Moscow — Russian President Vladimir Putin said he wants to raise cooperation with India and China to a new, more technologically focused level ahead of his trip to New Delhi for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit on December 4-5, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking at an investment forum in Moscow, Putin said numerous joint projects across energy, industry, space, agriculture and other sectors aim to strengthen the technological dimension of ties with both countries. He noted that after establishing a substantive economic dialogue with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he intends to pursue a similar, in-depth discussion with Modi during the visit, including steps to increase Indian exports to the Russian market.
Putin will attend the bilateral summit and hold talks with Modi while in India.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the agenda could include the sale of additional S-400 long-range air-defence systems, noting that Russian equipment accounts for roughly 36% of gear in the Indian armed forces and that defence cooperation is expected to continue. He also said the possible acquisition of the Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter by India would be discussed, describing the aircraft as “the best plane in the world.”
Peskov highlighted defence-industry collaboration such as the BrahMos missile partnership, describing it not only as production and procurement but also as an exchange of high technologies that fosters future cooperation. He said Russia is prepared to share its experience and work with India to develop a range of advanced systems.
On nuclear cooperation, Peskov said Russia might offer small, flexible reactors, citing the country’s extensive experience in producing compact reactors and its involvement in India’s civilian nuclear programme, including the Kudankulam power project, with hopes for continued collaboration.
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