MEA sets tone for Putin visit

Senior officials in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday outlined the key priorities for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit, emphasising that the summit will be driven primarily by economic and trade objectives, alongside efforts to stabilise the widening trade imbalance and advance a long-awaited skilled mobility pact.

“This is an important visit, and the leaders will review the entire spectrum of the relationship,” a senior MEA official said. “India and Russia have been one of the most stable relationships in modern times. It has contributed to peace and stability, and on both sides there is a deep understanding of how important this partnership is.”

Officials said the summit will place strong emphasis on increasing bilateral trade and correcting India’s mounting deficit. India hopes to expand exports of pharmaceuticals, agriculture and marine products, processed foods and consumer goods. Talks have also included the export of potatoes, pomegranates and additional marine products.

A key deliverable expected during the visit is the finalised pact enabling the mobility of skilled and semi-skilled Indian workers to Russia. “The document has been finalised and is going through internal processes,” an MEA official confirmed, noting the arrangement aligns with Russia’s labour requirements. India is also expanding its diplomatic footprint within Russia.

“Our consulate in Kazan started functioning last week, and the consulate in Yekaterinburg will begin operations soon,” officials said.

On energy, the MEA reiterated that decisions by Indian companies remain market-driven and based on global price dynamics. Addressing concerns about Indians joining the Russian Army, officials again urged caution. “Indian nationals should be careful when signing foreign contracts. They must be cautious about job offers,” an official said, adding that more than a dozen Indians have been repatriated.

Counter-terrorism will feature in the discussions, with officials recalling that Russia was the first partner with whom India established a counter-terrorism working group in 2002. Officials also expressed sharp displeasure over a joint op-ed by the UK, French and German ambassadors published ahead of the visit, calling it “very unusual” and “not an acceptable diplomatic practice.” An official said, “It is not appropriate to give public advice on third-country relations. We have taken note of it.”