India and Russia on Friday reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in space, science, and technology, underlining the strategic significance of their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.
In a joint statement after the 23rd India–Russia Annual Summit, the two countries highlighted ongoing cooperation between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Russian State Space Corporation Roscosmos for peaceful use of outer space. The partnership covers human spaceflight programs, satellite navigation, planetary exploration, and joint work on rocket engine development, production, and deployment.
On science and technology, both countries called for ramping up government-to-government, academic, and private sector collaboration to promote the application of critical and emerging technologies. Recognizing the strategic importance of critical minerals for emerging technologies and advanced manufacturing, the two sides expressed interest in deepening cooperation in the exploration, processing, and recycling of critical minerals and rare earths.
The leaders emphasized joint research in science, technology, and innovation and underlined the importance of strengthening cooperation under the “Roadmap for Science, Technology & Innovation Cooperation.” They agreed to facilitate collaboration between government and private sectors to harness opportunities for startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from both countries. This includes joint research and development, co-development of technologies, and initiatives addressing societal challenges through innovation.
The two sides also confirmed their interest in expanding cooperation in digital technologies, including information protection, critical infrastructure security, and law enforcement applications. They agreed to implement support programs for startups to enable knowledge exchange, capacity building, and greater engagement of innovators and entrepreneurs.
Building on the existing strong ties in science and higher education, India and Russia expressed mutual interest in strengthening partnerships between educational and research institutions. This includes academic mobility, collaborative educational programs, scientific and research projects, and hosting specialized international exhibitions, conferences, and seminars.
Both countries reaffirmed their readiness to expand cooperation within the framework of the Roadmap for Indian-Russian Cooperation in Science, Technology, and Innovations.
