Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a significant diplomatic engagement, has lauded the enduring partnership between India and Russia, describing it as a guiding "North Star" amidst a rapidly evolving global landscape. The statement came during a joint press conference with Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi on Friday.
A Partnership Forged Over Decades
Reflecting on the long-standing bond, PM Modi highlighted the pivotal moment in 2010 when the bilateral relationship was formally elevated to the status of a Special Privileged Strategic Partnership. He credited President Putin's leadership and vision over the past twenty-five years for nurturing and strengthening this crucial alliance. "His leadership, under all circumstances, has elevated our ties to new heights," Modi stated, expressing his "heartfelt gratitude" to his friend, President Putin, for his "deep friendship and unwavering commitment to India."
Charting the Economic Future: The 2030 Roadmap
Moving beyond strategic diplomacy, the leaders laid down a concrete economic blueprint for the future. Prime Minister Modi emphasized that enhancing economic cooperation is a top priority for both nations. To achieve this, India and Russia have mutually agreed on a comprehensive economic cooperation program that will extend until the year 2030. This long-term framework is expected to provide a structured pathway for boosting trade, investment, and collaborative projects across various sectors over the next six years.
Steadfast Ties in a Changing World Order
The characterization of the relationship as a "North Star" underscores its perceived stability and reliability. In a world order marked by significant geopolitical shifts and uncertainties, New Delhi and Moscow have signaled their intent to maintain and deepen this time-tested partnership. The agreement on the 2030 economic program translates this strategic intent into a tangible action plan, aiming to inject new momentum into the bilateral economic engagement while the foundational strategic trust remains firmly in place.
The announcements reinforce the unique and resilient nature of the India-Russia relationship, which continues to be a cornerstone of India's foreign policy, balancing its strategic autonomy with evolving global dynamics.
