India and Russia have signed 16 Memorandum of Understanding, MoUs in several areas including oil and gas, nuclear energy and defence. The agreements were signed after the delegation level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi this afternoon. The two countries agreed on strategic vision to strengthen cooperation in peaceful uses of Atomic Energy. India has also agreed to expeditiously identify a 2nd site, in addition to Kudankulam, for Russian-designed nuclear power units in the country. Both the countries discussed collaboration between companies in oil and gas exploration and production as well as in LNG projects and supplies. Discussion also took place on potential for bilateral cooperation in outer space to advance societal applications.

Speaking after the talks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, Russia will remain India’s most important defence partner, even as New Delhi’s options have increased today. Mr Modi said, Russia has offered to fully manufacture in India one of its most advanced helicopters and India will follow it up quickly. He said Mr Putin is leader of a great nation with which New Delhi has a friendship of unmatched mutual confidence, trust and goodwill. The Prime Minister said, India and Russia have outlined an ambitious vision for nuclear energy of at least ten more reactors. Mr Modi said, the partnership and strong sensitivity of both the countries will be a source of strength to both countries. The Prime Minister said, the areas of priority for both the countries include – combating terrorism and extremism.