Putin Signs Military, Logistics Support Pact with India into Federal Law

New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday approved an important military cooperation agreement with India as a federal law. This agreement was passed by both houses of the Russian Parliament this month. According to information released from the Kremlin, Russia's domestic legal process has been completed with the president's signature on this document.

When and how did it get approval from Parliament?

According to news agency PTI, this agreement was approved by the State Duma, the lower house of the Russian Parliament, on December 2. After this, on December 8, the upper house, the Federation Council, also approved it. After the approval of the Parliament, this document was sent to the President for final signature.

What is the name and scope of the agreement?

The official name of this agreement is Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS). Under this, India and Russia will decide the rules for providing logistics support to each other's military units. This includes provisions related to the movement of troops, operation of warships and military aircraft.

What will be included in logistics support?

According to the explanatory note prepared by the Russian Cabinet of Ministers, this agreement is not limited only to the deployment of military forces. Under this, logistics aspects like fuel, repairs, supplies and other technical support are also included. When a military unit of one country is deployed in the territory of another country, then these facilities can be used.

Under what circumstances will this framework be applicable?

This system can be implemented during joint military exercises, training activities, humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations. Apart from this, it can also be used in other situations with the consent of both the countries.

What are the provisions regarding airspace and ports?

According to the information published on the website of the State Duma, this agreement will make the process of using each other's airspace easier for the military aircraft of India and Russia. Besides, the formal rules related to stopping of warships at the ports of both countries will also be simplified.

When will the agreement come into force?

Despite the president's signature, this agreement will not come into effect immediately. For this, a formal exchange of ratification instruments between India and Russia is necessary. Only after this process is completed will the agreement be considered legally effective.

What is the connection with Putin's visit to India?

This agreement has come to light after President Putin's two-day visit to India on December 4. During this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had welcomed Putin. Formal talks between the two leaders took place the next day, which lasted more than two hours. After these talks, India and Russia agreed to approve the economic cooperation program till 2030.