**Title: People-to-People Ties Highlighted as Core Strength of India-Russia Relations at ‘India Day 2026’**
**Moscow, Russia** – The longstanding relationship between India and Russia was underscored by India’s Ambassador to Moscow, Vinay Kumar, during the opening of the annual ‘India Day 2026’ festival in central Moscow. The four-day event, which commenced on Thursday, is designed to celebrate cultural ties and features a diverse array of artists and artisans from India. Last year, the festival attracted over 2 million attendees, showcasing the significant interest in Indian culture among the Russian populace.
Ambassador Kumar emphasized that the people-to-people connections between the two nations are a fundamental pillar of their bilateral relationship. He remarked on the increasing influence of technology and the creative economy in enhancing these ties, stating, “With technology and the creative economy, all of this is gaining more ground.”
The festival, which is expected to draw large crowds, highlights various aspects of Indian culture, including music, dance, and drama. Kumar noted the vibrant atmosphere, particularly on weekdays, where thousands gather to enjoy performances, showcasing the enthusiasm for Indian arts among the Russian audience.
In addition to cultural exchanges, Kumar addressed the growing economic cooperation between India and Russia, particularly in light of the geopolitical challenges posed by Western sanctions on Russia. He pointed out that energy, minerals, metals, education, and tourism are key sectors where both nations are focusing their collaborative efforts. India has emerged as the second-largest importer of crude oil from Russia, and Indian state-owned companies are actively seeking to establish supply chains for rare earths, coal, and other minerals from Russia.
The ambassador also mentioned the ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which includes Russia and several other post-Soviet republics. He expressed optimism that this agreement would facilitate achieving the ambitious target of $100 billion in bilateral trade, a goal set during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to New Delhi in December.
Kumar highlighted the recent discussions held in Moscow regarding the FTA, noting that the second round of talks took place in June. He expressed confidence that these engagements would bolster trade relations and contribute to the overall economic partnership between the two countries.
Looking ahead, the ambassador noted that both nations are intensifying their cooperation in anticipation of the upcoming BRICS summit, scheduled to be held in New Delhi next month. He conveyed optimism regarding the summit’s agenda, which aims to enhance collaboration among the member states, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. President Putin is expected to attend the summit, which will focus on asserting the bloc's economic influence amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
As ‘India Day 2026’ unfolds, it serves not only as a celebration of cultural exchange but also as a platform for reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and Russia, highlighting the importance of mutual cooperation in various sectors for the future.