External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow on Monday, where the two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of India-Russia relations and discussed preparations for the upcoming 23rd Annual India-Russia Summit. The meeting covered key areas of cooperation, as well as pressing global developments.
In a post on X after the talks, Jaishankar wrote, “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 opening remarks at the meeting, Jaishankar highlighted the significance of the long-standing strategic partnership between the two nations. He noted that India-Russia ties “have long been a factor of stability in international relations,” and emphasised that their continued evolution serves “not only our mutual interest but also that of the world.”
Referring to ongoing work between the two governments, the minister said several bilateral initiatives and agreements are under discussion across multiple sectors. “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,” he said.
He added that the talks were particularly important in the run-up to President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India for the 23rd Annual Summit. “A number of bilateral agreements, initiatives and projects are under discussion in various fields. We look forward to their finalisation in the coming days. These will certainly add more substance and texture to our Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”
On global issues, Jaishankar said India and Russia would exchange views on the “complex global situation with the openness that has always characterised our ties.” This includes developments related to the Ukraine conflict, the Middle East, and Afghanistan.
“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 added.
Jaishankar is currently in Moscow leading the Indian delegation for the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting, which Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin will host on November 18.
