Greater Noida: Amid ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday underlined the significance of India’s relationship with Russia, even as Washington expressed concerns over New Delhi’s oil trade with Moscow.
Speaking at the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS) 2025, where Russia is the international partner, PM Modi highlighted the “time-tested partnership” between the two nations and reaffirmed India’s commitment to self-reliance or aatmanirbharta.
Focus on defence and self-reliance
PM Modi announced that India would soon begin production of AK-203 rifles at a factory established with Russian assistance. He said, “A country like India doesn’t want to depend on anyone. The country must become self-reliant; every product that can be made in India should be made here.”
He also mentioned the ongoing production of BrahMos missiles and the establishment of a defence corridor in Uttar Pradesh, emphasising India’s growing indigenous defence capabilities.
Strengthening India-Russia partnership
Highlighting Russia’s participation in the trade show, PM Modi said it symbolises the strengthening of bilateral ties. “With this trade show, India is reinforcing the time-tested partnership with Russia,” he added.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come in the backdrop of strained India-US ties, following the imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian imports, half of which were levied by US President Donald Trump citing India’s continued oil trade with Russia.
India-Russia relations in focus
PM Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have consistently maintained strong personal and diplomatic ties. Their most recent display of camaraderie was at the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China, where the two leaders shared a hug and a car ride en route to bilateral talks, underscoring the enduring closeness between the nations.
UPITS 2025 trade show
The UP International Trade Show 2025, which runs in Greater Noida until September 29, is an annual platform to showcase business and trade opportunities. Russia’s participation as the international partner reflects deepening economic collaboration and joint ventures between India and Russia, particularly in defence and industrial sectors.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s emphasis on self-reliance and the India-Russia partnership signals a strategic balancing act as India navigates complex trade relations with both Moscow and Washington. While engaging in energy and trade discussions with the US, India continues to strengthen long-standing ties with Russia, particularly in defence production and industrial cooperation.