What the optics of a visit can't hide: India-Russia relationship is paradoxical and stagnant |
The 23rd India-Russia summit held on December 5 was a showcase of contrasts. It looked like an undeniable success, demonstrating the proverbial durability of strategic partnership at a time of global turmoil. One thing, however, was missing: Outcomes. Two new joint ventures in pharmaceuticals and fertiliser supply are significant, as are growing exchanges between media and civil societies. But it is hard to pick out any significant deal. Instead, New Delhi and Moscow opted for low-hanging fruits and ostensibly agreed to leave high-value items for the future.
Is the current dynamic a continuation of the decline in the relationship that has lasted since the early years of the previous decade, or is it a renaissance of the strategic partnership that would probably require further efforts to get back on track? Although the relationship........