Excellencies, distinguished delegates and dear friends, Good Morning and Dobre Utro !!
It gives me great pleasure to address the Conference "India and Russia: Towards a New Bilateral Agenda”. I commend the efforts of the Russian International Affairs Council and our Embassy in Moscow, for the second consecutive edition of this initiative. I would also like to extend my greetings to Foreign Minister Lavrov who will be addressing it as well.
Friends,
India and Russia share a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership rooted in trust and mutual respect. Over decades, our mutually beneficial cooperation has advanced regional and global peace, stability and progress. In today’s evolving geo political dynamics, our engagement continues to deepen driven by frequent high level exchanges. The last visit of President Putin to India in December 2025 broke new ground covering diverse and novel areas, including mobility of skilled professionals; health & food safety; maritime cooperation; fertilizers; Customs and Commerce; academic and media cooperation.
Both sides are committed to increasing the present annual trade from USD 68.7 billion to USD 100 billion by 2030 in a balanced and sustainable manner. To this effect, we must continue efforts to conclude India – EAEU FTA, address non-tariff barriers and regulatory impediments, and utilise skilled Indian workforce.
Friends,
Russia is our foremost partner in civil nuclear energy and the Kudankulum Nuclear Project is a stellar example. As India aims to increase its Nuclear energy generation capacity to 100 Gigawatt by 2047, I am confident that it will find a trusted and reliable partner in Russia for peaceful uses of Nuclear Energy.
Our people to people ties continue to grow based on our shared appreciation for art, Yoga, Ayurveda and culture. The exposition of Sacred Relics of Shakyamuni Buddha from India, in Kalmykia last year, is a testament to our close cultural connect. I am confident that our new Consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg will further strengthen our economic, cultural and social bonds.
Friends,
The evolving multipolar order necessitates greater cooperation including through BRICS, SCO, G20 and the UN. India, during its BRICS Chairmanship with a ‘humanity first’ and a ‘people-centric’ approach, looks forward to closely working with Russia to address shared challenges in a balanced and inclusive manner.
In conclusion, let me reiterate our steadfast commitment to strengthening our long – standing partnership and cherished friendship.
I wish the conference every success.
Thank you. Spasiba !!
New Delhi
March 23, 2026