NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin at Hyderabad House for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, announcing a landmark Economic Cooperation Programme 2030 aimed at significantly expanding bilateral trade, investment, and technological collaboration.
Speaking at the joint press statement, Modi described the India–Russia relationship as a “dhruv tara” (Polaris star) that has endured global geopolitical shifts for over eight decades.
He praised President Putin’s role in strengthening the partnership, recalling that Russia laid the foundation of the Strategic Partnership 25 years ago, which evolved into the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership in 2010.
“These relations, based on mutual respect and deep trust, have stood the test of time,” Modi said, expressing gratitude for Putin’s “deep friendship and unwavering commitment.”
Economic Roadmap to 2030
The two leaders finalized an Economic Cooperation Programme till 2030, which aims to diversify and balance bilateral trade, strengthen industrial ties, and unlock new sectors of growth including agriculture, fertilizers, energy, shipbuilding, critical minerals, and high-tech innovation.
Modi said the upcoming India–Russia Business Forum would boost exports, co-production and co-innovation opportunities. Both sides are also pushing for early completion of the India–Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
He highlighted new joint efforts in fertilizer manufacturing, calling them crucial for Indian farmers and food security.
Connectivity, Arctic Cooperation, and Make in India
Modi underlined connectivity as a top priority with acceleration of:
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INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor)
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Northern Sea Route
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Chennai–Vladivostok maritime corridor
India and Russia will start cooperation on training Indian seafarers for polar waters navigation, creating new employment avenues. Collaboration in shipbuilding, Modi said, will strongly support Make in India, job creation and regional connectivity.
Energy and Critical Minerals
Calling energy security a longstanding pillar of the relationship, Modi reaffirmed continued cooperation in civil nuclear energy and expanded joint plans around critical minerals, essential for clean energy and high-tech manufacturing.
People-to-People Ties and Visa Measures
Modi announced that India will soon introduce:
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Free 30-day e-tourist visa for Russian citizens
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30-day group tourist visa
Two new Indian consulates in Russia and agreements on manpower mobility, vocational training and youth exchanges were also finalized.
Global and Regional Issues
Reiterating India’s neutrality and commitment to peace on the Ukraine conflict, Modi said:
“India has supported peace since the beginning. We welcome all efforts towards a peaceful and lasting resolution.”
He also reaffirmed strong joint resolve against terrorism, referencing the Pahalgam attack in India and the Crocus City Hall massacre in Russia.
“Terrorism is a direct attack on humanity, and global unity is our greatest strength,” he said.
The leaders emphasized close coordination on multilateral platforms including UN, G20, BRICS and SCO.
‘Friendship that strengthens us against global challenges’
Concluding his remarks, Modi said:
“I am confident our friendship will empower us to face global challenges and enrich our shared future.”
President Putin is in India for a two-day official visit and will participate in several bilateral engagements.
