What Key Discussions Did EAM Jaishankar Have with Russian Scholars?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- EAM Jaishankar engaged with Russian scholars and think tanks.
- Discussions centered on India-Russia relations and global geopolitics.
- Visit includes co-chairing the IRIGC-TEC.
- Tribute paid at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- High-level meetings continue to strengthen ties.
Moscow, Aug 20 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar engaged in a productive discussion with leading Russian scholars and representatives from think tanks on Wednesday, delving into the bilateral relationship between India and Russia, the shifting landscape of global geopolitics, and India's stance during his ongoing three-day official visit to Russia.
“I am delighted to engage with esteemed scholars and think tank leaders from Russia. We explored India-Russia relations, modern world geopolitics, and India's insights,” the EAM shared on X.
Jaishankar also paid tribute by laying a wreath at the 'Tomb of the Unknown Soldier' in Moscow’s Alexander Garden, a memorial honoring Soviet soldiers who lost their lives during World War II.
The EAM is set to co-chair the 26th Session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC) in Moscow, aimed at enhancing bilateral ties.
This visit by EAM Jaishankar follows an invitation from Denis Manturov, the First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the strategic importance of this visit.
“The initiative aims to further solidify the enduring and trusted India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,” the MEA stated prior to the visit.
During his time in Russia, Jaishankar will also engage in bilateral discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. This meeting continues the trend of high-level exchanges between the two nations.
Previously, the two leaders met during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Foreign Ministers' meeting on July 15 and at the recent BRICS Summit.
Earlier this year, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri also visited Moscow for consultations with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, emphasizing the ongoing diplomatic efforts between New Delhi and Moscow.
These high-profile visits precede a possible interaction as Russian President Vladimir Putin is anticipated to visit India later this year, following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.