Narendra Modi on Russia Relations
Narendra Modi maintains a highly positive and committed stance on Russia Relations, repeatedly describing Russia as an "all-weather friend" and a "trusted ally" of India. He has often highlighted that the relationship is built on a strong foundation of mutual trust and respect, asserting that it has grown stronger through challenges over decades. This deep connection is framed as a constant in a rapidly changing world and a fundamental asset to India's foreign policy.
Under his tenure, Modi has actively worked to deepen this "special and privileged strategic partnership" across military, multilateral, and economic spheres. Defense cooperation, including the procurement of major equipment like the S-400 missile system, remains the most important pillar of the bilateral ties, with Russia being a key source of defense technology.
Despite international complexities, such as the conflict in Ukraine and pressure from Western nations, Modi has consistently prioritized maintaining open channels and advancing the partnership. He has stressed the need for dialogue and diplomacy regarding the Ukraine war while ensuring India's strategic autonomy, which includes reliance on Russia for defense and energy needs.
Modi has personally appreciated Vladimir Putin's leadership in steering the relationship to greater heights. Joint agreements across various sectors, including defense and energy, continue to be signed during annual summits, demonstrating a sustained commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and co-production efforts under the 'Make in India' programme.
Context
The relationship with Russia is a critical component of Narendra Modi's overarching foreign policy strategy, which he defines as "multi-alignment" and ensuring strategic autonomy for India. Russia serves as a vital counterbalancing force and a key supplier of defense equipment, which prevents India from becoming overly dependent on any single power bloc, such as the United States.
Historically, the Indo-Soviet relationship laid the foundation for much of India's indigenous defense and industrial base. Modi's approach seeks to honor this legacy while navigating a contemporary geopolitical landscape marked by US sanctions and the evolving role of China.
Actions Taken
- Defense ProcurementSigned a $5 billion contract to procure five S-400 Triumf air defence systems from Moscow, despite the looming threat of US sanctions under CAATSA.
- Defense Technology TransferAgreed to extend military technical cooperation for the next decade and coordinate on the local production of over 600,000 AK-203 assault rifles.
- High Level DiplomacyHeld the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit with President Putin, reaffirming the commitment to strengthening their partnership across military, multilateral, and economic areas, and agreeing to further joint R&D in defense.
- Connectivity and Consular ExpansionAnnounced plans to open two new consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg to enhance travel and trade, and mentioned working on the Chennai-Vladivostok Eastern Maritime Corridor.
Key Quotes
“If you ask any of the more than one billion people living in India who our country's greatest friend is, everyone knows it's Russia. India's ties with Russia are incomparable. Since 1947, India-Russia relations have been the only constant in a rapidly changing world. They have stood the test of time and grown stronger. The resilience of our relationship is based on the principles of equality, trust, and mutual benefit.”
“On hearing the word Russia, the first word that comes to the mind of every Indian is India's 'sukh-dukh ka saathi' (all-weather friend) and a trusted ally.”
“No matter how low the temperature dips below zero degrees during the Russian winter, India-Russia friendship has always remained in 'plus' and been full of warmth. This relationship is built on the strong foundation of mutual trust and mutual respect.”
Criticism
India is currently walking a tightrope, as its refusal to condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine puts it at odds with Western allies while maintaining a strong bilateral relationship with Moscow remains necessary for defense and energy.
Sources5
Modi in Moscow: PM calls Russia 'all-weather friend' and 'trusted ally'; hails Putin's leadership
India signs S-400 deal with Russia sidestepping US opposition
PM Modi addresses Indian community in Moscow, calls Russia “India's trusted friend, partner in happiness and sorrow”
India, Russia ink 16 agreements in areas of defence, trade, economy & healthcare
India-Russia Ties Are Rock Solid but Challenging and Risky
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.