India and Russia discuss efforts to contain Covid-19

— Vinay Shukla

New Delhi, April 10 (DishaMoscow) — Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov held a telephonic conversation on Thursday to exchange notes on the evolving situation relating to spread of the Covid 19 pandemic and the respective national efforts underway in both countries to combat and contain it, The Economic Times reported quoting diplomatic sources . “The telecon was extremely warm taking forward PM and the Russian President’s last conversation in March,” sources added.

Both sides decided to be in touch for monitoring and facilitating the emergent needs of medicines and equipment on both sides, sources indicated. It may be recalled that Russia has supplied medical equipment to Covid-19 affected hotspots including USA and Italy.

The two senior officials reviewed situation about each other’s citizens in their respective countries (there are about 15,000 Indian students in Russia and about 5000 Russian tourists in India). Morgulov thanked Shringla for facilitating the evacuation of Russia nationals from India. Over 1,000 Russian nationals returned back via special flights.

Delhi will also consider Moscow’s request for supply of HCQ for treating arthritis and lupus (long-term autoimmune disease) in Russia in the backdrop of strong bilateral strategic partnership.