How India-Russia Friendship Stands Strong Amid Global Changes
Enduring Ties Between India and Russia
New Delhi: A Russian diplomat has emphasized that the relationship between India and Russia is resilient and cannot be altered by external influences, having endured various global shifts over time.
Petr Sizov, the spokesperson for the Russian Embassy, made these comments during a cultural event held at the India Habitat Centre on Monday evening.
Sizov expressed, "We are friends, and our friendship cannot be changed by anyone else," while addressing the media.
He elaborated that the bond between the two nations is not only founded on decades of diplomatic interactions but also on centuries of connections among their people.
Citing the correspondence between Mahatma Gandhi and the renowned Russian author Leo Tolstoy, Sizov noted that Gandhi viewed Tolstoy as a mentor, and their exchange of letters, despite never meeting, exemplifies the historical ties between the two countries.
He also pointed out the enduring appeal of Indian films in Russia and the appreciation for Russian ballet in India, highlighting that cultural exchanges play a vital role in their bilateral relations.
Looking ahead, Sizov mentioned that Russia intends to host a variety of musical, artistic, and cultural events in India to commemorate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Diana Alipova, spouse of the Russian Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, emphasized the significance of cultural diplomacy in enhancing bilateral relations beyond governmental interactions and fostering direct connections among individuals.
Alipova remarked, "Cultural relationships are crucial because culture reaches the public; it’s a personal connection rather than a governmental one," while speaking to the media.
She added that Russia is actively working to introduce younger Indians to its culture through live performances and is collaborating with schools in Delhi to promote greater involvement in cultural initiatives.
The event showcased the Joint Choir of the Holy Trinity-St Sergius Lavra and the Moscow Theological Academy, which performed Russian sacred choral music and traditional folk songs as part of the Russia Culture Days.
This program is part of ongoing cultural exchanges aimed at enhancing people-to-people connections between India and Russia.