India–Russia ties a 'factor of stability' in international relations, says Jaishankar in meeting with Lavrov

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday described India–Russia relations as a “factor of stability in international relations,” saying the partnership’s growth and evolution is not only in India-Russia’s mutual interest, but also in that of the world.”

Jaishankar said the meeting between him and his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov would include an exchange of views on “the complex global situation with the openness that has always characterised our ties,” noting that discussions would cover the Ukraine conflict, the Middle East, Afghanistan and other pressing international issues.

“India supports recent efforts towards establishing peace. We hope that all parties approach that goal constructively. An early cessation of the conflict and ensuring of an enduring peace is in the interest of the entire international community. 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…” he said.

Jaishankar also highlighted the significance of the meeting as both sides prepare for President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India for the upcoming 23rd annual summit.

“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. A number of bilateral agreements, initiatives and projects are under discussion in various fields. We look forward to the finalisation in the coming days. This will certainly add more substance and texture to our special and privileged strategic partnership…” Jaishankar added.

The external affairs minister’s visit to Moscow is being widely viewed as part of preparations for President Putin’s upcoming trip to India.

Putin is expected to arrive around December 5 for the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where the two leaders are likely to announce key outcomes aimed at strengthening their strategic partnership.

At the summit, PM Modi and President Putin are expected to discuss ways to further advance the countries’ “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”

India and Russia hold an annual summit between the Indian prime minister and the Russian president to review the full spectrum of bilateral ties, with 22 such meetings held so far, alternating between the two countries.

Prime Minister Modi last travelled to Moscow for the summit in July last year. Russia remains one of India’s most reliable partners and a central pillar of New Delhi’s foreign policy.

With inputs from agencies