In a significant diplomatic development, India’s foreign minister engaged with his Russian counterpart in Moscow on Wednesday, spotlighting the enduring economic ties between the two nations. This meeting comes at a crucial juncture, with Russia facing mounting international pressure over its involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. Despite this, India has steadfastly maintained a neutral stance, emphasizing its longstanding relationship with Russia and asserting its right to chart an independent course in an increasingly multipolar world.
India’s Neutral Stance on the Ukraine Conflict
Since the initiation of the Ukraine war in 2022, India has adopted a neutral stance on the conflict. This position is grounded in the nation’s historical ties with Russia, a relationship that extends beyond mere geopolitical considerations. India has insisted on its right to navigate a multipolar world independently, resisting external pressures and advocating for a diplomatic approach to conflict resolution.
Economic Ties and Strategic Importance
Russia has been a pivotal military supplier to India for an extended period. Despite international sanctions affecting Russian oil sales, India has emerged as one of the principal buyers of discounted Russian petroleum. This economic interdependence has strengthened the ties between the two nations, with India rapidly expanding its purchases to meet its energy needs.
Ambitious Goals: Building an Open and Fair International System
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei V. Lavrov emphasized that the relationship between Russia and India transcends mere bilateral ties. Both nations share a common interest in building an international political and economic system characterized by openness and fairness. This vision underscores the collaborative efforts to create a global order that benefits all nations.
Multilateralism and the Multipolar World Order
India’s Foreign Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, expressed his expectation to discuss the state of multilateralism and the establishment of a multipolar world order during the meeting. The focus on adapting bilateral cooperation to changing circumstances reflects India’s commitment to dynamic diplomatic engagements. Discussions are expected to encompass various spheres, including the international strategic situation and the resolution of conflicts and tensions.
India’s Strategic Balancing Act
Amid the Biden administration’s efforts to make supporting Russia costly, Indian officials have skillfully avoided open criticism. Instead, President Biden has sought to strengthen ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recognizing India as a potential ally in countering China’s growing economic and military influence. This diplomatic courtship has endured, even in the face of accusations against Indian officials of plotting the assassination of an American Sikh activist in November.
Comprehensive Diplomatic Visit
Mr. Jaishankar’s meeting with Mr. Lavrov is part of a five-day visit to Russia, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the two countries’ relationship. The discussions are expected to cover a wide range of topics, including cooperation on nuclear power projects, trade, civil aviation, and defense. These deliberations underscore the depth and complexity of the diplomatic ties between India and Russia.
Career Diplomat’s Perspective
Mr. Jaishankar, a seasoned diplomat and author, has provided insights into India’s foreign policy under Prime Minister Modi. He emphasized the enduring nature of the close relationship between India and Russia, particularly in defense, nuclear, and space collaborations. Such collaborations, he noted, are typically reserved for countries with a high degree of mutual trust.
Signs of Strain
Despite the longstanding ties, there are indications of strain in the India-Russia relationship. Indian officials express concerns that Russia’s pariah status may push Moscow closer to China. The three nations—India, Russia, and China—are increasingly positioning themselves as leaders and models for developing nations globally, creating potential competitive dynamics.
Strategic Concerns and Ongoing Cooperation
Notably, India has chosen to skip the traditional in-person summit meeting with Russian President Vladimir V. Putin for the second consecutive year. Happymon Jacob, an expert on Indian foreign policy, highlights that, apart from increased purchases of Russian oil, the relationship has experienced some distance since the Ukraine invasion. Nevertheless, India remains reliant on Russia, especially in the critical energy and defense sectors.
Continued Reliance on Russia
Mr. Jacob points out that Russia remains the sole provider of nuclear reactors to India, despite India signing a nuclear deal with the United States in 2008. During Mr. Jaishankar’s recent visit, India and Russia reached an agreement on the construction of future power-generating units at the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in southern India, emphasizing the ongoing cooperation between the two nations.
Currently, the India-Russia diplomatic relationship stands at a crossroads, navigating a complex global landscape. India’s commitment to maintaining a neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict, coupled with its efforts to balance regional dynamics, underscores the challenges and opportunities in this enduring partnership. The ongoing diplomatic visit and discussions between the foreign ministers signify the depth and resilience of the ties, as both nations strive to adapt to changing geopolitical realities while preserving the core tenets of their relationship.