Russian ambassador to India Denis Alipov outlined a path for deeper collaboration between Moscow and New Delhi in the area of nuclear energy. The remarks came during a joint appearance at the Valdai Club and Vivekananda Foundation forum, where the envoy spoke about ongoing and forthcoming initiatives that could broaden the bilateral energy partnership. He emphasized that the two nations plan to pursue larger capacity nuclear reactors and to expand cooperation in the nuclear sector to additional regions within India, signaling a shared interest in strengthening energy ties beyond traditional routes. The ambassador underscored this as part of a broader strategic dialogue aimed at securing reliable energy supplies while supporting economic growth in both countries. This statement was reported by TASS, reflecting a continuing line of discussions at the highest diplomatic levels about future projects and mutual benefits.
Alipov noted that India’s Kudankulam nuclear power plant currently operates six reactors, each with a nominal capacity of 1,000 megawatts. He described these units as a cornerstone of the bilateral energy program and a practical example of successful collaboration between Russia and India in high capacity nuclear infrastructure. The dialogue did not stop at large reactors; the envoy indicated that discussions are also underway concerning the deployment of small modular reactors. This direction is presented as a strategic tool to diversify the energy mix, improve energy security, and adapt to evolving demand patterns across India. Importantly, he framed these conversations as mutually advantageous, stressing that both states stand to gain from advancing a shared nuclear energy agenda.
Beyond the technology focus, the ambassador highlighted that the relationship encompasses ongoing negotiations and agreements related to the construction of future power units at Kudankulam. These agreements form part of a broader framework designed to ensure continuity in project development, regulatory alignment, and long term reliability of power supply for the Indian grid. The emphasis on continued collaboration reflects a steady political will to translate technical outcomes into tangible energy capacity that can support India’s growth trajectory while expanding Russia’s role as a partner in energy infrastructure.
On the commercial front, December data released about bilateral trade underscored a period of significant activity between Russia and India. Official figures indicated that trade turnover reached a historical high, with an overall value near 54.7 billion dollars in the ten months of 2023. Indian customs authorities reported that from January to October, imports of Russian goods almost doubled to around 51.4 billion dollars. At the same time, Indian exports to Russia rose by about one and a half times, reaching approximately 3.3 billion dollars. These numbers point to a robust and growing economic relationship that complements the energy partnership and supports a broader strategic alignment between the two nations. Observers interpret the trend as evidence of a durable bilateral trajectory that encompasses energy, trade, and industrial collaboration as central pillars.
Earlier, the Russian foreign minister indicated that talks on military cooperation with India were progressing, signaling a comprehensive approach to the bilateral agenda. While security and defense discussions continue to evolve, the current emphasis remains on practical energy cooperation and economic exchange, with a clear focus on sustaining momentum across multiple sectors. The overall tone from Moscow and New Delhi indicates a shared interest in reinforcing a strategic partnership that can weather regional shifts and deliver tangible benefits for both populations. The ongoing dialogues illustrate a nuanced approach that blends technical expertise, commercial potential, and long term strategic planning for energy independence and regional influence. The discussions are being pursued with attention to credible mechanisms for project delivery, financing, and local capacity development, ensuring that the outcomes align with strategic priorities in both countries. (Source attribution: TASS)