Lavrov underscored that India chooses its own partners and stressed that there is no threat to the India-Russia economic partnership, despite US tariffs on Indian oil imports from Russia.
"The Indian PM and Foreign Minister have clearly stated that India chooses its own partner countries," Lavrov said, responding to the additional 25% US tariff imposed on India’s oil purchases, bringing the total tariff to 50%. He added, "Our relations are completely secure."
Lavrov reiterated Russia’s support for India’s bid for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), and also highlighted support for Brazil.
He underlined the importance of multilateral platforms like SCO and BRICS, describing BRICS as a key forum for advancing the interests of developing countries.
Trade cooperation
Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar met Lavrov and President Putin in Moscow in August, where he clarified that India is not the largest buyer of Russian oil, noting that China and several European Union countries import more Russian energy. Jaishankar said that despite high US tariffs, India’s oil imports are essential to its energy needs.
Both countries agreed to increase India’s exports of agriculture, medicine, and textiles to Russia to reduce the trade deficit. Jaishankar also stated the need to remove non-tariff barriers and quickly resolve regulatory issues to boost bilateral trade.
Lavrov said, "Our bilateral agenda is very broad. We work together in SCO, BRICS, and other forums."
The US has criticised India’s Russian oil purchases, claiming they support Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.
India’s foreign policy
Lavrov highlighted the longstanding strategic partnership between the two nations, describing it as a 'crucial strategic partnership'.
He stated that Russia fully respects India’s national interests and foreign policy and asserted that trade, investment, economic, technological, and safety-related decisions are made solely between India and the respective countries involved.
Lavrov also referenced the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China, noting close cooperation on international platforms.
He confirmed that President Putin’s visit to India is planned for December, during which both sides will discuss trade, military, technical cooperation, finance, health, high technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and other sectors.
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