Ahead of India Visit, Putin Says Russia Aims for ‘New Level’ of Ties with New Delhi
Technological collaboration, defence deals, and nuclear energy are set to shape the agenda as President Vladimir Putin arrives for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit.
Russia, Dec 03 : Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Moscow intends to elevate its partnerships with India and China to a “qualitatively new level,” signalling a push for stronger technological and economic alignment. His remarks come ahead of his two-day visit to New Delhi for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit on December 4, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking at an investment forum in Moscow, Putin said Russia is refocusing on stable economic corridors and high technology collaborations with Asian partners as it counters Western sanctions.
“We aim to elevate cooperation with the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of India to a qualitatively new level by strengthening its technological component,” he said, according to ANI.
Putin added that while he holds a “substantive dialogue” with Chinese President Xi Jinping on economic matters, he hopes to deepen a similar channel with PM Modi, including discussions on expanding Indian exports to the Russian market.
Defence cooperation to dominate New Delhi agenda
The Kremlin has indicated that defence cooperation will be a major focus during Putin’s interactions in New Delhi. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said discussions may include India’s potential purchase of additional S-400 long-range air defence systems.
“Highly on the agenda and this could be discussed… Russian arms make up 36% of Indian armed forces, and hopefully this will continue,” Peskov said.
Moscow is also expected to push India’s possible acquisition of the Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter, which Peskov described as “the best plane in the world”. He said the aircraft will feature on the agenda.
Peskov further cited the success of the BrahMos missile programme as a model for future high-technology cooperation between the two countries.
Nuclear energy pact likely to be explored
A new agreement in the nuclear energy sector may also be discussed during the summit. Peskov noted that Russia will present proposals for small and flexible reactor technologies, highlighting Moscow’s experience in the field.
“There will be an offer for small reactors… Russia has real experience in producing small reactors,” he said, adding that both sides continue to value joint investments in atomic energy. He also referenced the longstanding collaboration at Kudankulam and expressed hope for its expansion.
Summit to review full spectrum of ties
Putin and PM Modi will meet on December 4–5 to review the full breadth of India–Russia strategic cooperation, including defence, energy, trade, space, and emerging technologies.
