Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed his commitment to expanding long-term economic partnerships with key allies, including India, during his address at the plenary session of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025.
Putin noted that Moscow's roadmap for strategic cooperation with New Delhi through 2030 is expected to be finalized soon.
“Let me remind you that we agreed to prepare long-term cooperation plans with key partners,” he said, adding, “Action plans, including those with countries like India, should be completed shortly.”
He outlined Russia’s broader goals, including increasing oil and gas exports and strengthening economic ties by eliminating trade barriers, exploring new market opportunities, building supporting infrastructure, and deepening investment collaboration.
This year’s SPIEF, often referred to as the 'Russian Davos', centered on the theme “Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World.”
While addressing the broader geopolitical shift, Putin dismissed claims of a deliberate alliance with China to reshape the global order. “A new world order is emerging naturally, like the rising sun. There’s no way to halt it, our role is to formalise this process and facilitate it, ensuring it develops in a more balanced way that aligns with the interests of the vast majority of nations,” he said.
Representing India at the forum was Union Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, and Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw. He delivered keynote addresses at two major sessions.
In a session focused on artificial intelligence, Vaishnaw spoke about India’s progress in AI and the country's vision for ethical and inclusive innovation. Later, at the India-Russia Business Forum, he emphasised the strengthening trade relationship between the two nations and potential areas for further cooperation.
Vaishnaw also held high-level discussions with Russian federal ministers, industry leaders, and investors. Talks focused on bolstering partnerships in key sectors such as logistics, infrastructure, railway modernization, IT, and AI.
According to a statement from the Indian Embassy in Moscow, the minister’s visit underscored “India’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships with Russia, particularly in technology-driven and infrastructure domains, aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and global digital transformation.”