Putin Approves Defense Agreement with India: RELOS Signed
Overview of the Agreement
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a crucial military agreement with India, granting it federal law status. The agreement, called the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Support (RELOS), was approved by both houses of the Russian parliament earlier this year. This development highlights the strengthening defense ties between India and Russia.
Approval Process in Russia
The RELOS agreement had already been approved by both houses of the Russian parliament: the State Duma (lower house) on December 2 and the Federation Council (upper house) on December 8. It was then sent to President Putin for final approval, which has now been granted. This move officially establishes the agreement as a federal law.
Key Aspects of the RELOS Agreement
The RELOS agreement sets the process for the movement and logistical support of military personnel, warships, and aircraft between India and Russia. It also covers the logistical arrangements necessary for the deployment of military equipment and soldiers. According to an explanatory note from the Russian cabinet, the agreement regulates not only the deployment of military forces but also the logistics and support mechanisms tied to them.
Usage of the RELOS Agreement
The provisions of this agreement will be utilized in joint military exercises, training programs, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations, and any other mutually agreed circumstances. This will enhance the operational coordination between both countries in diverse military and peacekeeping activities.
Impact on Military Cooperation
According to a note published on the Russian parliament's website, the implementation of this agreement will allow India and Russia to use each other's airspace, station their warships at each other's ports, and further strengthen their bilateral military cooperation. Experts believe that this agreement will significantly boost the India-Russia strategic partnership and take defense cooperation to the next level.