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ONLiNE UPSC
Prime Minister Modi's visit to Russia serves as a crucial platform for addressing vital areas of cooperation between the two nations. The discussions will primarily focus on several key issues, including:
The defense cooperation between India and Russia is highly significant, with India being one of the largest consumers of Russian military equipment. In the past decade alone, arms deals have exceeded $15 billion, underscoring the strategic partnership between the two nations.
As of 2023, the bilateral trade between India and Russia has reached nearly $50 billion, marking substantial growth. This increase is largely driven by India's import of Russian oil since 2022, reflecting a deepening economic relationship.
Among the various energy projects, the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant stands out as a flagship initiative symbolizing the robust energy collaboration between India and Russia. This project is a cornerstone of their partnership in the energy sector.
Currently, over 6000 Indian students are pursuing their education in Russia, predominantly in medical universities. This educational exchange fosters stronger ties and cultural understanding between the two nations.
India and Russia actively collaborate in several multilateral forums, including BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and the G20. These platforms facilitate dialogue and cooperation on global issues of mutual interest.
During the last summit held in 2021, India and Russia signed 28 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements spanning various sectors, showcasing the commitment to enhancing bilateral relations.
Efforts to enhance trade relations between India and Russia continue to evolve. The current trade volume has exceeded $50 billion, primarily due to India's increasing purchase of Russian oil.
To facilitate trade, both nations are implementing better financial systems, payment methods, insurance, and logistics. These improvements aim to simplify business transactions and bolster economic ties.
The expansion of BRICS to include new members like Egypt, Iran, and Saudi Arabia is expected to strengthen India's and Russia's roles in the global financial system, enhancing their influence on international trade.
Russia advocates for the use of national currencies, such as the Indian rupee, for trade. This approach aims to ease trade processes and reduce dependency on the US dollar.
Russia expresses hope that India and China can amicably resolve their border disputes, contributing to stability in the Eurasian region.
The SCO plays a crucial role in fostering connectivity and cooperation in Eurasia, particularly following its expansion to include new members like Iran and Belarus.
India and Russia share a vision for a multipolar world, founded on equality and mutual respect, which they actively promote in international discourse.
Q1. What are the key areas of Modi's visit to Russia?
Answer: The key areas include defense cooperation, trade, energy projects, cultural exchanges, and multilateral relations.
Q2. How significant is defense cooperation between India and Russia?
Answer: It is highly significant, with India being a major buyer of Russian arms, with deals over $15 billion in the last decade.
Q3. What is the current trade volume between India and Russia?
Answer: The trade volume has exceeded $50 billion, primarily due to India's purchase of Russian oil since 2022.
Q4. How many Indian students are studying in Russia?
Answer: Over 6000 Indian students are currently studying in Russia, mainly in medical universities.
Q5. What is the role of BRICS in India-Russia relations?
Answer: BRICS enhances cooperation and dialogue between member countries, potentially strengthening India's and Russia's roles in the global financial system.
Question 1: What is a major focus of Modi's visit to Russia?
A) Cultural exchanges
B) Defense cooperation
C) Environmental issues
D) Space exploration
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How much has India invested in Russian arms in the last decade?
A) $5 billion
B) $10 billion
C) $15 billion
D) $20 billion
Correct Answer: C
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