Russian President Vladimir Putin said it is “entirely natural” for India and Russia to enjoy strong economic ties. He spoke at a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Friday, December 5, after their summit talks.
He said trade between the two countries will continue to grow. He also confirmed that Russia is ready to maintain energy supplies to India. He made this comment as India faces pressure from the United States to cut down on oil purchases from Moscow.
Putin earlier assured Modi that Russia is ready to continue "uninterrupted shipments" of fuel to India, even as Washington pushes New Delhi to change its position.
Support for a Multipolar World Order
Putin spoke about global power shifts. He said both countries follow “independent foreign policies” and believe in a “multipolar” world order. His comments came at a time when India is dealing with strong US pressure over its energy trade with Russia.
He highlighted cooperation in important global groups.
"Russia and India pursue independent foreign policies and work together in BRICS and SCO for a more just and democratic multipolar world order. We are satisfied with our talks and confident that this visit will further strengthen our strategic partnership.”
Russia to Join Make in India Efforts
Putin also spoke about deeper industrial cooperation. He revealed that Russian companies will take part in India’s manufacturing plans.
“Russian enterprises will also participate in manufacturing under the Make in India program. Our cultural and educational exchanges continue to grow."
This shows that the relationship is not limited to oil and defence but is also expanding into production and knowledge exchange.
Nuclear Cooperation Remains a Core Focus
Putin confirmed that nuclear energy is a key part of the partnership between the two nations.
He said, “We are building the largest Indian nuclear power plant in India's Kudankulam. Two of six units are already connected to the grid, and four are under construction. Once fully operational, it will make a major contribution to India’s clean and affordable energy needs.”
This project plays an important role in India’s clean energy plan.
Putin also stressed Russia’s broad role in supporting India’s development.
"Russia is a reliable supplier of oil, gas, coal, and everything that is required for the development of India's energy," as per news agency AFP.
Visit Comes After US Tariff Move
The timing of this meeting is important. US President Donald Trump imposed 50 per cent tariffs on most Indian goods in August. He claimed India’s continued purchase of Russian oil was allegedly “funding Putin's war in Ukraine”.
India responded by stating that it has the sovereign right to trade according to its “national interest”. New Delhi made it clear that it will take decisions based on its own priorities.
Modi Highlights Growing Partnership
Prime Minister Modi thanked Putin for his strong support.
He praised his "unwavering commitment towards India", and said that "energy security has been a strong and important pillar of the India-Russia partnership".
He did not mention oil directly. However, he clearly acknowledged the importance of energy cooperation.
Modi also announced a long-term economic plan between the two countries.
"We have agreed on an economic cooperation program until 2030," Modi told Putin, after officials exchanged a raft of agreements spanning jobs, health, shipping, and chemicals. "This will ensure that our trade and investment are diversified, balanced, and sustainable," he added.