By K S Tomar
Despite the United States and Western allies' efforts to isolate Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, nations like India have prioritized their national interests. India's $65 billion worth of crude oil imports from Russia have significantly supported the Russian economy amidst stringent US sanctions. This pragmatic approach underscores India's commitment to maintaining its independent foreign policy, balancing strategic ties with both Russia and the US.
India, while closely aligned with the US on many strategic fronts, has emerged as the second-largest importer of Russian crude oil after China. To reaffirm the historic ties between India and Russia, President Vladimir Putin awarded Prime Minister Narendra Modi the Order of St Andrew, Russia's highest civilian honor, at the Kremlin on July 9. This gesture symbolized Russia's appreciation for the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Predictably, the US State Department urged India to emphasize that any resolution to the Ukraine conflict must respect the UN charter, Ukraine's territorial integrity, and sovereignty. Conversely, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concerns over Modi's visit, emphasizing the need for solidarity against Russian aggression and hoping for India's support in upholding Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
PM Modi's visit to Moscow has been viewed through multiple lenses, each highlighting significant gains for India on strategic, economic, and diplomatic fronts. Strengthening ties with Russia serves as a counterbalance to China's aggressive posturing in the region. The visit underscored mutual interests in ensuring a multipolar world order, acting as a strategic buffer against unilateral actions by major powers like China.
Historically, Russia has been one of India's most reliable defense partners. The visit further consolidated this relationship, with discussions around the S-400 missile defense system and potential future collaborations in defense technology, enhancing India's military capabilities and contributing to regional stability.
Energy security is a cornerstone of India’s economic policy, and Russia plays a critical role with its vast oil and natural gas reserves. Modi's visit prioritized energy cooperation, likely discussing long-term supply agreements, investments in energy infrastructure, and nuclear energy projects. These agreements ensure a stable and diversified energy supply for India, crucial for sustaining its economic growth.
Despite historical ties, trade volumes between India and Russia have not reached their full potential. The visit aimed to explore new avenues for trade in sectors like pharmaceuticals, information technology, and agriculture. Reducing trade barriers and creating a conducive investment environment were likely discussed, promising mutual long-term benefits.
Modi's visit signifies a reaffirmation of traditional alliances in a complex global diplomatic landscape. As the US adopts an increasingly transactional approach, reinforcing ties with Russia offers India a balanced foreign policy. This revival of an old friendship signals India's independent and multi-aligned foreign policy stance.
The visit highlighted potential for closer collaboration in international forums like the United Nations, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Joint initiatives in areas like terrorism, climate change, and economic inequality can amplify the voices of both nations, advocating for reforms and greater equity in global governance.
India and Russia have a long history of collaboration in space and nuclear energy. Discussions likely included expanding this cooperation with potential joint ventures in space exploration and advancements in nuclear technology, fostering innovations that can propel both nations forward.
In the digital age, cybersecurity and the digital economy are critical. Modi’s visit probably explored collaboration in these fields, ensuring both nations can safeguard their digital infrastructures while harnessing the economic benefits of digital technologies.
In the final assessment, PM Modi's visit to Moscow can be seen as a multifaceted success for India. Strategically, it strengthens defense ties and counterbalances China. Economically, it promises enhanced energy security and trade. Diplomatically, it reaffirms traditional alliances and potential collaboration in global governance. These gains collectively enhance India’s global standing, contributing to its long-term strategic and economic objectives.
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(The writer is a political analyst and senior journalist based in Shimla.)
