India-Russia Annual Summit: Key Agreements Signed for Enhanced Cooperation
Significant Agreements at the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit
During the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit held in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin witnessed the exchange of several crucial agreements. The two leaders signed multiple bilateral accords focusing on defense, trade, energy, science and technology, and cultural collaboration.
Joint Press Conference Highlights
In a joint press conference, Prime Minister Modi welcomed President Putin, stating, "My friend President Putin, I am pleased to welcome you to the 23rd India-Russia bilateral summit. Twenty-five years ago, President Putin laid the strong foundation of our strategic partnership." He further emphasized, "Over the past eight decades, the world has seen many ups and downs, but the friendship between India and Russia has remained as stable as the North Star. This relationship is built on mutual respect and trust... Today, we discussed all the issues that will further strengthen this bond."
Signing of the Vision 2030 Document
Modi announced that both nations have signed the 'Vision 2030' document to steer economic cooperation in a new direction. He stated, "We have signed the Vision 2030 document to enhance economic collaboration. Today, we will also participate in the India-Russia Business Forum. I am confident that this platform will strengthen our trade relations and open new avenues for co-production and co-innovation. Both countries are also taking new steps to realize the FTA with the Eurasian Economic Union."
Cultural Ties and Initiatives
Highlighting the cultural ties between India and Russia, Modi mentioned, "This October, millions of devotees will witness the sacred relics of Lord Buddha at the International Buddhist Forum in Kalmykia. I am pleased to announce that we will soon introduce a 30-day free e-tourist visa and a 30-day group tourist visa for Russian citizens..."
Putin's Address on Strategic Partnership
Russian President Vladimir Putin described the India-Russia relationship as "standing the test of time," emphasizing the need to further expand the strategic partnership. He praised India's role in trade, energy, defense industries, and cultural exchanges, reaffirming Russia's commitment to enhancing long-term cooperation with India.
Agreements Reached in Various Sectors
The summit resulted in agreements and declarations in the following areas:
- Defense and military-technical cooperation
- Energy, nuclear energy, and natural gas supply
- Trade and industrial production partnership
- Science, technology, and innovation
- Cultural and educational cooperation
- Plans to enhance tourism and people-to-people contacts