External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday called on Russian President Vladimir Putin, as the two sides discussed economic ties, focussing on key areas such as trade, energy, fertilisers and nuclear cooperation.
During his visit, Jaishankar is also scheduled to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to exchange views on regional and global issues, the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement on Saturday. “I think our economic cooperation, trade, energy, fertilisers, nuclear, other dimensions as well – I would be pleased to speak about it in detail. “I am pleased to note that our trade has increased this year. “Even amidst a complex international landscape, our engagement has continued to deepen, reflecting the mutual interest and confidence that define our bilateral partnership.
Jaishankar said the two sides had held a meeting of the inter-governmental commission earlier in the day and had a “good report” on their economic cooperation. Overall, I think our economic cooperation has grown very significantly,” the foreign minister said. Putin said Russia was increasing fertiliser supplies to India and was ready to continue doing so, according to the state-run TASS news agency. Putin also said trade between Russia and India had increased this year after declining slightly last year. Jaishankar conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s greetings and a personal communication to Putin, and said the Indian leader looked forward to meeting him at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit and then welcoming him to India for the BRICS Summit. “Prime Minister Modi looks forward to meeting you at the SCO summit, then welcoming you in India for the BRICS Summit, and in due course, as per your mutual convenience, having the annual summit,” Jaishankar said. “The India-Russia partnership has consistently demonstrated resilience and adaptability,” Jaishankar said.
It declined slightly last year, but it is growing this year,” Putin was quoted as saying by the news agency.
