Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced that Russia is developing a “privileged strategic partnership” with India, while also expanding ties with other nations like China and Iran. Lavrov highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation among CIS member states, reiterating Russia’s focus on strengthening relationships with global partners. President Putin is expected to visit India this year, reinforcing the strategic engagement between the two countries.
On Monday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced that Russia is fostering a “privileged strategic partnership” with India. He highlighted that Russia aims to strengthen ties with various countries, notably China, India, Iran, North Korea, and states of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), as reported by TASS. “We prioritize boosting ties with the majority of global states,” Lavrov stated during his speech at the Alexander Gorchakov Public Diplomacy Fund meeting.
Lavrov emphasized the unprecedented level of mutual trust in Russia’s relations with China, while specifically noting the advancements in the strategic partnership with India. Additionally, he remarked on significant progress in enriching relations with Iran and North Korea. He mentioned efforts to bolster cooperation among CIS member states, particularly through the Commonwealth, the Collective Security Treaty Organization, and the Eurasian Economic Union.
In a congratulatory letter to Indian leaders on the occasion of India’s 76th Republic Day, President Vladimir Putin reiterated that the Russian-Indian relationship is characterized by a “special and privileged strategic partnership.” Putin is expected to visit India later this year as part of the ongoing framework for annual engagements between the two nations.
The two leaders, Modi and Putin, maintain regular communication, including phone calls every few months, and they often meet at international events. In July, Prime Minister Modi participated in the 22nd Russia-India summit in Moscow and later attended the BRICS summit in Kazan, underscoring the strong diplomatic ties between the nations.
In conclusion, Russia is actively enhancing its strategic partnership with India, characterized as a “privileged strategic partnership” by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. The commitment to strengthen ties extends to several nations, including China, Iran, and North Korea, marking a significant shift in global diplomacy. Regular communications between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi further solidify this crucial international relationship.
Original Source: www.business-standard.com
