In a move that underlines the deepening strategic ties between Moscow and New Delhi, Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for concrete steps to reduce the growing trade imbalance with India — a gap largely caused by India’s rising crude oil imports from Russia. The announcement comes just weeks ahead of Putin’s planned visit to India in early December, where he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the annual bilateral summit.
Speaking at the prestigious Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi — an international gathering of security and geopolitical experts from over 140 countries — Putin emphasized the importance of recalibrating trade dynamics to reflect mutual respect and long-term partnership.
“To correct this imbalance, Russia is ready to increase its import of agricultural and pharmaceutical products from India,” Putin stated, adding that relevant ministries had been directed to formulate proposals for enhanced cooperation. He referred to the vast yet untapped potential in the Russia-India economic corridor, urging both sides to remove existing barriers in logistics, financing, and payment systems.
Addressing recent geopolitical tensions, Putin made a pointed remark about punitive US tariffs on India. “The losses India faces due to US sanctions will be balanced by energy cooperation with Russia,” he said, positioning Russia as a more reliable and respectful partner that values India’s sovereignty.
The Russian President praised India’s resilience and independent foreign policy under Prime Minister Modi, whom he called a “wise, nationally oriented” and “trusted friend.” He reiterated that Russia has never had any bilateral tensions with India, and both countries have consistently respected each other’s sensitivities.
Reflecting on historical ties that date back to Soviet-era solidarity, Putin highlighted the enduring nature of Indo-Russian relations. “India remembers and values that support,” he said, affirming the foundation of a “special strategic privileged partnership” which soon marks its 15th anniversary.
One of the most forward-looking moments came when Putin responded positively to a proposal by Dr. Arvind Gupta of New Delhi’s Vivekananda International Foundation. The idea: a joint India-Russia fund to invest in artificial intelligence and frontier technologies — a promising new frontier in bilateral cooperation.
In the End, It’s Not Just Trade – It’s Trust
This announcement isn’t just about correcting a trade imbalance — it’s about a deeper alignment. It’s about two nations, rich in history and vision, choosing dialogue over dominance, partnership over pressure. It reminds us that in a world increasingly divided by geopolitics, there’s still room for sovereign collaboration — rooted in mutual respect and shared aspirations.
The path ahead might require adjustments, negotiations, and political will — but the intent is clear. Putin’s call to action is not just a diplomatic gesture; it’s a reaffirmation of a friendship that stands the test of time and turbulence.
