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'Indo-Russia relations go a long way'

(Yevgeny A Isaev, consular, trade, Trade Representation of the Russia Federation in India, in India since 1971, has been working for the Russian mission in various capacities. Isaev, a keen India-watcher - political and economical - believes that India and Russia share a deep-rooted relationship not just in world politics and economics, but culturally and morally.)

In recent times, trade and economic co-operation between India and the Russian Federation has been favourable due to a wide range of changes the two countries have experienced politically and economically. The two nations have always stressed on a long-term strategic partnership, and we are really waiting for further liberalisation for a further impetus to trade relations.

Besides tea, coffee, garments and medicines, Russia now wants to play a significant role in the modernisation and upgradation of several sectors in India, especially in the wake of economic reforms.

For instance, Russia is working on several projects with India for upgradation and moderniSation of thermal power projects, construction of power grids, changing from 400 kw. In coal mining, Russia is effectively assisting Indian in modernisation of big coal mining enterprises with modern technology.

The two countries are also working on joint ventures in the oil and gas industry - which will be implemented in India, Russia and other countries.

Co-operation in steel continues, of course. And Bhillai, Bokaro, Ranchi, Durgapur and Vishakhapatnam would not be what they are today, if it were not for our co-operation.

But with changing times, we have also honed our skills in other fields. Electronics, information technology, pharmaceuticals, bio-technology and civil aviation are areas where Russia wants to be very active and seeks joint ventures with India. The joint ventures would mean that both would elevate technical and production ties.

We can also provide India indigenious electronic material, like silicon and semi-conductors. We are working on a joint venture project in providing telecom and internet services for sending large volumes of information to vast territories through satellites.

In bio-technology, Russia is ready to co-operate in the production of pharmaceuticals and can also supply poly-vaccines and immuno-biological substances.

In civil aviation we have worked out a few mutually beneficial projects, such as designing light passenger and cargo aircraft.

Besides, we could also supply aircraft such as IL96s, TU204s, YAK 42s and AN38s to Indian Airlines.

But, if there is really anything that is going to lift trade relations - it is by increasing Russian-made products in the market, especially of machine-building equipment.

But improving economic co-operation ultimately depends on effectively, using better technologies. Besides, we should work out schemes of financial servicing bilateral trade.

Our relations go a long way - whether it was in the era of the Soviet Union or that of the Russian Federation. In fact, we were the first states to officially recognise India as soon as she got freedom. We are mature countries that have stood together in difficult times and have evolved together politically and economically. There is no way that either of us can afford to undermine the density of our relationship.

(As told to Neena Haridas)

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