National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held talks with Nikolai Patrushev, the Russian President’s aide and chairman of Russia’s Maritime Board, in Moscow on May 29.

The discussions reviewed progress on proposals from Patrushev’s visit to New Delhi in November 2025, emphasizing maritime connectivity, shipbuilding cooperation, and training sailors for operations in polar waters.The talks are significant for India’s energy security strategy as it explores new shipping routes to transport oil and natural gas.

The Arctic route, promoted by Moscow as an Asia-Europe trade corridor, could shorten shipping times and broaden India’s access to Arctic resources and newer trade networks.

Participants also exchanged views on regional and global developments and stressed the importance of deepening bilateral cooperation in strategic sectors.

This dialogue forms part of ongoing high-level engagement between India and Russia to strengthen maritime, security, and defence ties, with Doval attending the International Security Forum and related meetings in Moscow, including discussions with other regional partners and leaders.