Amritsar- BJP state spokesperson Prof. Sarchand Singh Khiala said that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s advocacy for early finalization of Moscow’s action plan for long-term cooperation with India proves that Indian diplomacy under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has not only proved to be more practical and visionary than all the previous ones, but it is also proof of India’s growing influence in the world. Russia’s clear refusal to create a new multipolar world order with China has shown a mirror to China in diplomacy.Prof. Sarchand Singh said that Russian President Putin’s vision and support for India at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025 is a recognition of India’s ability to shape global politics, in addition to the strong government in India under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India’s strong economic and military power, a self-reliant India and a comprehensive approach to development. India’s relations with Russia have long been good, Russia is a reliable strategic partner of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been awarded Russia’s highest civilian honor ‘Order of St. Andrew the Apostle’ for his significant role in strengthening this partnership.
Prof. Sarchand Singh said that Russia has always respected India’s national priorities. It has always supported India against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. India is committed to its strategic autonomy. It is able to finalize major projects on its own terms in the national interest, as is evident from India buying cheap fuel from Russia amid sanctions for the Russia-Ukraine war. Today, India is becoming self-reliant in every sector. It has established itself as a major global defense equipment manufacturer rather than a consumer of defense equipment.
Prof. Sarchand Singh said that Putin’s trade agenda is based on the possibility of further expanding the trade network with India. With agreements already in place on economic, trade, defense cooperation and nuclear energy, the two countries have made significant progress in these areas. India is already a major partner in Russia’s oil and gas imports. Now, it paves the way for Indian businesses to enter sectors like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, logistics, transport, infrastructure development, railway modernisation, information technology, artificial intelligence, shipbuilding, mining, tourism. Thus, the emphasis on increasing India-Russia cooperation is a huge opportunity for businessmen and entrepreneurs of both countries. Russia-India trade registered a growth of 21% in 2024, reached a record high of $70.6 billion.