India, Russia fast-track key agreements ahead of Putin’s visit

India and Russia are accelerating work on a series of trade, labour and diplomatic agreements ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, senior MEA officials said on Tuesday. The push reflects both sides’ intent to inject fresh momentum into a relationship navigating shifting geopolitical currents.

Officials confirmed that India and Russia have completed negotiations on a labour mobility agreement. “The document has been finalised. Both sides are now going through their internal procedures before signing,” an official said. The pact is expected to ease the movement of Indian workers into Russia at a time when several sectors there face acute shortages.

FTA talks regain pace with Eurasian bloc

Negotiations on a long-discussed Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) have restarted. The first round of talks was held last week. “The idea is to conclude it as quickly as possible, but trade negotiations have their own rhythm,” an official cautioned, hinting that timelines will remain flexible.

To strengthen its presence across Russian regions, India will establish two new consulates—one in Kazan and another in Yekaterinburg. This expansion is aimed at supporting business outreach, students, and the growing Indian community.

Efforts to narrow India’s trade deficit

Officials also noted a “clear push” from Moscow in recent months to address India’s widening trade deficit. Russia has approved more Indian companies to export marine products and recently opened its market to Indian potatoes and pomegranates.

Fertilisers remain central to bilateral commerce, with India importing 3–4 million tonnes from Russia annually. “These supplies are critical for our agricultural needs,” an official said. Business events during the visit will be co-hosted by FICCI and a major Russian industry body to further deepen ties across trade, healthcare, education, culture and media.

Defence, energy cooperation: No big reveals expected

While defence cooperation will feature in the discussions, officials said headline announcements are unlikely. “It’s not customary to unveil defence pacts during such visits,” one official noted.

On energy, India reiterated that oil companies make decisions strictly on commercial grounds. “They consider all factors, including sanctions, before making procurement choices,” an official added.

MEA rebukes joint Op-ed by Western envoys

Reacting to a recent article by the British, French and German ambassadors urging India to rethink its engagement with Moscow, the MEA expressed clear displeasure. “We found it very unusual. It’s not acceptable for envoys to offer public diplomatic advice. We have taken note,” the official said.

Putin’s visit is expected to underline continuity in India-Russia relations, with both sides focused on practical cooperation and resolving longstanding trade bottlenecks.