Duma okays Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support pact ahead of Vladimir Putin’s India visit

New Delhi: In a major step to consolidate defence partnership, Russia’s lower house of parliament has ratified a key military pact ahead of President Vladimir Putin’s India visit on Thursday and Friday for the annual summit.

The Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (Relos) agreement endorsed by the State Duma sets the procedure for sending military formations, warships and military aircraft of Russia to India and vice versa, and the organisation of their mutual logistical support.

The established procedure will be used during joint exercises, training, humanitarian aid, disaster relief efforts and in other cases as agreed, an official said.

The agreement would grant India access to Russian naval ports along the Northern Sea Route, from Vladivostok to Murmansk.