'Sanctions are double standards': Russia slams Donald Trump’s tariffs on India; Putin to meet PM Modi in India with focus on trade ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are set to meet in New Delhi before the year ends, according to a Russian embassy official in India on Wednesday. The exact dates are still being worked out.

The announcement comes as Russia aims to strengthen trade ties with India by improving payment systems and removing trade barriers.The visit comes at a time when India's relations with the US have deteriorated, following New Delhi's hardening stance on opening its dairy and agricultural sectors as part of the trade deal. Adding to the tensions is the 25% additional tariff imposed by US President Donald Trump for India's purchase of Russia's crude oil.

US sees India's oil trade with Russia as an indirect financing of the Russia-Ukraine war.According to a Reuters report, the Russian embassy emphasized its commitment to developing better payment mechanisms with India to facilitate smoother trade operations. This move is particularly significant as both countries work to maintain their strong economic partnership despite global challenges.Taking a strong stance on international measures affecting trade, the Russian embassy criticized sanctions as showing double standards and disregarding national interests.

Speaking about trade relations, the embassy official highlighted Russia's determination to eliminate obstacles that might hinder commerce between the two nations. This includes streamlining processes and creating more efficient systems for business transactions.The embassy representative expressed confidence in the bilateral relationship, noting that both countries have consistently found ways to work together effectively, even when faced with difficulties.The upcoming meeting between Putin and Modi is expected to further strengthen the ties between the two nations. Both leaders have maintained close diplomatic relations over the years, regularly meeting to discuss bilateral cooperation in various sectors including trade, defence, and technology.This story is being updated