Lavrov Highlights Russia-India Ties Amid Gulf Talks

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday highlighted the strengthening ties between Moscow and New Delhi while engaging in urgent discussions with his Iranian counterpart over escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf, underscoring Russia's active role in regional diplomacy amid global conflicts.

In a video address to the Second International Conference on Russia and India: Towards a New Agenda for Bilateral Relations, Lavrov expressed Moscow's eagerness for continued high-level engagement with India. He anticipated a visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia in 2026, building on President Vladimir Putin's trip to New Delhi in December 2025. That visit, Lavrov noted, reaffirmed the alignment of strategic objectives between the two nations and resulted in the signing of numerous policy documents. "We look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia in 2026," Lavrov said, describing the partnership as a "time-tested friendship" grounded in equality, mutual trust, and respect for each other's interests.

Bilateral trade reached approximately $60 billion in 2025, with leaders setting a target of $100 billion by 2030. Lavrov emphasized efforts to...