A diplomatic dance that stretched across borders and time zones, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin engaged in a telephonic tête-à-tête on January 15. The conversation, as outlined in official statements from both sides, delved into the complexities of the ongoing Ukraine conflict, Moscow’s imminent leadership of the BRICS, and an exchange of good wishes for their respective electoral ambitions.
As the world tuned in to this diplomatic duet, Modi took to social media to share insights into the conversation. “We discussed various positive developments in our Special & Privileged Strategic Partnership and agreed to chalk out a roadmap for future initiatives. We also had a useful exchange of views on various regional and global issues, including Russia’s Presidency of the BRICS,” he shared on the digital stage.
The Prime Minister’s Office in India echoed this sentiment, elaborating that the leaders revisited the progress on several fronts of bilateral cooperation, building upon recent high-level exchanges between the two nations. “They also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest,” the PMO added, hinting at the depth and breadth of the diplomatic discourse.
Modi and Putin, it seems, were not just content with discussing affairs of state. They also extended their well wishes to each other for the upcoming elections, where both leaders are seeking another term at the helm. A political encore, if you will, as they navigate the labyrinth of electoral processes in their respective countries.
In a joint statement posted on the Kremlin’s website, the leaders expressed their mutual interest in “further intensifying mutually beneficial bilateral ties.” Notably, the conversation also dipped its toes into the icy waters of the Ukraine conflict, demonstrating the resilience of diplomatic relations amid geopolitical tensions.
The geopolitical stage, however, is not the only arena where India and Russia continue their enthralling duet. The economic overture plays a significant part, with Russia maintaining its position as India’s largest source of crude oil imports. Recent data reveals that in December, India imported 1.52 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian crude oil, a modest increase from the previous month. The figures highlight Russia’s growing significance as a crude oil supplier to India, a role that has expanded following the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Interestingly, while India maintains its traditional camaraderie with Russia, it also keeps close ties with Western nations, including the United States. This delicate diplomatic balancing act is reflected in India’s occasional criticisms of Moscow’s military campaign, emphasizing the nuanced nature of international relations in a complex world.
As the curtain falls on this telephonic diplomatic drama, the stage is set for the upcoming parliamentary elections in India and the presidential poll in Russia. Modi and Putin, having exchanged pleasantries and aspirations, will now face the scrutiny of their electorates, adding another layer of intrigue to this geopolitical play. The telephonic tango continues, leaving the world eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the evolving narrative of India-Russia relations.