Key Discussions Held Between India’s NSA Doval and Russian Security Chief Shoigu in Moscow

NSA Ajit Doval and Russia’s Secretary of the Security Council Sergey Shoigu convened in Moscow on August 7 to discuss methods to enhance the strategic partnership between their countries. The Russian Embassy in India shared details of the meeting, highlighting the objective of strengthening the special and privileged strategic partnership. The embassy also noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin had earlier received Doval at the Kremlin. During the discussions, Doval mentioned that the dates for President Putin’s visit to India are currently being determined. He emphasized the unique and enduring relationship between India and Russia, recognizing the importance of their strategic partnership. He also expressed his excitement about the upcoming visit of President Putin to India, noting that summit meetings have historically been significant. Last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Russia, and he and President Putin recognized the special nature of their long-standing relationship, built on mutual trust, understanding, and strategic alignment. According to a joint statement, both leaders positively evaluated the diverse and mutually beneficial relations between India and Russia, including political and strategic, military and security, trade and investment, energy, science and technology, nuclear, space, cultural, educational, and humanitarian cooperation. Both sides are actively seeking new avenues for collaboration while reinforcing existing cooperation. The 11th Session of the India-Russia Working Group on Modernization and Industrial Cooperation was held in the national capital on Wednesday, under the framework of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation.