Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri affirmed that India and Russia share a unique bond that has endured through changing times. Speaking at the Russian Federation's National Day celebrations in New Delhi on June 12, 2026, Misri emphasized the strength of the bilateral strategic partnership.
Strategic Partnership Growing Stronger
Misri stated, "India and Russia share a special bond that has withstood the test of time. Our special and privileged strategic partnership has grown stronger over the years and served both our countries well. We value this relationship and the sustained high level of bilateral exchanges testifies to this fact." He reiterated India's commitment to working closely with Russia to promote dialogue, strengthen multilateral cooperation, and address shared global challenges.
BRICS Summit in September 2026
Looking ahead, Misri expressed anticipation for Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to New Delhi for the BRICS Leaders Summit in September 2026. He noted that this summit would provide an important opportunity to advance common objectives and further strengthen the partnership. Misri highlighted the shared commitment of India and Russia to a multipolar, inclusive, and more representative international order, especially relevant amid ongoing conflicts, economic uncertainty, and geopolitical tensions.
"We deeply appreciate Russia's steadfast support in strengthening cooperation across a wide range of sectors and in advancing the BRICS agenda. The significant progress achieved across various BRICS tracks in recent years has laid a strong foundation for even deeper collaboration in the future," Misri added.
Anchor of Stability
Misri described India-Russia ties as an "anchor of stability" in a complex geopolitical landscape. He underscored efforts to bolster trade, defence, civil nuclear, and space partnerships. Leaders have set an ambitious target of increasing bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030. Misri noted, "Strengthening our economic partnership by deepening cooperation in traditional sectors while exploring new areas of collaboration is a shared priority for both sides."
He also mentioned satisfactory progress in defence cooperation, civil nuclear and space sectors, new connectivity initiatives to unlock economic potential, and expanding cooperation in the Arctic region.
Russian Envoy Congratulates PM Modi
Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on becoming India's longest-serving Prime Minister. On behalf of President Putin, the Russian government, and the Russian people, Alipov extended heartfelt congratulations, calling the achievement historic.
