This article delves into the objective causes and effects of energy cooperation between Russia and India on their bilateral relations in the Arctic region. The authors underscore the increasing strategic significance of the Arctic as a crucial area where the scientific and economic interests of both Arctic and non-Arctic nations converge. The late 20th century marked the Arctic’s emergence as a significant region in international relations, largely driven by energy-related developments. A key factor in this evolution was the initiation of oil field development on the North Sea shelf during the 1970s. Amidst escalating global challenges such as climate change and diminishing hydrocarbon reserves, water and energy security have become critical concerns. As the world’s third-largest energy consumer and a major importer, India faces an ever-growing demand for energy. Russia, a prominent global producer and exporter of oil and natural gas, is essential to addressing these needs. To meet the energy and resource demands of its rapidly growing young population, India depends on Russia’s economic engagement in the Arctic, which holds approximately 80% of the region’s oil and gas reserves. This paper examines the contemporary energy relations between India and Russia, outlining the principal challenges. The authors assess the prospects for cooperation and its impact on the geopolitical climate and economic development of both countries. Furthermore, the authors identify opportunities for expanding and deepening the bilateral relationship in the energy sector and other strategically important fields.
energy cooperation; Arctic; Russia; India; energy; Arctic strategy; Russian- Indian relations.