August 21, 2025: India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, described India’s relationship with Russia as one of the most consistent and enduring global partnerships since the Second World War. During his visit to Moscow, he highlighted the long-standing nature of the bilateral ties, which have continued to strengthen despite global geopolitical shifts.
Dr. Jaishankar co-chaired the 26th India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Cultural Cooperation alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Both leaders discussed initiatives to enhance collaboration across critical sectors, including defense, energy, technology, and cultural exchange. Lavrov referred to the partnership as “strategically special,” acknowledging the decades-long cooperation between the two nations.
Defense and energy cooperation remain key pillars of the relationship. India continues to procure advanced defense equipment from Russia, which supports its military readiness. In the energy sector, India imports Russian crude oil to meet its domestic consumption needs, while contributing to the economic stability of its partner country.
Addressing recent criticism from the United States regarding these oil imports, Dr. Jaishankar clarified that India is not the largest buyer of Russian crude, with countries such as China and the European Union importing higher volumes. He questioned the U.S. position, highlighting that India also purchases oil from America, and emphasized that India’s trade decisions are driven by its own national interests.
Dr. Jaishankar underlined India’s commitment to strategic autonomy and a multipolar global order. He stressed that the country’s foreign policy is guided by national priorities, aiming to maintain balanced relations with multiple countries while safeguarding sovereignty.
The visit reinforced the resilience of India-Russia relations, with both sides pledging to deepen cooperation in sectors of mutual interest. Analysts say such engagement strengthens regional stability and supports technological, economic, and defense advancements for both nations.
