Days before Russian President Vladimir Putin lands in New Delhi for the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit on December 4–5, Moscow has signaled a major strategic reset in its Asian partnerships. Speaking at a high-level investment forum in Moscow, Putin declared that Russia is preparing to elevate its cooperation with India and China to an unprecedented “technologically driven” phase.

Putin said Russia’s goal is to push long-term collaboration with both countries into a “new qualitative era,” anchored in advanced joint ventures spanning defence, energy, manufacturing, agriculture, and space research. He stressed that Moscow is now prioritizing deep technological integration with its Asian partners as part of its long-term geopolitical strategy.

“We are strengthening cooperation with both the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of India, aiming to bring these relationships to a qualitatively new level,” Putin said, adding that multiple cross-sectoral projects are already underway to support this shift.

Major Defence Talks Expected in New Delhi

Putin noted that he maintains a “substantive economic dialogue” with Chinese President Xi Jinping and is looking forward to detailed discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on enhancing bilateral trade — particularly increasing Indian exports to Russia.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin has confirmed that defence cooperation will be a key pillar of Putin’s visit. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow is ready to discuss the sale of additional S-400 missile systems and explore India’s interest in the Su-57 fifth-generation stealth fighter.

“The Su-57 is the best aircraft in the world, and it will certainly be on the agenda,” Peskov stated, emphasizing that Russia is willing to share high-end defence technologies with India, similar to the existing BrahMos joint programme.

Nuclear Energy & Small Reactors Also on the Table

Peskov also hinted that nuclear energy could see a major push during the summit, including a potential agreement on next-generation small modular reactors.

“Russia has advanced, flexible small-reactor technology, and we have real operational experience. This could be offered to India as part of expanding peaceful nuclear energy cooperation,” he said, recalling Russia’s long involvement in India’s Kudankulam nuclear project.