Why are some countries uneasy about Narendra Modi’s bear hug for Vladimir Putin?
A mobility agreement allowing Indian blue-collar workers, such as those in construction, to seek employment in Russia.A naval training pact under which Russia will train Indian sailors for operations along the Arctic route. This is particularly significant, as the melting of Arctic ice opens up new shipping lanes.
For perspective, China has already used the Arctic route to dispatch its first commercial consignments to the UK.A defence manufacturing agreement to promote joint production in India of spare parts, components, and aggregates for Russian-origin arms and equipment. Under the Make-in-India programme, this will involve technology transfer and the establishment of joint ventures to meet India’s needs, as well as exports to mutually friendly third countries.Putin’s visit to India nearly coincided with French President Emmanuel Macron’s three-day trip to China.
With Trump in the White House, China suddenly doesn’t seem all that unappealing, reflected in a steady stream of European leaders visiting Beijing since the start of Trump 2.0.Beijing has been vocally supportive of multipolarity and free and fair trade, making it appear a more reasonable partner than the US.That said, Macron’s visit had mixed results. He was accompanied by Chinese President Xi on a rare trip outside Beijing to Chengdu, seen as a singular gesture.But beyond the optics, Macron did not secure assurances on a deal for 500 passenger aircraft from Airbus.
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