Kathmandu— Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Thursday that India is among a growing number of nations expressing strong interest in utilizing and cooperating on the Northern Sea Route (NSR), a key Arctic shipping lane. This increased engagement comes as countries like India seek to develop trade with Russia despite Western sanctions, offering alternative passages for commodities between East Asia and Europe. The NSR, which runs along Russia’s northern coastline, is seen as significantly shorter than traditional routes via the Suez Canal, potentially saving up to 40% in distance and two weeks of travel time.

Expanding Trade Ties

India and Russia have been accelerating cooperation on the NSR following the operational launch of the Chennai-Vladivostok corridor earlier this year. This collaboration aims to help both countries reach their $100 billion bilateral trade target. Last month, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin directed Rosatom, the operator of the NSR, to draft a memorandum with India regarding maritime cargo transportation along the Arctic route.

Infrastructure and Investment

Russia is heavily investing in the 5,600-kilometer Northern Sea Route, aiming to establish it as a major international shipping lane. This includes maintaining a fleet of nuclear-powered icebreakers managed by Rosatom, which are crucial for keeping the Arctic waters navigable. Indian shipyards are also reportedly engaged in discussions about constructing non-nuclear icebreaker vessels capable of operating in the challenging icy conditions.

Strategic Implications and Access

The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS) pact formalized between India and Russia in December provides India with access to ports along the NSR, stretching from Vladivostok to Murmansk. Aleksey Chekunkov, Russia’s minister for the development of the Far East and the Arctic, noted that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Indian business community have demonstrated considerable interest in expanding trade relations with Russia's Far East.

Geopolitical Context

Putin also cautioned about rising tensions in the Arctic region as interest in the NSR grows. However, he emphasized that all cooperation on the route will adhere to international maritime law. The development of the NSR offers India an alternative shipping passage amid disruptions affecting traditional routes like the Suez Canal, particularly due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

With both nations actively pursuing collaboration and infrastructure development, the Northern Sea Route is poised to become a more prominent trade corridor connecting Asia and Europe.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.