Russian Envoy Spotlights Solid Bilateral Ties, Consistency As Indian Polls Approach

The lasting bond between India and Russia serves as a resilient thread in the intricate fabric of global diplomacy, navigating through the turbulent currents of international affairs.

A recent comment by India's top diplomat, S. Jaishankar, that the India-Russia alliance is the "only constant in world politics" over the past six decades has strongly resonated in international capitals, especially within the corridors of Washington.

Simultaneously, this year is witnessing a crescendo of electoral activities, culminating in one of the most consequential periods in recent history. Nearly half of the global population resides in nations on the verge of engaging in electoral processes.

Russian-Indian Strategic Link in Global Stability: Championing Fair & Balanced Multipolarity

“The historically coherent Russia-India strategic connection may play an important stabilising role globally and our common priority is to promote a just and equal multipolarity based on the principles of the UN Charter and international law and to support the growing voice of Asia, Africa and Latin America in favour of democratisation of global governance”, Russian Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov told Sputnik India.

Looking ahead to 2024, the envoy envisions “high-level dialogues setting the stage for future mutually beneficial engagements and a multifaceted strategic partnership between India and Russia”.

“After the accession of new members to BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in 2023, it is important to concentrate on the consolidation of both structures to make them more effective and responsive to the changing realities and the needs of our peoples”, the Ambassador noted.

Russian Ambassador to the Republic of India, Denis Alipov

Unparalleled Defence Cooperation: Overcoming Challenges in India-Russia Relations

Alipov contends that despite the obstacles faced in India-Russia Defence Cooperation, it "remains unparalleled, involving joint ventures and technological collaborations that are aligned with the principles of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat,' or the Make in India initiatives."

"As a primary arms supplier to India – Russia – unlike others, does not bind this cooperation with political demands and offers the fullest possible transfer of cutting-edge technologies,” he stated.

“The supersonic cruise missiles 'BrahMos' joint venture, the licensed production of T-90 tanks, Su-30MKI fighters, AK-203 assault rifles as well as other armaments and components, set it as a model to emulate”, the Ambassador contended.

Brahmos missile

Election Optimism: Positive Outlook on India-Russia Bilateral Ties

Discussing the forthcoming elections in India and Russia, Alipov emphasised that he "does not foresee any major impact on our bilateral relations except for the better. The rationale behind this optimistic outlook is straightforward—bilateral relations hold nationwide consensus and a priority status in both countries, as they fully correspond to our national interests”.

Alipov expressed confidence in “the democratic process in India, which is widely acknowledged in Russia”, and assured that “Russia invariably respects the choice of the friendly Indian people”.

Enhancing Economic Bonds: Transport Corridors & Free Trade Agreement

Furthermore, the Ambassador emphasised that “the implementation of key transport corridors and maritime routes, including the International North-South Transport Corridor, Vladivostok – Chennai Maritime Sea Route, and the Northern Sea Route, is expected to enhance economic competitiveness and interconnectivity”.

Concluding on a diplomatic note, the Ambassador pointed out that “Both Russia and India do not recognise the illegal sanctions against Russia and by implementing such measures, Western countries are only undermining themselves as reliable partners”.

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