India, Russia Strengthen Ties Amidst Global Pressures

New Delhi: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks in New Delhi, focusing on defence and trade ties, as India navigates heavy US pressure to halt Russian oil purchases. Putin's visit, his first to India since the Ukraine war, aimed to boost bilateral cooperation in defence, energy and technology.

The two leaders discussed potential defence deals, including S-400 air defence systems and Su-57 fighter jets, and explored ways to increase trade, targeting $100 billion by 2030. Energy cooperation was also a key area, with Russia offering India discounted crude oil and discussing nuclear energy collaborations, including small modular reactors.

India and Russia are strengthening their partnership, with key outcomes including enhanced defence cooperation, where Russia will share technology and India will acquire advanced military equipment. In energy cooperation, Russia will continue to supply India with discounted crude oil, and both countries will explore nuclear energy collaborations. The two nations also aim to increase bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030, focusing on diversification and logistics strengthening

The visit highlights India's strategic autonomy and its efforts to maintain strong ties with Russia despite US pressure. The partnership between India and Russia is expected to have significant implications for global geopolitics, energy markets and defence cooperation.

(With inputs from AFP)