On Tuesday, Russia’s State Duma formally approved the important military agreement, Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS), with India. This strategic move precedes President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India, where he will participate in the annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaker of the Duma, Vyacheslav Volodin, remarked that Russia’s relationship with India is both "strategic and comprehensive," and the endorsement of this agreement is a pivotal step in strengthening bilateral ties. He stated that it would enhance mutual military cooperation and streamline harmony between the armed forces of both nations.
This agreement was signed on February 18 in Moscow by India’s Ambassador Vinay Kumar and then Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin. Under RELOS, military ships, aircraft, and units from both countries will be able to access each other's airbases, ports, and logistical facilities. The agreement includes refueling, repairs, technical support, and emergency assistance.
Useful Pact for Port Calls and Airspace Utilization
According to a government note, this approval will facilitate cooperation in areas such as joint military exercises, training, humanitarian assistance, and relief operations post-natural and man-made disasters. Furthermore, it will support the reciprocal use of ports for vessel docking and airspace.
Strengthening Indo-Russian Strategic Partnership
A note published on the Duma’s website by the Russian government highlights that this agreement will bolster not only operational cooperation but also invigorate long-term strategic partnerships. During Putin's two-day visit, several significant agreements are expected, particularly in the defense and trade sectors.
Approval of RELOS agreement by Russia's State Duma in anticipation of Putin's visit to India, signifying a reinforcement of the strategic partnership.
