In a significant diplomatic announcement, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has confirmed that plans are actively underway for President Vladimir Putin to visit New Delhi this December. The revelation came during the recent 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), underscoring the high-level engagement between the two strategic partners.
Deepening Strategic Partnership on the Agenda
Lavrov highlighted that the upcoming visit will focus on a substantial bilateral agenda. The discussions are expected to cover a wide spectrum including trade, military cooperation, technological exchange, finance, and humanitarian efforts. Special emphasis will also be placed on collaboration in healthcare and cutting-edge high-tech sectors such as artificial intelligence.
The Russian Foreign Minister praised the strength of the relationship, noting it has been elevated to a "particularly privileged strategic partnership." He stressed that this bond operates independently of other geopolitical dynamics, including India's relations with the United States. Lavrov referenced the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin at the SCO summit in China as evidence of sustained high-level contact.
India's Sovereign Choices and Trade Relations
Addressing international pressure on India regarding its energy imports, Lavrov expressed full confidence in New Delhi's autonomy. He firmly stated that India is perfectly capable of making its own decisions in its trade relations with Russia, and that the economic partnership between the two nations is "not under threat." This was a clear reference to the context of US sanctions over India's purchase of Russian oil.
Lavrov also commended External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's diplomatic stance, which asserts India's right to choose its international partners and energy sources. He revealed plans for continued diplomatic exchanges, noting that Jaishankar will visit Russia this year, and he himself will travel to India.
Strong Backing for India's UNSC Ambitions
In a move of substantial political support, Lavrov reiterated Russia's endorsement of India's bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He explicitly stated, "Russia supports the application of Brazil and India for permanent seats," aligning with a growing chorus of international voices.
This endorsement comes alongside recent support from nations like Mauritius and Bhutan. Lavrov pointed to the outdated global balance of power from 80 years ago, advocating for UNSC reforms to make the body more democratic, representative, and effective. This call for inclusivity echoes broader discussions within forums like BRICS, which seek greater representation for developing nations from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
The announcement of President Putin's visit, coupled with unwavering support on key issues, signals a robust phase in India-Russia ties, set against a backdrop of a changing global order and India's rising strategic profile.
