Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh to Visit Russia for Strategic Defence Engagements

India’s Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh is set to embark on a three-day official visit to the Russian Federation from December 8–10, 2024. The visit will focus on deepening bilateral defense ties and commemorating significant milestones in India-Russia military cooperation.

The highlight of the visit will be Shri Rajnath Singh’s co-chairing of the 21st meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) alongside Russian Defence Minister Mr. Andrey Belousov. The meeting, scheduled for December 10 in Moscow, will cover a comprehensive review of defence relations, including military-to-military collaboration, industrial cooperation, and technological partnerships. Both leaders will also exchange perspectives on pressing regional and global issues of shared interest.

A key event during the visit will be the commissioning of the Indian Navy’s latest multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, INS Tushil, at the Yantra Shipyard in Kaliningrad on December 9. Shri Rajnath Singh will officiate the ceremony, accompanied by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi. The frigate represents a significant advancement in India’s maritime capabilities and underscores the robust defence manufacturing partnership between India and Russia.

Shri Rajnath Singh will also pay homage to the valiant Soviet soldiers of World War II by laying a wreath at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow. His itinerary includes a special interaction with members of the Indian diaspora in Russia, emphasizing people-to-people ties that form a strong foundation for bilateral relations.

This visit underscores the strategic importance of India-Russia defence cooperation and highlights the nations’ shared commitment to enhancing global peace and stability.