New Delhi: India and Russia exchanged sixteen agreements during the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit in New Delhi.
These agreements span defence, trade, economy, healthcare, academics, culture and media. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed a joint press briefing after their meeting.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
Modi expressed confidence that the longstanding friendship between the two countries will help them deal with global challenges. He said the trust shared by both sides continues to strengthen their future cooperation. He highlighted that India and Russia have stood together against terrorism and described terrorism as a direct attack on humanity. He stressed that collective global action remains the most powerful response to terrorism.
Progress on Trade and Tourism
The Prime Minister said both sides are working to finalize a Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union at the earliest. To boost people-to-people ties, India will soon launch a free 30-day e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian travellers. Modi also welcomed Russia’s decision to join the International Big Cat Alliance under a framework agreement.
Security Cooperation Reaffirmed
A joint statement released after the summit reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to fight terrorism, extremism, and organized crime. The leaders pledged to counter terrorist financing, cross-border terrorism, and safe havens. They condemned the recent attacks in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir and at Crocus City Hall in Russia. Both sides also supported collective efforts against UN-listed terror groups, including Al Qaeda and ISIS.
Promoting Business and Economic Growth
Modi and Putin also co-chaired the India-Russia Business Forum. Addressing business leaders, Modi said India is moving towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy by following a focused agenda of reform and growth.
