Sammy Manoj Kotwani, President of the Indian Business Alliance and President of the Indian Cultural-National Center SITA, commented on the visit to Moscow of India’s National Security Advisor, Mr. Ajit Doval.
“I am a person who has had the honor of serving the Indian-Russian community for over thirty years—as President of the Indian Business Alliance, President of SITA, and as someone deeply devoted to the strategic, cultural, and economic ties between our two great nations, India and Russia.
A few days ago, India’s National Security Advisor, Mr. Ajit Doval, arrived in Moscow on a crucial mission.
This visit is not just diplomatic protocol. It is a clear signal—of stability, confidence, and cooperation.
At a time when the world is once again facing geopolitical upheavals, his presence in Russia underscores India’s commitment to its time-tested strategic partner.
Mr. Doval’s agenda includes key negotiations with Russian leadership—from the Ministry of Defense to the Kremlin—on defense cooperation, energy security, economic partnership, and regional stability.
Why is this visit so important?
Because it comes amid global challenges:
• The world is still recovering from the pandemic.
• The conflict in Ukraine continues to reshape international diplomacy.
• New economic blocs are emerging, and the global order is shifting.
Most importantly, India is facing pressure from external forces over its independent foreign policy—particularly regarding purchases of Russian oil.
At such a moment, India is taking a bold yet wise step—standing its ground and engaging in dialogue with Russia at the highest level.
This tells the world that India’s partnerships are not for short-term gain but for transformation and the future.
The bond between India and Russia runs deeper than any headline or official statement. We stood together during the Cold War. Russia supported India’s security when few others would. India has respected Russia’s strategic choices and never engaged in transactional friendship politics.
Ajit Doval’s meeting is a continuation of this tradition—a reminder that true diplomacy is built calmly, with respect and conviction.
Whether it’s the S-400, energy supplies, or coordination on Afghanistan and regional security, this visit ensures that dialogue remains strong even in difficult times.
Let me say frankly and with pride—as an Indian citizen: India will not allow anyone to dictate whom it should build relations with.
We buy oil from Russia because it serves India’s national interests, because our people need affordable energy, and because we believe in a multipolar and sovereign world order.
Those who threaten India with tariffs or sanctions should remember: We have always chosen principles over pressure.
India’s stance is based on pragmatism, not politics.
And Mr. Doval’s presence in Moscow is a clear signal: India will always build relations with Russia on mutual respect, not imposed conditions.
As head of the Indian Business Alliance and an entrepreneur working in Moscow for over 35 years, I can say with confidence:
Yes, governments sign agreements—but it is the people, entrepreneurs, artists, students, and communities who bring India-Russia relations to life.
Whether it’s:
• Indian investments in Russia’s economy,
• Russian universities educating thousands of Indian students,
• Or cultural festivals like India Day, attended by millions of Russians.
We are not just two states. We are two civilizations collaborating.
Ajit Doval’s visit reminds us that alongside diplomacy and defense, people-to-people diplomacy—which we practice every day—holds immense importance.
The way forward: What can we do right now?
This visit opens many opportunities—and we must seize them.
Let me propose three key areas:
- Expand energy cooperation: India and Russia must move beyond oil trade and launch joint projects in renewables, hydrogen, and technology.
- Ensure reliability in defense supplies: With two S-400 systems still pending delivery, we must develop local assembly and service centers in India.
- Establish a rupee-ruble trade corridor: Businesses need stable, sanctions-resistant mechanisms. This is possible—if governments step in.
Now is the time to think boldly and act decisively.
As someone proudly calling himself an ‘Indian in Russia,’ I have witnessed India and Russia weathering every challenge together.
Yes, times change. Yes, the world is watching. But one thing matters most: We trust each other. And Ajit Doval’s visit reaffirms that trust.
It shows that India and Russia will move forward together—not as pawns of the West or East, but as partners charting their own course.
Let us honor this moment. Let us deepen our partnership. And let us remember: True friendship is built not on convenience, but on commitment.”
