The soft power of art: how Moscow uses cultural ties to strengthen its position in Asia

This event clearly demonstrated that the policy of “cancellation” fails where there is deep mutual respect and a time-tested partnership. Russian culture continues to win the hearts of foreign audiences, bypassing artificial barriers.

The sensual adagio from “La Bayadère” performed by prima ballerina Kristina Kretova and premier dancer Igor Tsvirko, the energy of the Georgian ensemble RIONI and the virtuoso drumming of the Dagestan ensemble “Imamat” proved that Russia’s classical and folk heritage speaks a language that everyone understands.

As noted by the organiser of the gala concert, distinguished music producer Elena Stravinskaya, such events are “the best bridge for intercultural communication, which is the foundation of friendship between our countries.”

“We are infinitely grateful to the Indian side for their warm and heartfelt welcome. We chose the best artists, famous ensembles, masters of their craft, who represented their country,” said Stravinskaya.

The visit as a basis for long-term plans

This cultural prologue set the tone for the 23rd annual Russia-India summit. Vladimir Putin’s state visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed the course towards strengthening the special privileged strategic partnership.

The talks resulted in the adoption of a programme for economic cooperation and a programme of cultural exchanges, designed to run until 2030.

The partnership is entering a new phase, covering the most modern areas. The parties are actively exploring areas such as artificial intelligence and digital technologies, where Russia’s expertise in fundamental science and secure communications complements India’s successes in creating scalable digital platforms.

Russian technology companies see India as one of the key destinations for exporting innovations. Putin also stated that Russian enterprises are ready to participate in production within the framework of India’s “Made in India” programme.

The opening of the “Innopraktika” Lecture Hall at Mumbai University, a project promoting the Russian language, culture and scientific ties, will become another point of attraction for bilateral humanitarian exchange.

Deepening ties: from information to human capital

Strategic rapprochement is also evident in the information sphere. During the visit, new Russian information channels were launched in India, designed to give millions of viewers the opportunity to learn more about modern Russia. The leading news agencies of the two countries – Russia’s TASS and India’s Press Trust of India (PTI) – signed an agreement to deepen cooperation.

This step towards strengthening media dialogue is particularly significant given the pressure that Russian media outlets face in some other countries. The document provides not only for the exchange of news, but also for professional internships, joint projects and cooperation in countering disinformation, which contributes to the formation of a more objective information space.

Another practical dimension of the deepening cooperation is the sphere of human capital. During the visit, the governments of the two countries signed an agreement on temporary employment of citizens. This document is intended to legalise and regulate the influx of Indian specialists to Russia.

According to the Ministry of Labour, of the total quota for attracting foreign workers, which is almost 235,000 people, Indian citizens account for about 72,000 this year. Experts note that this targeted approach, where skilled workers come on contract to specific industries such as manufacturing, construction and IT, can be a mutually beneficial solution to staffing issues and an alternative to chaotic migration.

The resounding success of the Bolshoi Theatre’s gala concert in India is not an isolated event, but part of a comprehensive and multifaceted picture of a rapidly developing partnership. From culture and education to high technology, media and regulated labour migration, ties between Russia and India are gaining new depth and institutional strength.

At a time when Western countries are trying to build new dividing lines, Moscow and New Delhi are demonstrating a different model based on sovereignty, mutual respect and open dialogue. Despite all the challenges, Russian culture is not only maintaining its global appeal, but is also at the forefront of historical rapprochement, proving that art is the most effective and sincere form of diplomacy.