External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow, where the two leaders discussed the full spectrum of the India–Russia partnership, including trade, investment, energy, technology, mobility, agriculture, culture and people-to-people ties. They also reviewed the preparations underway for the upcoming 23rd Annual India–Russia Summit.
In a post on X, Jaishankar said, "Glad to meet FM Sergey Lavrov today in Moscow. Held discussions on our bilateral partnership covering trade and investment, energy, mobility, agriculture, technology, culture and people to people exchanges. Exchanged perspectives on regional, global and multilateral issues. Reviewed preparations for the 23rd Annual India-Russia Summit."
During his meeting with Lavrov, Jaishankar underlined the long-standing stability provided by India–Russia ties and noted that the relationship continues to serve not only mutual interests but also the broader global good.
In his opening remarks, he said, "I welcome this opportunity to meet again and our regular interactions - you mentioned six this year so far - have been greatly helpful in advancing our bilateral cooperation and also sharing perspectives on important regional, global and multilateral issues. This particular occasion, for me, is all the more important as we prepare for President Putin's visit to India for the 23rd Annual Summit."
He added that several agreements and initiatives are currently progressing across sectors. "A number of bilateral agreements, initiatives and projects are under discussion in various fields. We look forward to their finalization in the coming days. These will certainly add more substance and texture to our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership."
Jaishankar also said the two sides would exchange views on global challenges with the openness that has always marked their ties. "This includes the Ukraine conflict, as also the Middle East and Afghanistan amongst others. India supports recent efforts towards establishing peace. We hope that all parties approach that goal constructively. An early cessation of the conflict and the ensuring of an enduring peace is in the interest of the entire international community."
He reaffirmed the global relevance of the bilateral relationship, stating, "India-Russia ties have long been a factor of stability in international relations. Its growth and evolution is not only in our mutual interest but also in that of the world. I look forward to our discussions this evening."
Jaishankar is currently in Moscow leading the Indian delegation for the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, which will be hosted by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on November 18.
*With Agency Inputs
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