Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Moscow signifies a strategic maneuver in India's foreign policy amidst a complicated global landscape. This trip marks his first visit to Russia since the onset of the Ukraine conflict, underscoring India's nuanced stance in international diplomacy.
The historical ties between India and Russia, established during the Cold War, have continued to evolve, especially as both nations have navigated the geopolitical shifts resulting from Russia's actions in Ukraine. India's role as a major buyer of Russian oil, now accounting for over 40% of its oil imports, highlights the deep economic interdependence between the two countries despite international sanctions against Russia.
However, Russia's growing proximity to China, India's strategic rival, complicates this relationship. The Sino-Indian border skirmish in June 2020 has heightened New Delhi's apprehensions, influencing its diplomatic calculus concerning Moscow. This is evident from Modi's absence at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, a platform dominated by Russia and China.
Despite these complexities, Modi's visit underscores the continued significance of defence cooperation, with Russia being a primary supplier of military equipment to India. This partnership faces challenges due to delays in military supplies amidst Russia's focus on its Ukraine operations, prompting India to diversify its defence procurement sources.
Trade will also be a pivotal topic during the discussions, particularly plans to develop a maritime corridor between Chennai and Vladivostok. The trade relationship has seen substantial growth, with India aiming to balance the trade deficit by boosting its exports to Russia.
Modi's visit, set against the backdrop of Putin's international interactions, serves both leaders' interests. For Putin, it demonstrates Russia's enduring relevance on the global stage despite Western sanctions. For Modi, it reaffirms India's strategic autonomy and its ability to maintain a diversified set of alliances.
Overall, the visit highlights India's strategic balancing act, seeking to maintain its historical ties with Russia while addressing contemporary geopolitical challenges and diversifying its global partnerships.
