PM Modi announces new Indian consulates in Russia's Kazan, Yekaterinburg
New Delhi, July 09: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the opening of two new Indian consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg, Russia, during his recent visit. This announcement was warmly received by the Indian community, who applauded the move aimed at enhancing travel and business opportunities between the two nations.
At an event in Moscow with the Indian diaspora, PM Modi praised the Indian community's efforts in preserving and promoting Indian cultural traditions in Russia. He highlighted the importance of their role in strengthening India-Russia relations and expressed his gratitude for their warm reception. This address marked his first to the Indian diaspora in his historic third term as Prime Minister.
Reflecting on the past decade, Modi emphasized India's significant transformations, including economic growth, advancements in digital and fintech sectors, green development achievements, and socio-economic programs. He shared his vision of making India the third-largest economy in the world during his third term, attributing the nation's success to the dedication and contribution of 1.4 billion Indians.
Prime Minister, Putin Visits Rosatom Pavilion
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi, accompanied by President Vladimir Putin, toured the All Russian Exhibition Centre, VDNKh, in Moscow. They visited the Rosatom Pavilion, one of the largest exhibitions showcasing scientific and technological advancements. Modi attended a photo exhibition highlighting India-Russia cooperation in civil nuclear energy and observed the "Atomic Symphony," a model of the VVER-1000 reactor used in India's Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant.
In a tweet, Modi stated, "Visited the Atom Pavilion with President Putin. Energy is an important pillar of cooperation between India and Russia, and we are eager to further cement ties in this sector." He also interacted with Indian and Russian students at the pavilion, encouraging them to explore future opportunities in science and technology.
Pays tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi paid tribute at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow, honouring Soviet soldiers who lost their lives during World War II.
Modi is on a two-nation tour, with plans to visit Vienna, Austria, next. Upon his arrival in Moscow, he received a ceremonial welcome and was greeted warmly by the Indian community. Expressing his gratitude on social media, Modi said, "A memorable welcome in Moscow! I thank the Indian community for their affection." He had a private dinner and a meeting yesterday with President Putin at his residence;
The India-Russia relationship, marked by the "Declaration on the India-Russia Strategic Partnership" signed in 2000, has been elevated to a "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership" since 2010. The two nations maintain regular contact through institutionalised dialogue mechanisms, including the Annual Summit between the Prime Minister of India and the President of Russia. The last summit was held in New Delhi in December 2021, where 28 MoUs and agreements were signed.
India and Russia collaborate closely on multilateral platforms such as the UN, G20, BRICS, and SCO. Russia, the BRICS Chair for 2024, supports India's candidature for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council. Enhancing trade and economic relations is a priority, with targets to increase bilateral investment to $50 billion and trade to $30 billion by 2025. In FY 2023-24, bilateral trade reached an all-time high of $65.70 billion.
Defence cooperation between the two nations includes joint research and production of advanced technologies, participation in military exercises, and extensive collaboration in various sectors. Educational and cultural exchanges also play a significant role, with numerous Indian students enrolled in Russian universities and collaborations in innovation through initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission and SIRIUS Center.
Prime Minister Modi has been awarded the highest Russian state honor, the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle the First, reflecting the strong and enduring partnership between India and Russia.
