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In a week charged with diplomatic tension and shifting alliances, India and Russia are preparing to hold high-level talks in Moscow on August 21. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to co-chair the 26th session of the Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation. The timing is crucial, as the dialogue unfolds against the backdrop of escalating US tariffs on Indian imports linked to Russian oil purchases.
With energy, defence, and strategic partnerships on the table, the talks are expected to shape not just bilateral relations but also India’s broader foreign policy posture.
Key developments ahead of the Moscow meeting
- The talks will be held under the framework of the IRIGC-TEC, a key mechanism for advancing India-Russia cooperation across multiple sectors
- Jaishankar’s visit spans August 19 to 21 and includes participation in the India-Russia Business Forum
- The meeting follows US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 50 percent tariff on Indian goods, citing India’s continued oil trade with Russia
- Russia remains India’s top crude oil supplier, accounting for over 35 percent of total imports in FY25
- The visit comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to President Vladimir Putin, reaffirming India’s commitment to deepening strategic ties
Energy security and tariff tensions take center stage
India’s energy imports from Russia have become a flashpoint in global diplomacy. Since 2022, India has ramped up purchases of discounted Russian crude, reducing its energy costs and diversifying supply chains. However, this move has drawn criticism from Washington, which recently imposed a 25 percent tariff on Indian goods, doubling the existing levy to 50 percent.
The Moscow talks are expected to address these tensions head-on. India has maintained that its oil imports are driven by economic necessity and national interest. Officials have reiterated that unilateral actions like tariffs disrupt global markets and threaten energy security for developing nations.
Trade and investment goals on the agenda
Beyond energy, the talks will focus on expanding trade and investment cooperation. India and Russia are exploring new avenues in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, digital technology, and infrastructure. The India-Russia Business Forum will spotlight opportunities for joint ventures and market access, especially for small and medium enterprises.
Recent data shows bilateral trade between India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), led by Russia, reached 69 billion dollars in 2024, marking a 7 percent increase over the previous year. Negotiations for a free trade agreement between India and the EAEU have also begun, with terms of reference signed in Moscow this week.
Defence and strategic partnerships remain strong
Defence cooperation continues to be a cornerstone of India-Russia relations. Russia remains a key supplier of military platforms and hardware to India, and both sides are expected to discuss future procurement plans and joint production initiatives.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s recent visit to Moscow laid the groundwork for these discussions. Doval met President Putin and Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu to review defence and energy ties. His visit also helped coordinate preparations for the upcoming India-Russia Annual Summit, expected later this year.
Geopolitical balancing act in motion
India’s engagement with Russia comes at a time when global alliances are being tested. By deepening ties with Moscow while managing tensions with Washington, India is signaling its intent to pursue an independent foreign policy. The talks in Moscow are likely to reinforce this message, emphasizing dialogue, diplomacy, and strategic autonomy.
India has consistently called for peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict and has maintained communication with both Russia and Western powers. The upcoming meeting between Jaishankar and Lavrov is expected to touch upon regional stability and multilateral cooperation frameworks such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.
Looking ahead: What to expect post-Moscow
As Jaishankar wraps up his visit, attention will turn to the outcomes of the IRIGC-TEC session and the bilateral talks. Key deliverables may include joint statements on energy cooperation, trade facilitation, and strategic alignment. The groundwork laid in Moscow will also shape the agenda for President Putin’s expected visit to India later this year.
Sources: Mathrubhumi, OneIndia, MSN News, The Hindu Business Line, Times of India, Indian Express.
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