A highly indicative social media post from PM Modi as he embarks on visit to Russia and Austria.

"Over the next three days, will be in Russia and Austria. These visits will be a wonderful opportunity to deepen ties with these nations, with whom India has time tested friendship. I also look forward to interacting with the Indian community living in these countries", PM Modi wrote on X.

As the world is keenly watching the upcoming visit to Moscow, PM Modi describing Russia ties as time tested reveals a lot about the quality of relations and its future trajectory. The term 'time tested' with regards to Russia ties has frequently been used by EAM Dr S Jaishankar, the current India's foreign policy Czar.

With the rising volatility and unpredictability in the Western block nations and rise of far right parties coupled with the surge in nationalistic sentiments has also forced India to diversify its relations basket in a big way.

India keen on extending influence in its neighbourhood, is wary of China making inroads. Russia and Central Asia, could thus play a major role in ensuring energy security for the India led South Asia region. It is interesting to note that India has nearly dumped the former multilateral grouping SAARC (which included Pakistan) in favour of BIMSTEC, to boost trade and connectivity. The BIMSTEC foreign ministers meet is also expected on July 11.

It is also unmissable for the world that India Russia summit level meeting is happening as NATO countries congregate in Washington to chart the future trajectory.