India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Thursday, February 20, during the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg, hosted by South Africa. The discussion strengthened the enduring India-Russia partnership amid shifting global dynamics.

In a tweet posted on his handle, Dr.Jaishankar wrote: “Glad to meet FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia this evening in Johannesburg. Reviewed the continued progress of India-Russia bilateral cooperation. Discussed recent developments pertaining to the Ukraine conflict, including his Riyadh meeting. Agreed to remain in touch.” Lavrov’s recent talks in Riyadh on February 18 with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on the Ukraine war and U.S.-Russia diplomacy, were a key point of discussion, reflecting India’s interest in the conflict’s evolving landscape.

The ministers likely explored trade enhancements, SCO collaboration, and insights from Lavrov’s Saudi Arabia meeting. India, advocating dialogue to resolve the Ukraine crisis, balances its deep ties with Russia—a vital energy and defense partner—while amplifying the Global South’s voice at the G20 under South Africa’s presidency.

This exchange paves the way for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming Moscow visit, highlighting the resilience of India-Russia relations in a multipolar world.