In a major affirmation of growing diplomatic ties, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Thursday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s symbolic visit to Russia and confirmed that President Vladimir Putin will soon visit India, underscoring the strength of the India-Russia strategic partnership.
Speaking at the conference titled “Russia and India: Towards a New Agenda for Bilateral Relations”, co-hosted by the Embassy of India in Russia and the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), Lavrov emphasised the shared values and growing cooperation between the two nations.
Key Highlights:
Modi’s Visit Symbolic, Putin’s Visit Underway
Lavrov noted the significance of Modi choosing Russia for his first bilateral visit post re-election.
“It is symbolic that Prime Minister N. Modi made his first bilateral foreign visit after his re-election last year to Russia. Now it is our turn,” Lavrov stated.
He confirmed that Putin has accepted PM Modi’s invitation and preparations for the Russian president’s visit to India are currently in progress.
Shared Vision: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam & Global Cooperation
Lavrov highlighted that Russia aligns with India’s foreign policy philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family), praising India’s commitment to balanced global cooperation.
“We share the philosophy aimed at ensuring international cooperation for the benefit of all mankind,” Lavrov remarked, referencing collaboration in platforms like the UN, G20, BRICS, and SCO.
India’s Stance on Ukraine Commended
Lavrov appreciated PM Modi’s balanced approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, reiterating that Russia is also open to dialogue and a peaceful resolution.
“India, and personally Prime Minister N. Modi, consistently take a balanced position on the Ukrainian crisis,” he said.
Trade Milestone: $60 Billion in 2024
Lavrov proudly declared that India-Russia bilateral trade surpassed USD 60 billion in 2024, calling it the highest in modern history.
“Our relations have a solid material base. We are successfully overcoming the attempts of individual ill-wishers to prevent this,” he added.
Strategic & Political Alignment on Multipolar World Order
The Russian Foreign Minister reaffirmed that both nations share similar views on a multipolar global order.
“Moscow and New Delhi have close or even coinciding views on the emerging world order, based on development diversity and adherence to the UN Charter,” Lavrov said.
He also reiterated Russia and India’s joint advocacy for:
- Greater role for the Global South
- Cultural identity and sovereignty of nations
- Democratisation of international relations
Expert Diplomacy & People-to-People Engagement
Lavrov highlighted the role of “second track” diplomacy — involving think tanks and scholars — in bolstering mutual understanding and driving the future of India-Russia ties.
“Such platforms help outline ways for further development in new geopolitical conditions,” he concluded.
A Strategic Partnership at Its Peak
As Lavrov confirms the deepening of India-Russia ties, the emphasis on shared philosophy, growing trade, and mutual respect positions the partnership as a key pillar of multipolar diplomacy. With Putin’s visit on the horizon and $60 billion in trade, the India-Russia relationship continues to evolve with strength and strategic vision.
The Hindustan Herald Is Your Source For The Latest In Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Breaking News, And Other News. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, And LinkedIn To Receive Instantaneous Updates. Also Don’t Forget To Subscribe Our Telegram Channel @hindustanherald