India to Continue Receiving Oil Supply; Multiple India–Russia Agreements Signed; Russian Tourists to Get Free Visa

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Russian President Vladimir Putin is on a visit to India. On the second day of his trip, he held discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on trade and several other issues. Both leaders announced multiple bilateral agreements after the talks. President Putin also offered India small nuclear reactor technology.

Key Agreements Between India and Russia

India and Russia signed several agreements, with official documents exchanged by representatives from both sides. The agreements cover health, shipping, and taxation. President Putin also proposed providing small nuclear reactor technology to India. Prime Minister Modi announced a 30-day free visa for Russian tourists. During the joint press briefing, Putin assured India of uninterrupted oil supply.

Discussion on Temporary Labour Activities

The leaders also spoke about cooperation on migration and temporary labour activities of urban citizens in each other’s territories. During the briefing, Putin thanked President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi, and the people of India for the warm welcome. He said his conversation with PM Modi over dinner greatly helped strengthen their strategic partnership. Putin added that both leaders have maintained a close working dialogue and continue to supervise the India–Russia partnership.

Uninterrupted Fuel Shipments to India

Putin stated that bilateral trade saw a 12% rise last year, setting a new record. He said Russia is ready to continue uninterrupted fuel shipments to support India’s growing economy. He highlighted the flagship project of building India’s largest nuclear power plant at Kudankulam, where two of the six reactor units are already connected to the grid and four more are under construction. Once fully operational, the plant will significantly contribute to India’s energy needs by providing affordable and clean electricity.

Putin added that both countries are working together to develop new international transport and logistics routes, including the International North–South Transport Corridor connecting Russia and Belarus to the Indian Ocean. The expansion of this corridor, along with the Northern Sea Route, will open major bilateral trade opportunities.

PM Modi Shared List of Challenges

Putin said PM Modi shared a list of challenges that both governments must address. He noted that a Free Trade Agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union would help strengthen economic ties. Russia and India are moving toward using their national currencies for bilateral payments—96% of commercial payments are already settled this way. He also said the partnership in the energy sector, including oil, gas, coal, and other essential resources, remains strong.

Putin confirmed that both nations aim to raise annual bilateral trade volume to USD 100 billion and will continue prioritizing cooperation in security, economy, trade, and culture.

India–Russia Friendship Is Like the Polaris Star

PM Narendra Modi described India–Russia friendship as “steady like the North Star.” He condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and said India and Russia stand united against terrorism.

PM Modi expressed happiness over President Putin’s presence at the 23rd India–Russia Summit, noting that bilateral ties are passing through historic milestones. He recalled that 25 years ago, President Putin laid the foundation for the strategic partnership, and in 2010, the relationship was elevated to a “special and privileged strategic partnership.” Modi thanked Putin for his long-standing commitment and leadership in strengthening ties.

He added that despite global challenges over the past decades, the India–Russia friendship has remained strong. Both leaders discussed strengthening cooperation across all sectors, with economic collaboration a key priority. They agreed on an Economic Cooperation Program until 2030.

Boosting Trade, Energy, Technology, and Skilled Jobs

PM Modi said the India–Russia Business Forum will help strengthen trade and open new avenues for co-production and innovation. Both sides are working toward an early conclusion of an FTA with the Eurasian Economic Union. Cooperation in agriculture and fertilizers is vital for food security, and joint efforts are underway for urea production.

Modi announced collaboration for training Indian sailors in polar waters, creating new job opportunities for Indian youth. Joint shipbuilding efforts will strengthen Make in India by creating jobs, skills, and regional connectivity. Civil nuclear cooperation remains a major pillar of the partnership, supporting clean energy goals. Cooperation in critical minerals will strengthen global supply chains for clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and emerging industries.

Talks on Global and Regional Issues

PM Modi said both leaders discussed major international issues. On Ukraine, India has consistently supported peace and welcomes all efforts for a peaceful and lasting resolution. He reiterated India’s commitment to contributing to global peace efforts.

He added that India and Russia have long cooperated in the fight against terrorism. Whether it is the attack in Pahalgam or the tragic incident at Crocus City Hall, the roots of terrorism remain the same. India believes terrorism is an attack on humanity, and global unity is the strongest weapon against it.