New Delhi: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar said during bilateral discussions with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Monday that the India-Russia cooperation is unique and has remained remarkably steady and robust in a world of fast geopolitical upheavals.
On Sunday night, Lavrov and Russian Defense Minister Gen Sergey Shoigu landed in New Delhi for the first '2+2' talks with their Indian counterparts. Jaishankar and Lavrov held bilateral conversations ahead of the '2+2' dialogue. "The India-Russia alliance is one of a kind. We are acutely aware that, in a world of fast global upheaval, it has remained extraordinarily stable and robust," Jaishankar said in his opening remarks. "I would also like to use this opportunity to emphasise how pleased we are with our bilateral relations and the current status of our collaboration," he continued.
The two Russian ministers will join President Vladimir Putin in his summit meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day after the '2+2' talks. "The annual India-Russia summit is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for us." "Prime Minister Modi and President Putin have a strong trust and confidence relationship," Jaishankar added. "Due to the COVID-19 epidemic, the annual summit is being held after a two-year hiatus." We expect the meeting to produce some very substantial outcomes," Jaishankar remarked. At the summit, India and Russia are expected to sign a series of agreements to boost cooperation in important areas such as defence, trade and investment, energy, and technology.
Russian FM emphasises good ties with India Ahead of today's 2+2 format meet
Russian President Putin to discuss these issues with PM Modi in India on December 6