Defense Ministers of India and Russia praised the strong relations between Putin’s visit and the big military agreement.

Defense Ministers Rajnath Singh and Andrei Belousov today co-chaired the 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation, reaffirming the “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership” established in 2000. The meeting, held at the Manekshaw Center ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s two-day official visit for the 23rd annual summit, emphasized strong defense cooperation despite global uncertainties.

Singh welcomed Belousov, and emphasized the pace of people-to-people exchanges and expert talks. Praising the growth of the partnership, he said, “Russia is a time-tested, special, privileged and strategic partner of India.” He also emphasized the need to take forward the 26th India-Russia Working Group on Trade and Economic Cooperation in Moscow and the Free Trade Agreement negotiations with the Eurasian Economic Union. Singh expressed happiness over Putin’s arrival and expressed hope that this summit will further strengthen the relations between the two countries.

Belousov also reiterated the same point and mentioned the deep traditions that bind the countries. “Our countries are bound by a strong, time-tested friendship based on mutual respect,” he said during the session, where both paid tribute at the National War Memorial. The commission, a key forum, takes “impactful and mutually beneficial decisions” in military areas, including shipbuilding and developments in the BrahMos missile.

The talks coincide with Russia’s recent approval on December 2 of the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS) agreement, which will allow mutual access to military facilities for refueling, maintenance and joint exercises—enhancing operations in the Arctic and Indian Ocean. Agenda items include S-400 deliveries (got three squadrons out of five), Su-30 upgrades, and possible Su-57 fighter acquisition, as well as nuclear cooperation.

Putin, arriving on Thursday evening, will hold summit talks with PM Narendra Modi on trade, energy and defence. They aim to reduce India’s $50B+ trade deficit by increasing exports in pharmaceuticals, automobiles, marine products and agriculture. Russian state media have reported the preparation of 10 inter-governmental documents and more than 15 commercial MoUs in shipping, healthcare, fertilizer and connectivity. This first visit of Putin after 2021 indicates strength amidst restrictions, promotion of people-to-people ties, mobility, culture and science.

This rapprochement strengthens the decades-long partnership, with bilateral trade reaching $68.7B in FY25, and an eye on multipolar stability.

**Highlights:** While ministers have praised “time-tested” bonds, the defense talks and Putin’s summit signaled deep strategic synergy—linking military might with economic strength for mutual strengthening. (312 words)