India, Russia Sign Protocol to Deepen Industrial Cooperation Amid Changes in Global Trade

New Delhi: India and Russia reaffirmed their partnership on Wednesday by signing a key protocol to enhance industrial cooperation in areas such as aluminium, fertilizers, railways, and mining technology. They finalized the agreement during the 11th Session of the India-Russia Working Group on Modernization and Industrial Cooperation, held in New Delhi.

The meeting took place at Vanijya Bhawan as part of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation. It was co-chaired by Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), and H.E. Mr. Alexey Gruzdev, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation.

The session occurred at a time when global trade is shifting, especially due to renewed U.S. tariffs affecting key sectors like steel and aluminium. India has felt the impact of these tariffs, leading to trade uncertainties with Washington. In this context, the India-Russia meeting gained additional importance as both nations look to diversify their partnerships and strengthen supply chains.

The discussions reviewed progress since the last meeting and focused on collaboration in modernization, mining, fertilizers, and railways. Key areas of interest included aerospace cooperation, such as developing a modern wind tunnel facility, producing small aircraft piston engines, and working on carbon fibre technology, additive manufacturing, and 3D printing.

Both countries also looked into joint ventures in critical minerals, rare earth extraction, underground coal gasification, and developing industrial infrastructure. They welcomed closer ties in the aluminium and railway sectors and committed to improving capacity building and technology transfer in mining and sustainable waste management.

The meeting wrapped up with the signing of a joint Protocol that reaffirmed both sides' commitment to strengthen industrial connections and enhance economic cooperation. About 80 delegates, including senior officials, industry leaders, and experts from both countries, attended the session.