Proud to have stood with India: Russia ahead of Putin’s visit
As the world waits with bated breath for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India on December 4 and 5, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has expressed his country’s admiration for the longstanding relationship with India. In a statement that underscores the deepening ties between the two nations, Peskov said, “We are proud to have been shoulder to shoulder next to our Indian friends during their historic growth.” This sentiment echoes the strong bond that has been forged between Russia and India over the years, with cooperation in various sectors, including defence, energy, and trade.
Peskov’s comments come at a time when India is poised to become a major player on the global stage, with its economy expected to surpass that of many developed nations in the coming years. Russia, which has been a trusted ally of India since the Cold War era, has been a key partner in the country’s growth story. The two nations have collaborated on numerous projects, including the development of the BrahMos missile, a supersonic cruise missile that has been jointly developed by India and Russia.
The BrahMos missile project is a shining example of the strategic partnership between India and Russia. The missile, which has been inducted into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, has a range of over 290 km and can be launched from land, sea, and air platforms. The project has not only enhanced India’s defence capabilities but has also generated significant revenue for both countries through exports. The success of the BrahMos project has paved the way for further cooperation in the defence sector, with India and Russia exploring opportunities for joint development of other military equipment, including submarines and fighter jets.
Peskov’s statement also highlighted the “bright future” that lies ahead for the strategic partnership between India and Russia. With both countries facing common challenges, including terrorism and regional instability, the need for cooperation has never been more pressing. Russia has been a vocal supporter of India’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, and the two nations have worked together to address global issues, such as climate change and nuclear non-proliferation.
The upcoming visit of President Putin to India is expected to further strengthen the ties between the two nations. The visit, which will take place on December 4 and 5, will see the signing of several key agreements, including a deal for the supply of Russian-made S-400 air defence systems to India. The S-400 system, which is considered one of the most advanced air defence systems in the world, will significantly enhance India’s defence capabilities and provide a major boost to its national security.
In addition to defence cooperation, the visit is also expected to focus on trade and economic ties between the two nations. India and Russia have set a target of increasing bilateral trade to $30 billion by 2025, and the visit is expected to see the signing of several agreements in areas such as energy, pharmaceuticals, and IT. Russia has also expressed interest in investing in India’s infrastructure sector, including roads, railways, and ports.
As the world becomes increasingly multipolar, the relationship between India and Russia is expected to play a major role in shaping global events. With both countries committed to a rules-based international order, their partnership has the potential to promote stability and security in the region. As Peskov said, “We are proud to have stood with India during their historic growth,” and it is clear that Russia is committed to continuing its support for India’s rise as a global power.
In conclusion, the upcoming visit of President Putin to India is a significant event that is expected to further strengthen the ties between the two nations. With cooperation in areas such as defence, trade, and energy, the partnership between India and Russia has the potential to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. As the world looks to the future, it is clear that the relationship between India and Russia will play a major role in shaping global events.
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