Defense Minister Rajnath Singh concluded a significant three-day visit to Moscow, further solidifying the already robust India-Russia strategic partnership. His meetings, which included a high-level discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin, underscored the enduring friendship and commitment to bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
The meeting with President Putin was marked by warm sentiments and a reaffirmation of the strong bond between India and Russia. According to the Indian defense ministry, Singh conveyed India’s unwavering support for its Russian allies, stating, “Friendship between our countries is higher than the highest mountain and deeper than the deepest ocean.” He also expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and impeccable arrangements during his visit. Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov also participated in this significant meeting.
Beyond the diplomatic exchanges, Singh’s visit focused heavily on bolstering military-technical cooperation. He held a productive meeting concerning the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC M&MTC) with his Russian counterpart, Andrei Belousov. A key agenda item was the expedited delivery of the remaining two units of the advanced S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems, a crucial component of India’s defense modernization strategy. The urgency surrounding the S-400 delivery highlights the strategic importance of this weaponry for India’s national security.
Singh’s commitment to strengthening bilateral defense ties was evident in his subsequent remarks. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he stated, “Reviewing the full range of bilateral defence ties, we discussed ways to deepen cooperation between both the countries. We are committed to further strengthen India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.” The Indian Embassy in Russia echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the visit aims to further deepen defense cooperation in line with the established Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two nations.
The visit also encompassed other crucial events. Singh paid his respects by laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow, honoring the Soviet soldiers who perished during World War II. This gesture underscored the historical depth of the relationship between the two countries and the shared sacrifices made in the past. He also engaged with members of the Indian community in Russia, highlighting India’s impressive growth trajectory and commending the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora.
Singh’s visit culminated with the commissioning of the INS Tushil, an Indian Navy guided missile frigate built in Russia. This event, which took place in Kaliningrad, marks a significant enhancement of the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities, particularly in the strategically important Indian Ocean region, where China’s naval presence has grown in recent years. The INS Tushil’s commissioning symbolizes the tangible outcomes of the robust India-Russia defense cooperation, reinforcing India’s naval strength in a critical geopolitical zone.
Furthermore, Singh’s visit comes at a time when preparations are underway for a reciprocal visit by President Putin to India in early 2025, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This upcoming visit further underscores the depth and importance of the India-Russia relationship, which continues to evolve and deepen in the face of shifting global dynamics.
