Russian Foreign Minister pushes for Russia-India-China Revival: ‘The Time Has Come’

International News: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has reignited calls for a stronger Russia-India-China (RIC) partnership, declaring, “The time has come” to unite against Western efforts to divide these powers. Speaking in Moscow on May 29, 2025, Lavrov announced plans to visit India to advance this strategic troika, emphasizing its role in fostering a multipolar world.

Speaking at an event in Moscow on May 29, 2025, Lavrov emphasized the need to counter Western efforts to divide these powers. With plans to visit India next month, his remarks signal Russia’s intent to revive the RIC framework, fostering a multipolar world amid global geopolitical tensions.

A Call for RIC Unity

Lavrov’s statement comes at a time of heightened global divisions, with Western alliances like NATO pushing Indo-Pacific strategies that he claims aim to pit India against China. He described the RIC troika as a vital platform for cooperation on trade, security, and regional stability. “The West wants to pull India into anti-China games, but we trust India’s wisdom,” Lavrov said, urging closer collaboration. His comments, amplified on X, reflect Russia’s push to align with Asia’s giants to balance global power dynamics.

Strategic Importance of RIC

The RIC framework, established in the early 2000s, seeks to promote dialogue among Russia, India, and China on issues like counter-terrorism and economic growth. Lavrov highlighted its potential to address modern challenges, such as sanctions and trade disruptions. He pointed to India’s growing role in BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as evidence of its commitment to multipolarity. By reviving RIC, Russia aims to create a united front that leverages China’s economic might and India’s strategic influence alongside its own military and energy strengths.

Lavrov’s India Visit

“I will again meet my Indian friends to chart the path forward,” he said. The visit is expected to focus on trade agreements, defense cooperation, and aligning RIC goals. Indian officials have welcomed the outreach, with posts on X praising the enduring India-Russia friendship while stressing India’s independent foreign policy.

A Counter to Western Influence

Lavrov’s push for RIC revival is a direct response to Western efforts to isolate Russia and China. The initiative has sparked debate on X, with some users hailing it as a geopolitical masterstroke, while others question its feasibility given India-China tensions. As Lavrov prepares for his India visit, the world watches whether RIC can reshape global alliances.