Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov co-chaired the 21st session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) in Moscow. The meeting underscored the enduring strength of the India-Russia partnership, which both sides hailed as a “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”
Reaffirming Bilateral Ties
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the robust nature of India-Russia relations, emphasizing that the partnership has stood the test of time. He noted that recent high-level interactions, including two visits by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia in 2024, have further deepened these ties. Singh also reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening its domestic defence industry and invited greater participation from Russian industries in ‘Make in India’ initiatives aimed at fostering joint defence production.
“We are determined to expand the capabilities of our domestic defence sector and see immense potential for collaboration with Russian industries,” Singh said, reaffirming India’s strategic priorities. He also praised the successful cooperation between the two countries on multilateral platforms, including BRICS, G20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
Russian Perspective
Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov described India as a trusted and long-standing partner. “Our relationship is built on mutual respect and trust, strengthened by the close rapport between our leaders,” he remarked. Belousov referred to key bilateral meetings earlier this year, including those between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which contributed significantly to advancing the defence partnership.
He also lauded the strong military collaboration between the two nations within multilateral frameworks like the SCO and ADMM Plus. “I am confident that today’s discussions will further solidify our defence and security cooperation,” Belousov added.
Focus of Discussions
The dialogue covered a broad spectrum of military and technical cooperation, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to implementing agreements reached at the highest levels. The talks also addressed challenges posed by the evolving geopolitical landscape. Singh acknowledged the pressure on India to alter its stance but reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to deepen its partnership with Russia. “Despite external pressures, India is committed to strengthening ties with Russia,” Singh stated.
Ceremonial Welcome and Closing Protocol
The meeting began with a ceremonial welcome for the Indian delegation, featuring a Guard of Honour and a military orchestra. During the talks, both ministers signed the protocol of the 21st IRIGC-M&MTC, outlining ongoing and future areas of cooperation.
This session marked another milestone in the enduring India-Russia partnership, underscoring mutual resolve to strengthen collaboration in defence and beyond.
Rajnath Singh Meets Russian President Vladimir Putin to Discuss Bilateral Defence Cooperation
Raksha Mantti Shri @rajnathsingh called on Russian President Mr. Vladimir Putin at Kremlin in Moscow. pic.twitter.com/kWDcKuu7bP
— रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) December 10, 2024
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, conveying a message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During their discussions, the two leaders focused on various aspects of bilateral defence cooperation, highlighting the deep-rooted partnership between India and Russia.
Both leaders reaffirmed the immense potential of their relationship, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for achieving significant outcomes. Rajnath Singh underscored the enduring friendship between the two nations, stating, “The friendship between our countries is higher than the highest mountain and deeper than the deepest ocean.”
He also reiterated India’s unwavering support for Russia, expressing confidence that the partnership will continue to strengthen in the future. The meeting further cemented the strategic ties between the two nations, particularly in the defence sector, as both sides explored ways to enhance mutual cooperation.
Ravi Shankar
