PM Modi has been awarded the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Russia’s highest order of chivalry.
The Order of Saint Andrew, established by Tsar Peter the Great in 1698, is the oldest and most prestigious honor in Russia. It is named after Saint Andrew, the patron saint of Russia, and is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the state and society. Though abolished after the 1917 Russian Revolution, this revered order was revived in the post-Soviet era and continues to be awarded by the President of Russia today.
#WATCH | Russian President Vladimir Putin confers Russia's highest civilian honour, Order of St Andrew the Apostle on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. pic.twitter.com/aBBJ2QAINF
— ANI (@ANI) July 9, 2024
Over the years, this order has been bestowed upon various world leaders, symbolizing the deep respect and mutual cooperation between Russia and their respective countries. One of the most recent recipients of this honor is Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, who received the award in 2019 for his outstanding contribution to strengthening bilateral relations between India and Russia.
The ceremony, held at the Grand Kremlin Palace, was a testament to the strategic partnership and friendly ties that have been fostered over the years. Prime Minister Modi dedicated the award to the people of India, reflecting the collective spirit and friendship between the two nations.
Other notable recipients of the Order of Saint Andrew include Xi Jinping of China, Nursultan Nazarbayev of Kazakhstan, and Geydar Aliev of Azerbaijan. These leaders have been recognized for their efforts in promoting peace, stability, and development in their regions and beyond.
PM Modi-Putin Talks: Key Decisions
Here are the key decisions and developments of the Modi-Putin Talks during the visit:
Bilateral Trade Goal: $100 Billion by 2030
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin set an ambitious target to achieve $100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030. As of the financial year 2022-23, the bilateral trade between India and Russia amounted to US$ 49.36 billion. This commitment underscores the robust economic ties between India and Russia, aiming for substantial growth in trade relations over the next decade.
Trade Using Rupay and MIR Systems
India is open to enhancing trade with Russia using the Rupay and MIR payment systems. These systems ensure secure and efficient financial transactions, promoting smoother and more reliable trade relations between the two countries.
Participation in BRICS Summit in Kazan
Modi will attend the BRICS Summit (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) in Kazan this October. Russia is set to host this significant summit, marking another step in strengthening the cooperation among these major emerging economies.
Long-Term Oil Supplies Deal
India and Russia are exploring a long-term agreement on oil supplies. This potential deal aims to secure stable energy resources for India while bolstering Russia’s position as a key oil exporter.
While Modi’s visit comes amid global tensions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, India’s strategic partnership with Russia remains crucial. Prime Minister Modi’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering this relationship, ensuring that the ties between India and Russia remain strong and vibrant.
