New Delhi: India and Russia reiterated their long-standing strategic partnership during the 22nd India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC), held on December 4, 2025, at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi. Co-chaired by India’s Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Russia’s Defence Minister Mr. Andrei Belousov, the meeting underscored the deep sense of trust, shared principles, and mutual respect underpinning the relationship between the two nations.
The high-level dialogue comes ahead of the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin.
Focus on Self-Reliance and Emerging Defence Technologies
During the meeting, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the Government of India’s commitment to enhancing the capability of India’s domestic defence industry. He highlighted the country’s focus on strengthening indigenous production and boosting defence exports under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
The Raksha Mantri also underscored the importance of exploring new opportunities for collaboration in niche and advanced defence technologies, signalling India’s interest in futuristic capabilities and strategic platforms.
Russia Offers Strong Support for India’s Defence Manufacturing Goals
Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to support India’s journey towards self-reliance in defence production. Stressing the “years of friendship and strategic cooperation,” he noted that the Russian defence industry stands prepared to work closely with India on co-development and co-production initiatives.
Mr. Belousov also extended an invitation to Mr Rajnath Singh to visit Russia in 2026 to co-chair the 23rd session of IRIGC-M&MTC, further strengthening institutional dialogue between the two sides.
Protocol Signed Outlining Future Cooperation
At the conclusion of the meeting, both ministers signed the protocol of the 22nd IRIGC-M&MTC session. The document outlines ongoing as well as future areas of cooperation in military and military-technical domains. The protocol is expected to play a crucial role in shaping bilateral defence initiatives in the coming years.
Homage at National War Memorial
Before the official discussions, Shri Rajnath Singh and Minister Belousov paid homage at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. They laid a wreath in honour of India’s brave soldiers and paid tribute to those who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.
The Russian Defence Minister also inspected the Ceremonial Tri-Service Guard of Honour, marking a dignified start to the day’s proceedings.
