NEW DELHI- Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 5 assured India of uninterrupted fuel supplies as part of a broader push to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.

Addressing a joint press meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi here, President Putin said: “We are ready to continue uninterrupted shipments of fuel for the growing Indian economy.” Both leaders are known for not talking to the press with Modi having to be pushed during his Washington visit to meet the press corps.

No arms deal was announced but the announcement came as both countries signed multiple agreements, covering sectors from fertilizers and food safety to shipping and maritime logistics.

India had become the top buyer of Russia’s seaborne oil following the Ukraine war, but recently cut crude imports due to US sanctions on leading Russian producers Rosneft and Lukoil. Following this, Europe also announced sanctions against the purchase of petroleum products distilled from Russian crude. India has been dancing between being a conduit for Russian oil – which is trying to circumvent western sanctions and the devastating effect on its economy – and not face the wrath of the west.

India and Russia are focused on drastically expanding their economic partnership. The bilateral trade between the two countries in 2023–24 was valued at $65.70 billion, comprising $4.26 billion in Indian exports and $61.44 billion in imports.

The countries aim to take the bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said at the India-Russia Business Forum that the nations must work together to bring greater diversity and balance to their trade basket.

Some of India’s top imports from Russia in FY25 include crude oil at nearly $57 billion, animal and vegetable fats and oils at $2.4 billion, fertilizers at $1.8 billion, and pearls, precious, and semi-precious stones at $433.93 million. (IANS)