Russian deputy PM holds talks with Swaraj

In first high-level engagement between India and Russia after National Democratic Alliance government came to power, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry O Rogozin on Wednesday held extensive talks on crucial bilateral issues including trade and energy security.

They also deliberated on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Swaraj and Rogozin, who arrived in New Delhi early on Wednesday on a two-day visit, are understood to have discussed about preparations for the annual summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Putin scheduled during the course of the year.

Issues relating to economic cooperation, energy security and the deal for the third and fourth reactors of Kudankulam power plant figured in the talks.

Russia has in-principle agreed to the Indian nuclear liability law, paving the way for signing a contract for unit 3 and 4 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant.

Two units of KNPP have been set up by Russia in Tamil Nadu and the first unit has already been made operational.

India and Russia signed a general framework agreement on unit 3 and 4 in April this year after crossing the initial hurdles of the Civil Liability Nuclear Damage Act 2010.

After election results were out, Putin had congratulated Modi for BJP's "convincing victory" and hoped that both the countries will be able to achieve greater success and further bolster the relationship.

The Russian Deputy Prime Minister will call on the Prime Minister on Thursday. Rogozin is also scheduled to meet Defence Minister Arun Jaitley and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.

Image: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry O Rogozin

Photo courtesy: MEA/Twitter