Emerging Arctic influence: China's role in India-Russia Far East cooperation

The article published by the Firstpost platform examines the intricate dynamics of India-Russia cooperation, particularly in the Far East and Arctic regions, amidst the backdrop of increasing Chinese influence.

It centres around the outcomes of the 22nd Annual Bilateral Summit held in Moscow, where Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Russia’s highest civilian honour. Key agreements, notably the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation from 2024 to 2029 in the Russian Far East and Arctic, underscored their strategic partnership.

The 22nd Annual Bilateral Summit between India and Russia, convened on July 8–9, 2024, in Moscow, saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s return visit after nearly five years. The summit was pivotal, cementing the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between the two nations. A significant highlight was Modi being awarded the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, a testament to the deepening ties.

Central to the discussions was the MoU on "India-Russia cooperation in trade, economic, and investment spheres in the Russian Far East for 2024–2029". This agreement underscored their commitment to developing stable and efficient transport corridors, with a strong focus on initiatives like the Chennai-Vladivostok (Eastern Maritime) Corridor and the International North-South Transport Corridor. The utilization of the Northern Sea Route also featured prominently, reflecting strategic planning amidst changing Arctic dynamics due to climate change.

The Arctic’s diminishing sea ice has not only opened new shipping routes but also heightened geopolitical competition, notably involving the US, Russia, and China. The article explores how Russia’s actions, including its conflict with Ukraine, influenced Arctic geopolitics, leading to a temporary rift with the Arctic Council’s A7 members. This context underscores Russia’s strategic pivot towards closer cooperation with China in response to Western diplomatic isolation.

China’s increasing presence in the Arctic is a significant subplot, marked by economic investments, scientific research, and strategic manoeuvres like the "Polar Silk Road". Beijing’s pursuit of resources, including rare earth minerals and energy, has raised concerns among Arctic stakeholders about environmental impacts and territorial disputes.

India’s strategic interests in the Arctic are multifaceted, focusing on resource exploration and diplomatic engagement through institutions like the Arctic Council. The article underscores India’s proactive approach to Arctic governance, balancing geopolitical alignments while pursuing research and economic interests in critical minerals.

The evolving geopolitical landscape underscores the complexities and opportunities for India, necessitating a cohesive ‘Whole of Government Approach’ to maximize its Arctic engagement effectively. As India navigates these strategic waters, its interactions with Russia and other Arctic Council members are pivotal in shaping regional stability and global cooperation in the Arctic.