External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar held discussions with his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, during a five-day visit to Moscow. The talks, held at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Reception House, covered various topics, including the international strategic situation, conflicts, and tensions.
Jaishankar highlighted the robust nature of the Indo-Russian relationship and expressed satisfaction with the frequency of high-level engagements. “Our relationship has been very strong and steady. This year alone, we have met six times, and this is our seventh meeting,” he said, emphasizing the active involvement of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin in maintaining close contact.
The discussions focused on the strong Russian participation anticipated at the Vibrant Gujarat meeting scheduled for January. Jaishankar underscored the importance of this collaboration, highlighting the special and privileged strategic partnership between the two nations.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the start of bilateral talks in a social media post, stating, “Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov greets Foreign Minister of India Dr. S Jaishankar at the Russian MFA Reception House in Moscow. The bilateral talks have commenced.”
During the meeting, Jaishankar highlighted the consistency of the relationship, stating, “It is always good to be in Moscow. I agree with you that our relationship has been very strong and steady. I think we have lived up to the responsibilities of strong and strategic partnership.”
Earlier, the Russian Embassy in India outlined the meeting’s agenda, focusing on current and future areas of bilateral cooperation, as well as discussing the schedule of upcoming contacts. The joint commitment to multipolarity and upholding political and economic sovereignty, particularly in the face of neocolonial practices, was emphasized.
As part of his four-day visit to Russia from December 25-29, Jaishankar expressed enthusiasm about his engagements and the opportunity to further strengthen ties between India and Russia. The discussions in Moscow reflect the commitment of both nations to fostering a positive agenda and constructive interstate dialogue in the ever-evolving global landscape.