New Delhi: Ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India on December 4-5, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the discussions will primarily centre on economic cooperation rather than broader geopolitical issues involving Russia, India, and China.
MEA officials highlighted the significant growth in bilateral trade and economic ties between India and Russia in recent years. Key developments include agreements on skilled and semi-skilled manpower, which officials described as the “single-most important development” since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia.
Negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Eurasian countries have also begun, aiming to boost Indian exports in sectors such as pharma, marine, and consumer goods. Efforts are ongoing to facilitate rupee-ruble settlements and expand trade, including recent approvals for potato and pomegranate exports. India continues to import 3–4 million MT of fertilisers from Russia annually.
Officials emphasised that the annual summit provides a critical platform to increase Indian exports to Russia and deepen bilateral cooperation beyond trade. India is also expanding its diplomatic footprint in Russia, with new consulates planned in Kazan and Yekaterinburg.
The MEA addressed reports concerning Indians serving in the Russian Army, stating that those employed will be discharged and repatriated, while others already discharged will remain under regular monitoring.
