*Mumbai, India* – External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar underscored the deepening economic and strategic ties between India and Russia during his address at the India-Russia Business Forum in Mumbai. He emphasized Russia’s shift towards Asia since 2022, which has opened new avenues of cooperation for both nations, building upon a long-standing history of friendship and strategic alignment.Dr. Jaishankar outlined ten key areas of development to reinforce India-Russia ties:1. **Bilateral Trade Growth**: India and Russia’s trade has reached $66 billion, making the goal of $100 billion by 2030 highly achievable.2. **Trade Balance**: He highlighted the need to address the imbalance in trade flows between the two nations.3. **India-Eurasian Economic Union**: Launched in March, trade negotiations with the Eurasian Economic Union need accelerated efforts to achieve greater trade volume.4. **Investment Forum**: The first-ever bilateral investment forum, held in Moscow in April 2024, reflects growing economic cooperation.5. **Russian Far East Collaboration**: A cooperative program signed in July aims to stimulate investment and connectivity in the Russian Far East from 2024-2029.6. **National Currency Settlements**: Mutual trade settlements in national currencies are crucial for economic stability in today’s global environment.7. **Customs Agreement**: A bilateral agreement between customs authorities in May has enhanced trade efficiency.8. **Connectivity Initiatives**: Infrastructure projects like the International North-South Transport Corridor, Chennai-Vladivostok corridor, and Northern Maritime Route need continued focus to realize their full potential.9. **Make in India**: Growing Russian support for this initiative is expected to deepen bilateral business cooperation.10. **Cultural Connections**: Non-economic areas such as education and film are also seen as valuable contributors to the India-Russia partnership.Dr. Jaishankar emphasized that India’s rapid economic growth and technological leadership, combined with Russia’s resources, make the partnership highly complementary. He highlighted India’s demand in energy and fertilizers and proposed collaborative approaches to address global supply-demand imbalances. He also suggested customized Indian human resource programs for the Russian market, signaling an emerging global workplace.The India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission will convene in Delhi to review these areas of bilateral cooperation further.