Roman Babushkin, Charge d’Affaires at the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, on Wednesday voiced optimism over the revival of the India-Russia-China (RIC) trilateral format, describing it as crucial for ensuring regional stability.
Addressing a press briefing in the capital, Babushkin said the trilateral mechanism, initiated in the late 1990s, had previously demonstrated its effectiveness at both ministerial and leadership levels.
“We are quite hopeful that this format will be resumed sooner rather than later because its importance is not questioned. We would welcome these developments since they proved their efficiency when regular interactions took place,” he stated, stressing that stability in the region largely depends on the cooperation among the three major powers—India, Russia, and China.
He also referred to upcoming engagements, particularly the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit scheduled in Tianjin, China, from August 31 to September 1. According to him, India has confirmed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation, while reports suggest a possible bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines.
On the global stage, Babushkin described the August 15 Russia-US summit in Alaska as a “breakthrough development,” noting that the talks were comprehensive and aimed at rebuilding trust rather than focusing solely on the Ukraine conflict.
“There are so many rumours and speculations about this summit. In fact, it was a breakthrough development, with leaders of major global powers engaging in a very warm, deep and prolonged conversation. The agenda was diversified, with restoration of relations and rebuilding trust being central,” he said.
Commenting on reports of additional US tariffs on India over Russian oil imports, Babushkin said some media suggested that President Trump may reconsider the move after the summit. However, he clarified that these reports were yet to be officially confirmed.
