“Russia considers India as a global power and an indispensable player in the emerging multipolar international system” said Mr. Maxim V. Kozlov, Consul General of Russia in Kolkata at

PARTHA ROY / 28th November 2024

BCC organised Special Session on ‘India-Russia Trade and Investment Synergies: Present and Future Perspectives’.
In his address, Mr. Maxim Kozlov highlighted the enduring strength of India-Russia friendship, emphasising their bond as ‘all-weather friends’ and not merely strategic partners. Consul General stated, “Despite global challenges, our ties have remained steadfast, built on principles of mutual trust, respect, and shared interests. Historically, Indo-Russian ties have been natural and enduring and not shaped by temporary circumstances.”
Mr. Kozlov highlighted how trade between India and Russia is on a positive growth trajectory. “Over the past 5 years, the trade volume has increased by five times, reaching USD 66 billion in 2024, registering a 9 percent rise in the first 8 months”, informed Consul General. Russia – India plan to do trade of USD 100 billion by 2030 .
Mr. Kozlov underscored Russia’s keen interest in expanding into new markets in India, including railways, pharmaceuticals, information technology, aviation, and cybersecurity, reflecting the evolving scope of their bilateral cooperation. Mr. Kozlov pointed out that the Russian market remains vast, particularly, due to withdrawal of Western brands. Russian Consul General urged the Indian businessmen to explore Russian markets and tap into the present and emerging opportunities offered by Russia. Mr. Kozlov stressed the need for India and Russia to deepen their collaboration across several key sectors, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics, waste management, transport and logistics, and urban development. He emphasized the importance of exploring new investment opportunities, particularly in critical metals such as cobalt, copper, lithium, and nickel mining. By leveraging their strengths in technology, innovation, and resource management, India and Russia can drive growth and transformation in these critical sectors.
The members of the business community expressed their interest in collaborating with Russian businesses in sectors like agro-processing, vehicle components, pollution control technologies as well as higher education.
Mr. Naresh Pachisia, Senior Vice-President, requeted Mr. Kozlov to initiate the setting up of a Trade Desk at Russian Consulate in Kolkata, on account of the emerging trade and investments developments between Russia and eastern India. Mr. Pachisia further emphasised that the Trade Desk will play a pivotal role in facilitating business networks between Indian businesses and their Russian counterparts.
Mr. Kozlov said his office will make efforts to promote trade between Russia and eastern states of India including West Bengal.