“Whenever one hears the word Russia, the first word that comes to the mind of every Indian is India, the companion of happiness and sorrow.” This is how Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described India-Russia relations. Modi’s visit to Russia began on July 8, 2024, when he arrived in Moscow to attend the 22nd annual India-Russia summit. During his visit, Modi aimed to promote peace and strengthen bilateral relations, which culminated in the signing of nine agreements. These agreements covered a range of areas, including defense, energy, and trade, highlighting the multifaceted cooperation between the two countries.
Modi’s choice of Russia, rather than a neighboring country, as the venue for his inaugural bilateral visit is a departure from tradition. It signals a change in India’s diplomatic approach and reflects a change in India’s style and methods. Modi’s visit to Russia is significant in terms of message and timing. In particular, the visit comes amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, on which India has maintained a neutral stance. India abstained on the UN resolution condemning Russia’s actions, but urged Russia to end the war. In his meeting with Putin, Modi made it clear that “there is no solution on the battlefield” and called for a diplomatic end to the war.
The timing of the visit coincides with Modi’s attendance at the G-7 summit in Italy, where he interacted with Ukrainian President Zelensky and other leaders. The visit coincides with the NATO meeting in Washington, D.C., marking the alliance’s 75th anniversary. Modi’s visit has been criticized, notably by the Ukrainian president, who called it a “huge disappointment.” The Indian prime minister will be aware that his decision to meet Putin now will not please Western leaders, especially given the ongoing NATO summit. The Kremlin was quick to point out that “the West is jealous.” Jealous or not, the West, especially the United States, will be watching the visit closely.
Modi also made a subtle critique of the current “influence-based world order” and argued for India’s role in the emerging multipolar world. He argued that today’s world requires “jointness rather than influence,” emphasizing the need for a cooperative approach rather than a dominance-based one.
The visit underscores the continued importance of Russia as a key partner and friend to India. It dispels speculation that India-Russia relations are weakening as India’s dependence on Russia decreases and its ties with the United States and the West strengthen. Despite the closeness of India-US relations in recent years, the India-Russia relationship remains a “special and privileged strategic partnership.” This dynamic reflects India’s ability to navigate its relations with the United States and Russia, and reflects India’s strategic autonomy. It signals that India will continue to pursue deeper ties with the West, but not at the cost of having to choose sides.
The India-Russia relationship is historic, but not merely sentimental and ceremonial. In the current geopolitical shift where Russia is increasingly moving closer to China, it is important for India to appreciate its “unlimited” partnership. The recent meeting between President Putin and President Xi Jinping characterized their relationship as “the best in history” and emphasized the importance of Russia-China intimacy to India. India wants to ensure that Beijing does not become a factor in undermining its relations with Russia. India hopes that Russia’s influence along India’s borders can be leveraged in the event of Chinese adventurism, as Russia is an important geopolitical hedge for India in the current world order. The “China factor” is therefore a key driver for India’s close alliance and cooperation with Russia. Conversely, its relationship with India provides Russia with strategic maneuverability. Russia recognizes that increasing dependence on China may not be aligned with its broader interests, and therefore maintaining a strong relationship with India is a critical component of its foreign policy.
In a rapidly changing global context, India’s ability to pursue its own national interests while maintaining ties with the West and Russia is a testament to its strategic autonomy and multi-alliance approach. Modi’s engagement with Putin has made it clear that Russia remains India’s priority and that the partnership is unlikely to change in the near future.
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