India-Russia Ties ‘Higher Than Mountains, Deeper Than Oceans,’ Says Rajnath Singh in Moscow

New Delhi – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described India-Russia friendship as "higher than the highest mountain and deeper than the deepest ocean" during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Tuesday. The meeting underscored the strong and historic partnership between the two nations, with both leaders emphasizing its immense potential for future cooperation.

Singh's visit to Russia comes as part of a three-day trip, during which he co-chaired the 21st session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Cooperation alongside his Russian counterpart, Andrey Belousov.

"India has always stood by its Russian friends and will continue to do so in the future," Singh told President Putin, as per a readout by India’s Ministry of Defence. He also conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Russian president.

On social media platform X, Singh shared, "Glad to call on Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow."

This visit follows a series of high-profile engagements between the two nations, including PM Modi's visit to Moscow five months ago and his participation in the BRICS summit in October. President Putin is scheduled to visit India next year for the annual bilateral summit with PM Modi.

Defence Cooperation Takes Center Stage

Singh used the opportunity to push for expedited delivery of the two remaining units of the S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems. Highlighting new opportunities in India's defence sector, he invited Russian industries to collaborate in the joint production of military hardware.

“India is determined to extend the capabilities of its domestic defence industry across various domains,” Singh noted, emphasizing the mutual benefits of a strong industrial partnership between the two nations.

On Monday, Singh witnessed the commissioning of a Russian-manufactured guided missile frigate into the Indian Navy at Kaliningrad, reaffirming the robust defence ties between the two countries.

India and Russia continue to enhance their "special and privileged strategic partnership," which has been the cornerstone of their bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of defence and military cooperation.