December 4, 2025
MUMBAI – Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Moscow is looking to push its partnerships with India and China into a “qualitatively new level”, signalling a deeper technological and economic alignment ahead of his two-day visit to New Delhi. Putin arrives in India on December 4 for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Putin’s comments, made at an investment forum in Moscow, reflect Russia’s broader repositioning as it seeks stable economic corridors and high-technology collaborations with Asian partners amid Western sanctions.
Russia seeks deeper technology-driven cooperation with India, China
Putin said the aim behind multiple joint projects across energy, industry, space, agriculture, and other sectors is to strengthen the technological foundation of Moscow’s ties with Beijing and New Delhi.
“We aim to elevate cooperation with the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of India to a qualitatively new level by strengthening its technological component,” he said, according to ANI.
Putin added that he has a “substantive dialogue” with Chinese President Xi Jinping on economic matters and intends to build a similar conversation with PM Modi when they meet in New Delhi, including discussions on increasing imports of Indian goods into the Russian market.
Defence cooperation expected to dominate New Delhi agenda
Ahead of the summit, the Kremlin has hinted that defence cooperation will feature prominently during the talks.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said discussions could include the sale of additional S-400 long-range air defence systems.
“Highly on the agenda and this could be discussed… Russian arms 36% in Indian armed forces and hopefully will continue,” Peskov said.
Russia is also likely to push the possible acquisition of its Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter by India.
“SU-57 is the best plane in the world. SU57 will be on the agenda,” Peskov said.
He further highlighted the success of the BrahMos missile programme as an example of high-technology cooperation between the two countries.
“It’s not only just production or… acts of buying or selling, it’s exchange of high technologies… it really paves the way for a bright future,” he added.
Nuclear energy pact may be explored
Peskov also indicated that a fresh agreement in the nuclear energy sector could be discussed during the visit, including Russian proposals for small and flexible reactor technology.
“There will be an offer for small reactor… Russia has real experience in producing small reactors,” he said, noting that both sides value joint investments in atomic energy. He referenced the long-standing partnership at Kudankulam as Moscow hopes for its continuation and possible expansion.
Putin and PM Modi will hold the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit during the Russian President’s December 4-5 visit, with both sides expected to review the full spectrum of bilateral ties.