Image Source : Outlook India
India continues to pursue independent relationships with Russia and the European Union, treating each partnership as distinct and strategically separate. While Russia remains a key defense and energy partner, India’s engagement with the EU focuses on trade, security, and diversification. This dual-track approach underscores New Delhi’s pragmatic, multipolar foreign policy vision.
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India’s foreign policy stance highlights its ability to balance ties with major global players while safeguarding national interests. Recent developments reaffirm that India’s relationship with Russia and the EU stands independently, shaped by unique priorities and strategic considerations.
Russia Partnership:
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Long-standing defense cooperation, with Russia supplying a majority of India’s military hardware.
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Increased imports of discounted Russian oil since 2022, boosting fiscal benefits but raising sanction-related risks.
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Continued coordination through BRICS, SCO, and RIC frameworks despite diverging strategic outlooks.
EU Engagement:
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India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) seen as a “strategic choice” to reduce reliance on China, Russia, and the US.
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Upcoming Security and Defence Partnership to deepen cooperation in technology, trade, and global governance.
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EU leaders’ visits to India signal stronger alignment on economic diversification and shared democratic values.
India’s approach reflects a pragmatic balance leveraging Russia for defense and energy needs while building a future-oriented partnership with the EU. This separation ensures flexibility in navigating global challenges and maintaining autonomy in foreign policy.
Sources: The Indian Express, Swedish Institute of International Affairs, EU-India Summit reports
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India’s Foreign Policy: Distinct Paths with Russia and the EU
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