New Delhi and Moscow have agreed to strengthen the special privileged strategic partnership

India and Russia have discussed ways of strengthening their economic partnership, focusing on cooperation in rare earths, aircraft parts manufacturing, and railways, officials said in a statement on Wednesday.

The discussions were held during the 11th Session of the India-Russia Working Group on Modernization and Industrial Cooperation in New Delhi, which coincided with US President Donald Trump's announcements of 50%tariffson Indian imports for New Delhi's continued purchases of Russian oil.

The working group focused on collaboration in science and technology, including wind tunnel facilities, aircraft engines, and carbon fiber tech. Opportunities in coal gasification and industrial infrastructure were also discussed.

The meeting concluded with the signing of a protocol which reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is in Moscow for a visit aimed at strengthening the defense and security partnership between Russia and India.

Indian media reports have indicated that Doval will discuss theacquisitionof more S-400 systems for India. New Delhi currently has three systems - part of a larger order of five purchased from Russia. They were put to use during the country's brief military confrontation with Pakistan in May.

Doval last visited Moscow in September 2024 and met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, with both sides highlighting the growing partnership.

"Our special privileged strategic partnership is gaining momentum and growing stronger, which we are delighted about. We are also pleased to see India's success in strengthening its statehood and advancing its economy under Prime Minister Modi's leadership," Putin had told Doval.

Following Doval's visit, Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar is also expected in Moscow later this month for talks with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, sources told RT.

(RT.com)