Did Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov Arrive in New Delhi to Co-Chair a Key Military Meeting with Rajnath Singh?
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Synopsis
Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov's arrival in New Delhi marks a significant moment as he co-chairs the 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military Cooperation with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. This meeting promises to strengthen defense ties and address crucial regional and global issues.
Key Takeaways
- Belousov's visit signifies deepening military ties.
- Focus on joint research and production of defense equipment.
- Potential for addressing global security issues.
- Honoring Indian soldiers at the National War Memorial.
- Continued collaboration under the 10-year agreement.
New Delhi, Dec 4 (NationPress) Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov has touched down in New Delhi on Thursday to co-chair the 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation meeting alongside Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The Minister of State (MoS) for Defence, Sanjay Seth, greeted Belousov at the airport, with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan also in attendance.
This pivotal ministerial meeting will occur later today at the Manekshaw Centre.
During their discussions, Singh and Belousov will assess the comprehensive defense ties between the two nations, focusing on military and technical cooperation. They will also share insights on pressing regional and global matters of mutual concern, as stated by the Ministry of Defence.
As part of his visit, Belousov will lay a wreath at the National War Memorial, honoring the brave Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Defense remains a cornerstone of the robust friendship and strategic partnership shared by India and Russia. They adhere to a unique 10-year agreement that governs their military and defense technology collaboration. The military-technical cooperation pact for 2021–2031, signed on December 6, 2021, in New Delhi, emphasizes joint research, development, production, and after-sales support for military equipment, according to the official statement.
This cooperation has transitioned from a simple buyer-seller relationship to one characterized by collaborative research and development, as well as the production of advanced defense technologies. Russia is a vital supplier of defense equipment, engines, spare parts, and components. Numerous defense platforms, including T-90 tanks and Su-30 MKI aircraft, are also assembled or produced in India.
The two countries are actively pursuing co-development and co-production of defense equipment, with potential exports to other nations, such as the BrahMos system. Singh's visit to Russia in December 2024 included co-chairing the 21st IRIGC - M&MTC meeting, as well as participating in the commissioning of the frigate INS Tushil into the Indian Navy in Kaliningrad.
On July 1, INS Tamal, the latest stealth multi-role frigate, was also commissioned in Kaliningrad. The 5th Meeting of the Working Group on Military Cooperation of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) was conducted in New Delhi on October 28-29, 2025.
Point of View
The visit of Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov to New Delhi reflects the enduring partnership between India and Russia, especially in defense. The series of discussions and initiatives planned during this meeting aim to bolster military cooperation and address shared concerns in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
NationPress
04/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission?
The purpose is to strengthen military and technical cooperation between India and Russia, reviewing ties and addressing contemporary regional and global issues.
Who welcomed the Russian Defence Minister in New Delhi?
The Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, welcomed the Russian Defence Minister at the airport.
What will happen during Belousov's visit?
Belousov will co-chair the meeting with Rajnath Singh and lay a wreath at the National War Memorial to honor Indian soldiers.
