President Putin, Modi recalled that the foundation of the strategic partnership was laid 25 years ago and expressed satisfaction over the continuing high-level engagement through the 23rd India–Russia bilateral summit.
5. Special Privileged Strategic Partnership: Modi noted that in 2010, the relationship was elevated to a “Special Privileged Strategic Partnership”, with President Putin’s leadership and vision continuously nurturing bilateral ties. Modi expressed gratitude for Putin’s steadfast friendship and unwavering dedication to India over the past 25 years.

The summit underscored the comprehensive and multifaceted nature of the India–Russia relationship, spanning energy security, critical minerals, high-tech manufacturing, defense, healthcare, and transportation, setting the stage for continued collaboration across sectors in the years ahead.