New Delhi/Moscow (Rajeev Sharma): India and Russia are accelerating efforts to deepen their long-standing strategic partnership, with both countries committed to raising bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030, India’s Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, has said. The envoy noted that alongside expanding trade in traditional sectors, both governments are identifying fresh avenues for economic collaboration.
Highlighting the importance of energy cooperation, Kumar said the partnership in the nuclear sector remains on track. He stated that Rosatom continues work on the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, where construction of Units 3 and 4 has made substantial progress, reinforcing the two countries’ long-term cooperation in clean energy.
The ambassador also pointed to the growing presence of Indian professionals in Russia, calling it one of the most significant recent developments in bilateral relations. According to him, the number of skilled Indian workers employed across Russian industries has risen sharply over the past three years—from an estimated 10,000–15,000 to over one lakh—reflecting expanding employment opportunities and industrial cooperation.
Kumar said the next session of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation is expected to review ongoing initiatives and identify new measures to help both nations achieve their ambitious trade target by the end of the decade.
Speaking about multilateral engagement, the envoy described the upcoming BRICS Summit in New Delhi as another important opportunity to strengthen ties. He said Russia has consistently maintained high-level participation in BRICS meetings, adding that cooperation within the grouping complements the robust bilateral relationship shared by the two countries.
The ambassador also noted that 2027 will mark 80 years of diplomatic relations between India and Russia. To commemorate the milestone, both governments are planning a series of events across multiple cities, focusing on commerce, technology, culture, education and people-to-people exchanges.
Kumar said the expanding cooperation in trade, energy, workforce mobility and international forums demonstrates the continued commitment of New Delhi and Moscow to further strengthening their multifaceted partnership in the years ahead.
