Today, India and Russia will conduct their first '2+2' dialogue in the national capital, where they will address crucial topics to further strengthen bilateral relations.

The newly established 2+2 discussion mechanism between India and Russia will hold its maiden meeting at the level of defence and foreign ministries.

In the meantime, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet for a meeting to discuss defence, trade and investment, energy, and technology.&nbsp; 
 
A detailed joint statement would be issued following the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russian Ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev had stated on Saturday.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inaugural-india-russia-22-dialogue-to-take-place-today-434413">Also read | Inaugural India-Russia 2+2 dialogue to take place today</a> 
 
India, Russia set to ink AK-203 rifle deal

Under the 'Make in India' programme, India and Russia are expected to sign an agreement to produce 7.5 lakh AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian Army.

The major attraction would be the AK-203 assault rifle deal.

The AK-203, which was created in Russia, will be manufactured in a new plant in Uttar Pradesh.

The specifics of the agreement have already been agreed upon in terms of quantity, pricing, and production method.

Over the course of ten years, 60,14,427 AK-203 rifles will be produced for India's armed services.&nbsp;

Watch | Putin-Modi bilateral meet today, defence ties to be discussed

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-modi-bilateral-meet-today-defence-ties-to-be-discussed-434479/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Itinerary and agenda&nbsp; 
 
PM Modi and President Putin will begin their summit talks at 5:30 p.m., according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), while the Russian leader will depart from Delhi at 9:30 p.m.

The day will start with a meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoygu, as part of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation.

Separately, S Jaishankar, the Indian External Affairs Minister, will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

At 11:30 p.m., the two countries' foreign and defence ministers will conduct a "2+2" discussion.

Before the 21st India-Russia summit, Prime Minister Modi and President Putin will meet one-on-one.

A banquet will also be held for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

(With inputs from agencies)

Today, India and Russia will conduct their first '2+2' dialogue in the national capital, where they will address crucial topics to further strengthen bilateral relations.

Today, India and Russia will conduct their first '2+2' dialogue in the national capital, where they will address crucial topics to further strengthen bilateral relations. The newly established 2+2 discussion mechanism between India and Russia will hold its maiden meeting at the level of defence and foreign ministries. In the meantime, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet for a meeting to discuss defence, trade and investment, energy, and technology. A detailed joint statement would be issued following the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russian Ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev had stated on Saturday. Also read | Inaugural India-Russia 2+2 dialogue to take place today India, Russia set to ink AK-203 rifle deal Under the 'Make in India' programme, India and Russia are expected to sign an agreement to produce 7.5 lakh AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian Army. The major attraction would be the AK-203 assault rifle deal. The AK-203, which was created in Russia, will be manufactured in a new plant in Uttar Pradesh. The specifics of the agreement have already been agreed upon in terms of quantity, pricing, and production method. Over the course of ten years, 60,14,427 AK-203 rifles will be produced for India's armed services. Watch | Putin-Modi bilateral meet today, defence ties to be discussed Itinerary and agenda PM Modi and President Putin will begin their summit talks at 5:30 p.m., according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), while the Russian leader will depart from Delhi at 9:30 p.m. The day will start with a meeting between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoygu, as part of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation. Separately, S Jaishankar, the Indian External Affairs Minister, will meet with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. At 11:30 p.m., the two countries' foreign and defence ministers will conduct a "2+2" discussion. Before the 21st India-Russia summit, Prime Minister Modi and President Putin will meet one-on-one. A banquet will also be held for Russian President Vladimir Putin. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin visit: Russian President to reach New Delhi today for India-Russia summit

With heated exchanges between the US and Russia due to heavy concentration of troops on the Ukraine border, scheduled for talks between the two countries, Russia’s growing dependency on China due to sanctions from the West, and Indian tilt towards the US with inclusion in Quad, the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India on 06 December 21, appears to be viewed differently by different world players.&nbsp;

Even in domestic debates, the public anger due to Chinese intrusion in Ladakh and the growing partnership of Russia and China, indicates that the visit is sensitive in the context of international geopolitical scenario; hence will require a delicate strategic balancing including the text of the joint statement, if issued at the end of the visit.&nbsp;

Notwithstanding the above, the visit is a scheduled 21st India-Russia Annual Summit, which couldn’t take place earlier due to coronavirus pandemic. There are many justified reasons to continue with the ‘Indo-Soviet Friendship Treaty (1971)’ matured into ‘Strategic Partnership (2000)’, which has stood the test of time till date, even during ongoing rough relations between China and India.&nbsp;

Why Russia matters to India despite Chinese embrace?

Despite the Indian effort for Atma Nirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing and SIPRI indicating a significant 33 per cent decrease in import of military hardware by India in recent years, it remains heavily dependent on Russian technology, maintenance, procurement of hardware and spares. For many decades Russians have been collaborating with India in its indigenous manufacturing programs and were amenable to the transfer of technology, which India was finding difficult to get from others.&nbsp;

It includes some major systems like nuclear-powered submarines, warships/frigates, nuclear reactors, space programmes and flagship projects like Brahmos.&nbsp;

The impending visit, besides deal to commence indigenous manufacturing of AK 203 Kalashnikov rifles, may see some forward movement in collaboration in manufacturing (including transfer of technology of very short-range air defence missile systems (VSHORADS), twin-engine helicopters to replace Cheetah and Chetak, up-gradation of inventory of MIG-29 and Sukhoi aircraft.&nbsp;

S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile system which India had signed in 2018 for $5.43 billion is a done deal, and the threat of CAATSA is unlikely to have any impact on the delivery schedule. It was chosen because it was most suitable for Indian requirements at that point in time.&nbsp;

There are also speculations of approximately ten agreements to be signed between the two countries, which could include the reciprocal exchange of logistics Agreement and 10-year military-technical agreement, besides Two plus Two dialogue to strengthen the existing strategic partnership.&nbsp;

While the US may be amenable to a waiver on CAATSA for S-400, in view of the common China challenge, but further deals may create some new friction points in the strengthening of Indo- US relations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a strategic context, Russia continues to be a favourable P5 member in the UN and continues to support India in various multilateral organisations like the UN, SCO, BRICS on crucial issues. It is a technological powerhouse, with one of the largest producers of military hardware, producing rugged equipment suited for a variety of terrain, where Indian forces operate.&nbsp;

While its nearness to China, its discomfort with Indian embrace to Quad, growing Indo-US partnership, and hardware sale to Pakistan, forces some of the opinion-makers in India to suggest divorcing Russia in favour of the US, but such opinions are marred by impracticality, ignorance of Indian hardware dependency on Russia and its track record of reliability of its partnership with India.&nbsp;

In its revised Military Strategy document Russia continues to name India as its partner along with China and has not delayed/defaulted on any hardware support to India, even during the standoff with China. The interest of both countries also coincides regarding concerns on the export of terror after the Taliban’s takeover of &nbsp;Afghanistan and resultant humanitarian crisis, which will certainly be a subject of discussion and may find some mention in a joint statement.&nbsp;

Reality of Sino-Russian Embrace

The much-publicised Sino-Russian embrace by Chinese media and Russian acceptance to go along has been due to economic compulsions due to increasing sanctions from the West, common adversary US branding both as competitors in security strategy documents. Objectively an expansionist, aggressive China seeking Sino-centric world order does suit Russia as well, which is looking for multilateral world order.&nbsp;

Chinese BRI has already side-lined the Eurasian dream, its technological theft like alleged hypersonic technology proliferation and increasing border claims in the previously settled border with Tajikistan are not to Russian liking.&nbsp;

Russia has made no commitment to back China’s misadventure in the South China Sea/Himalayas and China has also not made any commitment on Ukraine borders. Reiterating India as a strategic partner may be Moscow’s message to US and Beijing both. It is, however, impractical to expect Russia criticising China or Pakistan or India discussing the Ukraine issue during this visit, due to peculiar geopolitical equations, and Russians need for strategic and economic balancing.&nbsp;

Strategic Balancing by India

India and US have a commonality of Interest in most issues including tackling China, which has pushed India to become an important global strategic partner of the US, by its aggressive designs. There is a congruence of interest in most global issues between US and India in the current geo-strategic equation.&nbsp;

India stands with US and Quad in the context of Indo-Pacific and facing China challenge. India continues to do its best to respond to sensitivities and concerns of the US, at times risking some of its old relationships like Iran.&nbsp;

To accommodate US interest India reduced the import of oil from Iran, bearing a cost disadvantage, as Iran oil was being imported in Rupee terms, in crude form and attuned to existing refineries in India. India doesn't seem to be repeating the same mistake with Russians, who haven't done anything bilaterally which demands a divorce in mutual relationship. Moreover, the military capacity building of India also adds to the collective strength of Quad, which is in the collective interest.

Lately, India is trying to be self-reliant, as well as diversifying procurement from various countries including the US, France, Israel.&nbsp;

In the last decade, the defence procurement from Russia has gradually reduced from over 65 per cent approximately to nearly 49 per cent and correspondingly increased in favour of the US, Israel and France.&nbsp;

There is a noticeable upward trend in the purchase of US military hardware, as the year 2020 alone saw a purchase of $3.4 billion worth of US military equipment, indicating enough accommodation by India.&nbsp;

In a buyers' market, US has competitors to include Russia, Israel and France, and every country will make the sovereign choice to pick the best deal including India. India has also made a modest beginning in exporting 38000 crore Rupees worth of military equipment, as a step towards self-reliance, seeking the support of all the partners. &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

With heated exchanges between the US and Russia due to heavy concentration of troops on the Ukraine border, scheduled for talks between the two countries, Russia’s growing dependency on China due to sanctions from the West, and Indian tilt towards the US with inclusion in Quad, the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India on 06 December 21, appears to be viewed differently by different world players.

With heated exchanges between the US and Russia due to heavy concentration of troops on the Ukraine border, scheduled for talks between the two countries, Russia’s growing dependency on China due to sanctions from the West, and Indian tilt towards the US with inclusion in Quad, the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India on 06 December 21, appears to be viewed differently by different world players. Even in domestic debates, the public anger due to Chinese intrusion in Ladakh and the growing partnership of Russia and China, indicates that the visit is sensitive in the context of international geopolitical scenario; hence will require a delicate strategic balancing including the text of the joint statement, if issued at the end of the visit. Notwithstanding the above, the visit is a scheduled 21st India-Russia Annual Summit, which couldn’t take place earlier due to coronavirus pandemic. There are many justified reasons to continue with the ‘Indo-Soviet Friendship Treaty (1971)’ matured into ‘Strategic Partnership (2000)’, which has stood the test of time till date, even during ongoing rough relations between China and India. Why Russia matters to India despite Chinese embrace? Despite the Indian effort for Atma Nirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing and SIPRI indicating a significant 33 per cent decrease in import of military hardware by India in recent years, it remains heavily dependent on Russian technology, maintenance, procurement of hardware and spares. For many decades Russians have been collaborating with India in its indigenous manufacturing programs and were amenable to the transfer of technology, which India was finding difficult to get from others. It includes some major systems like nuclear-powered submarines, warships/frigates, nuclear reactors, space programmes and flagship projects like Brahmos. The impending visit, besides deal to commence indigenous manufacturing of AK 203 Kalashnikov rifles, may see some forward movement in collaboration in manufacturing (including transfer of technology of very short-range air defence missile systems (VSHORADS), twin-engine helicopters to replace Cheetah and Chetak, up-gradation of inventory of MIG-29 and Sukhoi aircraft. S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile system which India had signed in 2018 for $5.43 billion is a done deal, and the threat of CAATSA is unlikely to have any impact on the delivery schedule. It was chosen because it was most suitable for Indian requirements at that point in time. There are also speculations of approximately ten agreements to be signed between the two countries, which could include the reciprocal exchange of logistics Agreement and 10-year military-technical agreement, besides Two plus Two dialogue to strengthen the existing strategic partnership. While the US may be amenable to a waiver on CAATSA for S-400, in view of the common China challenge, but further deals may create some new friction points in the strengthening of Indo- US relations. In a strategic context, Russia continues to be a favourable P5 member in the UN and continues to support India in various multilateral organisations like the UN, SCO, BRICS on crucial issues. It is a technological powerhouse, with one of the largest producers of military hardware, producing rugged equipment suited for a variety of terrain, where Indian forces operate. While its nearness to China, its discomfort with Indian embrace to Quad, growing Indo-US partnership, and hardware sale to Pakistan, forces some of the opinion-makers in India to suggest divorcing Russia in favour of the US, but such opinions are marred by impracticality, ignorance of Indian hardware dependency on Russia and its track record of reliability of its partnership with India. In its revised Military Strategy document Russia continues to name India as its partner along with China and has not delayed/defaulted on any hardware support to India, even during the standoff with China. The interest of both countries also coincides regarding concerns on the export of terror after the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan and resultant humanitarian crisis, which will certainly be a subject of discussion and may find some mention in a joint statement. Reality of Sino-Russian Embrace The much-publicised Sino-Russian embrace by Chinese media and Russian acceptance to go along has been due to economic compulsions due to increasing sanctions from the West, common adversary US branding both as competitors in security strategy documents. Objectively an expansionist, aggressive China seeking Sino-centric world order does suit Russia as well, which is looking for multilateral world order. Chinese BRI has already side-lined the Eurasian dream, its technological theft like alleged hypersonic technology proliferation and increasing border claims in the previously settled border with Tajikistan are not to Russian liking. Russia has made no commitment to back China’s misadventure in the South China Sea/Himalayas and China has also not made any commitment on Ukraine borders. Reiterating India as a strategic partner may be Moscow’s message to US and Beijing both. It is, however, impractical to expect Russia criticising China or Pakistan or India discussing the Ukraine issue during this visit, due to peculiar geopolitical equations, and Russians need for strategic and economic balancing. Strategic Balancing by India India and US have a commonality of Interest in most issues including tackling China, which has pushed India to become an important global strategic partner of the US, by its aggressive designs. There is a congruence of interest in most global issues between US and India in the current geo-strategic equation. India stands with US and Quad in the context of Indo-Pacific and facing China challenge. India continues to do its best to respond to sensitivities and concerns of the US, at times risking some of its old relationships like Iran. To accommodate US interest India reduced the import of oil from Iran, bearing a cost disadvantage, as Iran oil was being imported in Rupee terms, in crude form and attuned to existing refineries in India. India doesn't seem to be repeating the same mistake with Russians, who haven't done anything bilaterally which demands a divorce in mutual relationship. Moreover, the military capacity building of India also adds to the collective strength of Quad, which is in the collective interest. Lately, India is trying to be self-reliant, as well as diversifying procurement from various countries including the US, France, Israel. In the last decade, the defence procurement from Russia has gradually reduced from over 65 per cent approximately to nearly 49 per cent and correspondingly increased in favour of the US, Israel and France. There is a noticeable upward trend in the purchase of US military hardware, as the year 2020 alone saw a purchase of $3.4 billion worth of US military equipment, indicating enough accommodation by India. In a buyers' market, US has competitors to include Russia, Israel and France, and every country will make the sovereign choice to pick the best deal including India. India has also made a modest beginning in exporting 38000 crore Rupees worth of military equipment, as a step towards self-reliance, seeking the support of all the partners. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Putin visiting India: Is it strategic balancing?

India's decision to export hydroxychloroquine has received praise from across the world and the Russian Envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev was the latest to laud India's move. Watch report.

Russia lauds India's COVID-19 response: Move to export HCQ 'Nobel'

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev lauded India's "Comprehensive efforts" that resulted in significant "decrease in the rate of infection". Incidentally, Russian FM Sergey Lavrov and Indian FM S Jaishankar spoke on COVID-19 crisis during which the upcoming BRICS FM Video meet, that is to take place on 28th of April was also discussed.

Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev speaks to WION

Russia's ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev has backed New Delhi's position on Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on the sidelines of the global conclave in New Delhi he said that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan and must never be raised at the United Nations.

Russia backs India on Kashmir, says Kashmir is a bilateral issue

Reaffirming close India-Russia strategic ties, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-is-new-model-of-international-contact-russian-envoy-to-india-261083">Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev</a> has said Moscow's ties with New Delhi is "second to none".

Speaking to WION, Kudashev said, "Our relationship with India is second to none. This is a relationship which is a privileged strategic partnership."

"We supply topmost technology and weapons, committed to Indian industries like nuclear," he added. &nbsp;

The comments come days before Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov's India visit next week. PM Modi will travel to Russia in May and a return visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin can be expected towards the end of the year.&nbsp;

On Kashmir, he reiterated his government's stand saying, "Kashmir is an internal matter of India, it belongs to the constitutional space of India. We always consider the internal affairs of your country."

When asked about the envoy's recent visit to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Kudashev said, while he hasn't received an "official invitation" but "as far as India inviting other envoys are concerned, it is a sovereign matter of India. I do not feel obliged to comment on the matter."

"No doubt as far as geopolitics in Kashmir is concerned, if somebody has some doubts or issues, let them travel, it is my personal comment," he said.&nbsp;

Russia is also going to train Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan programme the first Indian manned mission to space. On the programme, the envoy said, "space is established entity of our cooperation and we have been willing to contribute... based on our common conviction of peacefull and open outerspace".

Reaffirming close India-Russia strategic ties, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev has said Moscow's ties with New Delhi is "second to none". Speaking to WION, Kudashev said, "Our relationship with India is second to none.

Reaffirming close India-Russia strategic ties, Russian envoy to India Nikolay Kudashev has said Moscow's ties with New Delhi is "second to none". Speaking to WION, Kudashev said, "Our relationship with India is second to none. This is a relationship which is a privileged strategic partnership." "We supply topmost technology and weapons, committed to Indian industries like nuclear," he added. The comments come days before Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov's India visit next week. PM Modi will travel to Russia in May and a return visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin can be expected towards the end of the year. On Kashmir, he reiterated his government's stand saying, "Kashmir is an internal matter of India, it belongs to the constitutional space of India. We always consider the internal affairs of your country." When asked about the envoy's recent visit to the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Kudashev said, while he hasn't received an "official invitation" but "as far as India inviting other envoys are concerned, it is a sovereign matter of India. I do not feel obliged to comment on the matter." "No doubt as far as geopolitics in Kashmir is concerned, if somebody has some doubts or issues, let them travel, it is my personal comment," he said. Russia is also going to train Indian astronauts for the Gaganyaan programme the first Indian manned mission to space. On the programme, the envoy said, "space is established entity of our cooperation and we have been willing to contribute... based on our common conviction of peacefull and open outerspace".

Our ties with New Delhi second to none: Russian envoy to India

India's long-time ally Russia today came out strongly in support of India on the issue of abrogation of article 370 by the NDA government. Russian ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev said that abrogation of article 370 is an internal matter of India and is also India's sovereign decision.

India's long-time ally Russia today came out strongly in support of India on the issue of abrogation of article 370 by the NDA government. Russian ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev said that abrogation of article 370 is an internal matter of India and is also India's sovereign decision. "All disputes between India and Pakistan can be resolved through the Shimla and Lahore agreement and our view is exactly as that of India,” he said. India has always maintained that issues between India and Pakistan are bilateral innature and does not require mediation from any international power. Russia's views comes in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's high profile visit to Vladivostok, Russia’s pacific capital next week. The Indian prime minister will be the chief guest at the Eastern Economic Forum(EEF) being hosted by Russia. PM Modi is expected to hold a bilateral talks with President Putin during his visit. Kudashev’s deputy, Roman Babushki said that India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's comments on ‘no-first use’ of nuclear weapons is India’s internal matter. Russia's clear support to India on Jammu and Kashmir has once again proved that Pakistan hasn't been succuessful in internationalising the Kashmir issue and has failed to convince major powers on the issue. Pakistan's chief ally China has remained the sole exception in the case. The Russian ambassador said that the EEF in Vladivostok has become another promising platform for Russia-India business interaction like the Saint Petersburg Economic Forum or Vibrant Gujarat. Kudashev added that the summit will witness high level engagement and will lay the foundation of India-Russia relationship in trade, investment, energy, tourism and people-to-people interaction. “We do expect that this highly anticipated meeting between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi will extract new quality of bilateral special and privileged strategic partnership talking it to new heights.” Recently, India's commerce minister Piyush Goel visited Russia with a high level delegation which included 140 Indian businessmen. Russia’s Far East is sparsely populated but India has not taken the lead which Chinese have done in the area. There is a small diaspora in Vladivostok, but it is limited to diamond and tea sector. Lot of Indian students also go to Russia for medical degrees and Vladivostok also has a share of them. Russia wants trade with India to reach 30 billion dollars by 2025 which pales in front of China-India trade volume. Both nations trade volume is around 60 billion dollars. Russia was once closest strategic partner of India but over a period India diversified itself in both trade and defence with other countries. Russia wants to provide a new impetus to new forms of collaboration in military and military-technical cooperation, nuclear, hydrocarbon and alternative technology. To deliver S-400 in 2023 India will receive S-400 in 2023, Roman Babushek, Depyty Ambassador to India said and added that the delivery is on time despite intense American pressure on the Indian government to not to go ahead with the deal.

Russia backs India on abrogation of Article 370, says it's an internal matter

Russian ambassador Nikolay Kudashev has expressed deep sorrow over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-leaders-politicians-celebrities-to-common-man-all-flood-twitter-in-memory-of-sushma-swaraj-241242">demise of India's former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj</a>. In his message, the Russian ambassador said Swaraj will always "dwell in our hearts and memories".

"With a feeling of deep sorrow we came to know about premature passing away of #SushmaSwaraj. Please accept my deepest condolences on this irreparable loss of your predecessor, India's outstanding politician and diplomat," Kudashev said a statement to India's current Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

"She was well-known in Russia as a steadfast defender and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-lady-who-brought-foreign-policy-to-people-addressed-every-distress-call-241281">promoter of international interests of India</a> and its global power reputation. She was a sincere and true friend of Russia, greatly contributing to the strengthening of special and privileged strategic partnership. She will always dwell in our hearts and memories. May her soul rest in peace," he further added.

Swaraj, the 67-year-old BJP veteran, was taken to All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Tuesday night following a deterioration in her health. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-dignitaries-others-mourn-sushma-swarajs-demise-241258">She passed away</a> after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Watch: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at age of 67

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjps-most-prominent-women-face-passes-away-at-age-of-67-241268/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to sources at AIIMS, the 67-year-old was feeling restless at 9 pm and reached the hospital at around 9:30 pm in an ambulance.

A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm.

Swaraj was appointed the foreign minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014.

She opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons.

During her tenure, the BJP leader had been active and popular on Twitter reaching out to the Indian diaspora in distress for assistance.

Russian ambassador Nikolay Kudashev has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of India's former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj. In his message, the Russian ambassador said Swaraj will always "dwell in our hearts and memories".

Russian ambassador Nikolay Kudashev has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of India's former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj. In his message, the Russian ambassador said Swaraj will always "dwell in our hearts and memories". "With a feeling of deep sorrow we came to know about premature passing away of #SushmaSwaraj. Please accept my deepest condolences on this irreparable loss of your predecessor, India's outstanding politician and diplomat," Kudashev said a statement to India's current Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar. "She was well-known in Russia as a steadfast defender and promoter of international interests of India and its global power reputation. She was a sincere and true friend of Russia, greatly contributing to the strengthening of special and privileged strategic partnership. She will always dwell in our hearts and memories. May her soul rest in peace," he further added. Swaraj, the 67-year-old BJP veteran, was taken to All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Tuesday night following a deterioration in her health. She passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest. Watch: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at age of 67 According to sources at AIIMS, the 67-year-old was feeling restless at 9 pm and reached the hospital at around 9:30 pm in an ambulance. A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm. Swaraj was appointed the foreign minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014. She opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons. During her tenure, the BJP leader had been active and popular on Twitter reaching out to the Indian diaspora in distress for assistance.

Sushma Swaraj was a sincere & true friend of Russia, says ambassador Nikolay Kudashev

Russia's Ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev has said his country and India have a special and strategic relationship in the real sense of the word because of the efforts put in by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Speaking on the occasion of Day of Russia celebrations at the embassy on Tuesday evening, Ambassador Kudashev said, "The presence of Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at the celebrations to mark this day at the Russian Embassy in New Delhi not only reminded many of the glorious past which both countries so proudly cherish, but it also reflects the rebuilding of the trust, which according to some quarters has been fading."

Ambassador Kudashev thanked Swaraj for her personal valuable contribution in strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation between India and Russia.

Commenting on the friendship that exists between the two countries, Ambassador Kudashev said, "It is heartening to note that one of the first major international initiatives taken by newly born Russia was the signing of the Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation with India on January 28, 1993. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the document, as well as the 71st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries, which are one of a kind, rich in substance and unique in terms of mutual respect, trust and benefit."

"Russia and India may proudly boast of their durable and multi-pronged ties, defining the true essence of a special and privileged strategic partnership. Annual summits, held alternately in two countries, are key events of the year providing major boosts to further advance of bilateral cooperation," Ambassador Kudashev added.

Recalling the meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Sochi last month, Ambassador Kudashev said, "We have seen recently a new phenomenon - an informal summit - meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Sochi last month, which I had a privilege to attend and witness, the next annual summit is set for this October in India."

"While celebrating the Day of Russia, we can proudly note that it is people-to-people contacts and mutual affinity that really makes the Russian-Indian friendship so strong. It comes as no surprise that it is our common goal to continue fulfilling the inexhaustible potential of Russia-India trade, investment, technological, scientific and cultural interaction as well as strengthening our cooperation multilaterally in the near future and beyond. Friendship and strategic partnership of Russia and India has all the prerequisites to thrive and blossom for the security and prosperity of not only our nations but also the world at large," Ambassador Kudashev added

The Russian Embassy in New Delhi hosted a lavish reception on Tuesday evening to mark the day which saw the entire premises lit up in a colour theme matching with their national colours. The White Hall saw a gathering of hundreds of guests - influential Indian politicians and public figures, businessmen and officials, cultural and scientific celebrities, activists of Russian-Indian friendship societies, journalists and representatives of Russian companies.

The celebration was also attended by diplomats from various countries.

Highlighting the India-Russia friendship, Praveen Pathak, spokesperson, BrahMos Aerospace, said, "India-Russia relations are time-tested. If there was any country which supported India during sanctions was only Russia. We got all the support from Russia. India reciprocated in the same way and stood by Russia in the 90s when Russia was going through a difficult period. Joint ventures like Brahmos, which emerged in 1998 supported Russian defence industries and defence institutions in a big way."

"In fact, the first launch of Brahmos took place on 12th June 2001, on Russia Day. Today Brahmos is a shining example of India-Russia cooperation in the field of defence, which has been recognized by President Putin and PM Modi around the globe," Said Praveen Pathak, spokesperson, BrahMos Aerospace.

Udit Raj, Lok Sabha MP from North West Delhi, said, "Russia is our natural friend. But in later years we were more tilted towards western countries and the U.S. It is our mental block, which needs to be broken. There are tremendous business opportunities in Russia which need to be explored. Now, the time has come to strengthen friendly relations and to promote people's diplomacy between India and Russia to a new high."&nbsp;

Nikolay Kudashev has said his country and India have a special and strategic relationship in the real sense of the word

Russia's Ambassador to India Nikolay Kudashev has said his country and India have a special and strategic relationship in the real sense of the word because of the efforts put in by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Speaking on the occasion of Day of Russia celebrations at the embassy on Tuesday evening, Ambassador Kudashev said, "The presence of Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at the celebrations to mark this day at the Russian Embassy in New Delhi not only reminded many of the glorious past which both countries so proudly cherish, but it also reflects the rebuilding of the trust, which according to some quarters has been fading." Ambassador Kudashev thanked Swaraj for her personal valuable contribution in strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation between India and Russia. Commenting on the friendship that exists between the two countries, Ambassador Kudashev said, "It is heartening to note that one of the first major international initiatives taken by newly born Russia was the signing of the Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation with India on January 28, 1993. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the document, as well as the 71st anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our countries, which are one of a kind, rich in substance and unique in terms of mutual respect, trust and benefit." "Russia and India may proudly boast of their durable and multi-pronged ties, defining the true essence of a special and privileged strategic partnership. Annual summits, held alternately in two countries, are key events of the year providing major boosts to further advance of bilateral cooperation," Ambassador Kudashev added. Recalling the meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Sochi last month, Ambassador Kudashev said, "We have seen recently a new phenomenon - an informal summit - meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Sochi last month, which I had a privilege to attend and witness, the next annual summit is set for this October in India." "While celebrating the Day of Russia, we can proudly note that it is people-to-people contacts and mutual affinity that really makes the Russian-Indian friendship so strong. It comes as no surprise that it is our common goal to continue fulfilling the inexhaustible potential of Russia-India trade, investment, technological, scientific and cultural interaction as well as strengthening our cooperation multilaterally in the near future and beyond. Friendship and strategic partnership of Russia and India has all the prerequisites to thrive and blossom for the security and prosperity of not only our nations but also the world at large," Ambassador Kudashev added The Russian Embassy in New Delhi hosted a lavish reception on Tuesday evening to mark the day which saw the entire premises lit up in a colour theme matching with their national colours. The White Hall saw a gathering of hundreds of guests - influential Indian politicians and public figures, businessmen and officials, cultural and scientific celebrities, activists of Russian-Indian friendship societies, journalists and representatives of Russian companies. The celebration was also attended by diplomats from various countries. Highlighting the India-Russia friendship, Praveen Pathak, spokesperson, BrahMos Aerospace, said, "India-Russia relations are time-tested. If there was any country which supported India during sanctions was only Russia. We got all the support from Russia. India reciprocated in the same way and stood by Russia in the 90s when Russia was going through a difficult period. Joint ventures like Brahmos, which emerged in 1998 supported Russian defence industries and defence institutions in a big way." "In fact, the first launch of Brahmos took place on 12th June 2001, on Russia Day. Today Brahmos is a shining example of India-Russia cooperation in the field of defence, which has been recognized by President Putin and PM Modi around the globe," Said Praveen Pathak, spokesperson, BrahMos Aerospace. Udit Raj, Lok Sabha MP from North West Delhi, said, "Russia is our natural friend. But in later years we were more tilted towards western countries and the U.S. It is our mental block, which needs to be broken. There are tremendous business opportunities in Russia which need to be explored. Now, the time has come to strengthen friendly relations and to promote people's diplomacy between India and Russia to a new high."

Envoy credits Sushma Swaraj for strengthening Russia-India ties

The Russian envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev, said on Monday that Pakistan has taken "serious measures" to curb terror financing and shown the desire to be a part of global and regional efforts to fight the menace.

His remarks come as ties between Russia and Pakistan appear to grow.

In September last year, the two countries held a two-week long military exercise - DRUZBA 2017 - focusing on counter-terrorism operations to boost bilateral defence ties.

Kudashev, however, said it would not be correct to say that Russia was getting closer to Pakistan as Moscow's relations with New Delhi "are unique and second to no one".

The Russian envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev, said today that Pakistan has taken "serious measures" to curb terror financing and shown the desire to be a part of global and regional efforts to fight the menace

The Russian envoy to India, Nikolay Kudashev, said on Monday that Pakistan has taken "serious measures" to curb terror financing and shown the desire to be a part of global and regional efforts to fight the menace. His remarks come as ties between Russia and Pakistan appear to grow. In September last year, the two countries held a two-week long military exercise - DRUZBA 2017 - focusing on counter-terrorism operations to boost bilateral defence ties. Kudashev, however, said it would not be correct to say that Russia was getting closer to Pakistan as Moscow's relations with New Delhi "are unique and second to no one".

Pakistan has taken 'serious measures' to curb terror funding: Russian envoy to India