India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Nikolai Patrushev, aide to the Russian President and chairman of Russia's Maritime Board, in Moscow on May 29. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in maritime connectivity, defence, shipbuilding and other strategic sectors. Both sides reviewed the progress made on proposals that were discussed during Patrushev's visit to New Delhi in November 2025.

A key area of discussion was maritime cooperation between the two countries. The leaders examined ways to improve maritime connectivity and expand collaboration in shipbuilding. They also discussed training sailors for operations in polar waters, reflecting growing interest in Arctic navigation and trade.

The meeting holds particular importance for India as it looks to explore new shipping routes for transporting energy resources such as oil and natural gas. Russia has been promoting the Arctic route as an alternative trade corridor connecting Asia and Europe. The route has the potential to significantly reduce shipping time and improve India's access to Arctic resources and emerging trade networks.

The Arctic corridor could also help India diversify its shipping options and reduce dependence on traditional maritime chokepoints such as the Suez Canal and the Hormuz Strait. As global trade routes continue to evolve, the Arctic route is increasingly being viewed as a strategic alternative for energy transportation and commercial shipping.

Apart from maritime matters, Doval and Patrushev exchanged views on major regional and global developments. Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of expanding bilateral cooperation in strategic sectors and strengthening the long-standing partnership between India and Russia.

The meeting was part of continued high-level engagement between the two countries aimed at deepening ties in maritime affairs, security and defence cooperation. India and Russia have maintained close strategic relations, and recent interactions reflect efforts to further broaden that partnership.

Doval is currently in Moscow to participate in the first International Security Forum and the 14th Meeting of High Representatives for Security Matters. The events have brought together security officials from several countries to discuss emerging global challenges in an increasingly multipolar world.

During his visit, Doval has also held a series of bilateral meetings with senior officials to strengthen India's strategic partnerships. On May 28, he met Denis Manturov, Russia's First Deputy Prime Minister. The discussions focused on cooperation in key sectors, including defence, energy and space.

As part of the visit, the Russian side arranged a tour of the National Space Centre and the Joint Industry Information Centre of Roscosmos, Russia's state space corporation. The visit provided an opportunity to gain insights into Russia's advancements in the space sector and ongoing areas of cooperation between the two countries.

Doval also met Myanmar's National Security Adviser Tin Aung San. The two leaders discussed cooperation in security, defence and connectivity. They also exchanged views on regional developments and issues of mutual interest.

The series of meetings in Moscow highlights India's continued efforts to deepen engagement with important partners across its neighbourhood and the wider Eurasian region. Through discussions on security, defence, maritime connectivity, energy and space cooperation, India is seeking to strengthen strategic partnerships and expand collaboration in areas that are increasingly important for regional stability and economic growth.