JAISHANKAR’S 5-DAY VISIT TO RUSSIA

Why in the News?

  • External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar commences a five-day visit to Moscow and St. Petersburg.
  • Annual summit between PM Modi and President Putin skipped for the second consecutive year, attributed to the Ukraine conflict.

Bilateral Issues Between India-Russia:

  • Thorny Topics: Discussions expected on rupee-rouble payment mechanism challenges, surge in Russian oil imports, and delays in defense equipment supplies.
  • Trade Concerns: Bilateral trade complexities, including delayed payments and the use of third-country currencies, to be addressed.
  • S-400 Triumf Systems: Supply delays under U.S. sanctions; expected arrival in 2024.
  • Multifaceted Talks: Focus on cultural ties, people-to-people connections, and discussions on international issues like Ukraine war and Israel conflict.

Jaishankar’s visit holds significance amidst evolving geopolitical scenarios, emphasizing diplomatic engagements and addressing key bilateral challenges.