Highlights of the Indian PM’s Two-Day Visit to Russia || UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Highlights of the Indian PM’s Two-Day Visit to Russia || UPSC Daily Current Affairs

Why in News?

The Indian Prime Minister recently completed a two-day visit to Russia, marking a significant event in the bilateral relations between the two nations. The visit aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership, expanding economic cooperation, and discussing key regional and global issues.

Key Highlights of the Visit:

1. Strategic Partnership Enhancement:
• The Indian PM and the Russian President reaffirmed their commitment to deepening the long-standing strategic partnership. 
• Discussions included defense, security, space cooperation, and regional stability. 
2. Economic and Trade Cooperation:
• Both leaders emphasized the need to boost bilateral trade and economic ties, exploring opportunities in diverse sectors.
• Several agreements were signed to enhance cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and technology.
3. Energy Collaboration:
• Energy cooperation was a focal point, with agreements on joint projects in the oil and gas sectors.
• Expansion of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant and collaboration in renewable energy sources were discussed.
4. Defense and Security Cooperation:
• The visit reinforced defense collaboration, including joint development and production of defense equipment.
• Timely delivery of the S-400 missile defense system and other defense agreements were emphasized.
5. Cultural and Educational Exchanges:
• Both nations agreed to promote cultural and educational exchanges to strengthen people-to-people ties.
• Initiatives to increase student exchanges and academic collaborations between Indian and Russian institutions were announced.
6. Regional and Global Issues:
• Discussions covered regional security issues, including the situation in Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific region. 
• Both nations reiterated their commitment to a multipolar world order and the importance of international law and multilateralism.
7. Space Cooperation:
• The visit highlighted cooperation in space exploration, including joint projects in satellite navigation and space technology.
• Potential collaborations in lunar and interplanetary missions were discussed.
8. Participation in the Eastern Economic Forum:
• The Indian PM participated in the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, showcasing India’s interest in the development of the Russian Far East. 
• India announced its readiness to invest in various sectors in the Russian Far East, including energy, mining, and agriculture.
9. Technology and Innovation:
• Agreements were signed to enhance cooperation in technology and innovation, focusing on areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.
• The importance of technology transfer and joint research and development initiatives was emphasized.

Implications of the Visit

For Bilateral Relations:

• Strengthened Ties: The visit reinforced the strategic partnership, enhancing mutual trust and cooperation across various sectors.
• Economic Opportunities: New economic agreements and investments will provide significant opportunities for businesses and boost bilateral trade.

For Regional Stability:

• Security Collaboration: Enhanced defense and security cooperation will contribute to regional stability and address common security challenges.
• Geopolitical Influence: The visit highlighted the importance of India-Russia relations in shaping regional and global geopolitical dynamics.

For Global Cooperation:

• Multilateralism: The commitment to multilateralism and international law will strengthen global governance and collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges.
• Energy Security: Enhanced energy cooperation will contribute to global energy security and sustainable development.

Conclusion

The Indian PM’s two-day visit to Russia was marked by significant advancements in bilateral relations, encompassing strategic, economic, and cultural dimensions. The agreements and discussions held during the visit are expected to have far-reaching implications for both countries, reinforcing their partnership and contributing to regional and global stability.

Q.1. What is the VVER-1000 reactor?

The VVER-1000 reactor is a type of pressurized water reactor (PWR) developed by Russia. It stands for "Vodo-Vodyanoi Energetichesky Reactor," translating to Water-Water Power Reactor. The "1000" denotes the electrical output of 1000 megawatts. The reactor uses light water as both coolant and moderator. Its design emphasizes safety features, including a robust containment structure, multiple redundant safety systems, and a passive heat removal system. The VVER-1000 is part of the VVER series, which has been widely adopted in various countries due to its proven operational efficiency and safety record.


Q.2. What is the extended BRICS organisation?

The extended BRICS organization refers to the expansion of the original BRICS group, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This expansion aims to incorporate additional emerging economies to enhance global economic influence and cooperation. The extended BRICS framework focuses on promoting economic growth, sustainable development, and multipolarity in global governance. By including more countries, the organization seeks to increase its collective bargaining power on international platforms, foster economic and trade relations, and address global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. The expanded BRICS organization emphasizes inclusivity and diversified representation in the global economic order.