Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a transformative vision for India-Russia economic ties during the India-Russia Business Forum on December 5, 2025. Standing alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin, Modi positioned India as the world's next hub of skilled talent and proposed building a new strategic economic axis between the two nations.
A Blueprint for Comprehensive Partnership
Modi laid out an extensive roadmap for collaboration, moving beyond traditional sectors. He called for joint efforts in advanced manufacturing, electric vehicle technology, and pharmaceutical production. The Prime Minister also emphasized strengthening ties in textiles, building robust logistics networks, and pursuing peaceful nuclear collaboration.
A significant focus was placed on establishing digital trade corridors to facilitate seamless commerce. Modi reaffirmed the ambitious bilateral trade target of exceeding $100 billion and expressed confidence in achieving this goal ahead of the original schedule.
Boosting Mobility and Reaffirming Leadership
To enhance people-to-people connectivity, the Prime Minister unveiled new decisions regarding tourist visas, aimed at simplifying travel and boosting mobility between the two countries. His core message was unequivocal: India is prepared to build, create, and innovate on a global scale.
The forum served as a platform to champion the "Make in India, Make for the World" mission, inviting Russia to be a key partner in this endeavor. Modi's pitch framed the partnership not just as bilateral but as one with the capacity to shape global economic dynamics.
Strategic Context and Global Implications
The high-profile forum and Modi's direct appeal underscore a deliberate move to deepen the special and privileged strategic partnership between New Delhi and Moscow. This push for a new economic axis comes at a time of significant global realignments and highlights India's confidence in its economic trajectory and human capital.
By declaring India as the "emerging skilled capital of the world," Modi highlighted the country's demographic dividend and technically proficient workforce as foundational pillars for future-oriented collaboration with Russia. The proposed axis is envisioned to leverage Russian resources and Indian innovation and skill to create a formidable economic force.
