Russia has been a pillar of strength at difficult moments in India’s history and Moscow is and will remain New Delhi’s most important defence partner, the President said after an honorary doctorate degree was conferred on him by the Russian Diplomatic Academy here.
“Terrorism and extremism emanating from our shared neighbourhood remains a security threat for India and Russia,” he said and underlined that dealing with this challenge requires not only a strong commitment by the two countries but also cooperation among the international community.
Mukherjee appreciated Russia’s support for India’s permanent membership of the UN Security Council and membership of multilateral export control regimes.
He also praised Russia’s efforts to bring about a political settlement in Syria and its contribution towards a peaceful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue.
“Across Indian society and the spectrum of its political structures, there is unanimity that friendship with Russia is an important pillar of India’s foreign policy,” he said.
The President said at the last India-Russia Annual Summit on December 11, 2014, both the countries agreed on a strategic vision to further strengthen and diversify cooperation in the years ahead.
“India values her close and extensive cooperation with Russia in defence, nuclear energy and security. Russia is and will remain our most important defence partner.
“It is also a key partner for our energy security, building on its leading role in the development of nuclear power generation in India. There are evident complementarities that underlie our cooperation in hydrocarbons,” he said.
Mukherjee said Russia is one of the world’s largest oil and gas producers while India is one of the largest consumers.
India’s largest investment in Russia is in the oil and gas sector, which can increase significantly and emerge as the driver of a resurgent economic partnership.
Both countries are committed to do so, he said.
Mukherjee is on a five-day visit to Russia to attend the celebration of Victory Day tomorrow to commemorate Russia’s victory in World War-II against Germany. .
PTI