Chapter 46: Negotiation with the Russian Minister
Early morning sun peeked from high conference room windows, stretching the length of shadows down onto the wood-smooth tabletop.
Animesh was sitting at the end of the conference table, flanked by Mahesh and other members of his inner core team.
Across the table sat his counterpart, Russian Defense Minister Dimitri Ivanov man in his mid-50s, grizzled but with eyes missing none of the detail. He was here for two very vital issues: cooperation over nuclear energy and, more so, the defense deals. And firstly amongst the latter, of course, air defense and missile systems.
The pressure in the room was not less than the gun pointing at the directly at your head, and both of them knew how much these negotiations weighed, whereby the future energy security and defense capability of India depended on this one negotiation.
However Animesh calmed himself and his mind, and was not distracted by its pressure. He knew full well that with the proper approach, a deal could be struck that would not only cater to Indian needs but also further relations with one of the world's most powerful nations.
"A pleasure having you in India, Minister Ivanov," said Animesh, respectfully.
"We have a long history of cooperation, and I am here today to discuss a future that shall be beneficial for both our nations."
Ivanov nodded. His lips have just crept into a slight smile while his eyes remained calculating. "Thank you, Prime Minister. Russia has always regarded India as a strategic partner, and I think the possibilities standing before us are enormous. I do hope you have looked at the proposals that we have sent concerning nuclear energy and defense systems?"
Animesh nodded in agreement. "We are interested in both areas; you would know that India wants and has been developing its energy and defense sectors quite fast. But we don't have enough money or experienced man power who could help. But we require partners who can bring in the required expertise and technology to take us to the next level."
Ivanov leaned forward, drumming his fingers on the table. "About atomic plants, Russia has the relevant experience and technology. The design of our nuclear reactors is at state in of the art, but at the same time safer and more efficient. We are prepared to assist in establishing nuclear plants across India where your country will meet its growing needs for energy while cutting down the dependency on fossil fuels.
Animesh listened to this and his eyes drew closer in thought. "I really do believe that atomic energy is going to play a large role in the future, mostly in our quest for cleaner energy. On the other side, we have the plants that indeed are at very great risk from natural disasters or even more so from some sort of assault. What kind of measures can you propose so that these places are safeguarded?
Ivanov's face turned more serious now. "State-of-the-art security systems at our nuclear plants, both physical and digital, have been developed. Advanced surveillance, right through to automated shutdown protocols, including electromagnetic pulse defenses-the safety of our reactors is one of utmost importance, and I do believe all such technologies can seamlessly adapt into the infrastructure of India."
(CCTV was made by a German scientist.)
Animesh nodded reflectively, "This is the kind of expertise we exactly need. But I am also concerned with the long-term sustainability and the economic viability that these projects may entail. India is a growing economy, and there is no room for any delays or efficiencies."
Ivanov said with confident assurance, "Rest assured that we have a record for implementation within time and budget. We highly value the fact how important this timeline is to you, so it is our intent to cooperate closely with India's best engineers and scientists with respect to completing all of these projects on time.
Animesh turned to Mahesh, who listened intently. He nodded subtly to indicate that what he had so far heard from the proposal was in order. "I'm inclined to move forward with this, Minister Ivanov. But I would like to include a provision for local workforce training. We want to make sure that in times to come, our engineers and technicians are equipped with the skills to operate and maintain these reactors independently."
Ivanov's eyes lit up with excitement. "That's a brilliant suggestion, Prime Minister; we would like to establish some joint training programs with the leading institutions in India. Dissemination of knowledge is a cardinal principle that we adhere to.".
Animesh then veered to the other big ticket issue at hand: the defense deal. "Now, coming to the defense sector, modernization of India's Air Force is proceeding at a very rapid clip and advanced air defense systems are desperately needed-particularly given growing regional tensions. We seek acquisition of more sophisticated missile defense systems and advanced fighter jets. In this area, Russian expertise is second to none."
Ivanov did not waste any time. "We can offer you one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world-the S-400 missile defense system. This has been very successfully deployed in Russia, and we are pretty confident that this would protect your airspace from any threat coming from outside. Now, as far as fighter jets go, we're in a position to provide Su-35 fitted out with state-of-the-art avionics, weapons systems, and unrivaled maneuverability.
Animesh leaned forward, his eyes ablaze with intensity. "We want the best, Minister. Our adversaries aren't standing still. We also want to make quite sure the technology of these systems is not only compatible with our existing infrastructure but also provides us long-term advantages. Will we be given access to the technology of these systems for future upgrades?
Ivanov let a moment of silence fall between them, his fingers rapping out a rhythmic pattern on the table. "Access to the technology is negotiable, Prime Minister. We can sell you the systems as is, and the upgrades will be taken care of through on-going contracts. But if you are prepared to commit to a long-term partnership, we can discuss the potential for joint development projects, amongst other ways of increasing technology transfer."
He kept his gaze for a few seconds, his fingers tapping gently against the table. "Long-term collaboration does sound good. India aims to develop her defense capabilities, and the joint development might be of benefit to both of them. But we must ensure that we keep our autonomy for future upgrades and changes. Can you guarantee us full control over these systems once they are in India?
"We can," Ivanov said with confidence.
"The systems will be fully under India's control, and you will be free to modify and upgrade these systems as you see fit. We'll provide continuous support and training for your personnel and keep your Air Force at the leading edge.
Animesh nodded in agreement, quite happy with the terms. "That does sound reasonable. Let us get this understood and go ahead with that. But I'd also want a clause there to be one on preferential pricing on spare parts and ongoing maintenance. We really do intend this to be a sustainable partnership."
Ivanov gave a slight smile. "We can accommodate such a request, Prime Minister."
A satisfied feeling that the parleys were taking the right shape made Animesh lean back in his chair. It was, in fact, high time that these discussions crystallized into a deal pertaining to a nuclear plant and sophisticated air defense systems, he knew, although further details still had to be hammered out. "Thank you, Minister Ivanov. I am very sure our partnership would further strengthen the ties between the two nations. I'll call my team for drafting, so that we can progress as soon as possible."
Ivanov had risen, extending his hand. "A pleasure, Prime Minister. Russia values the relations with India highly, and I'm sure this joint work will serve long into the future as a factor of benefit for both our countries.".
"And we hope, that we will also benifited from this coorperation, between India and Russia."
Both holding and shaking their hands with a smile.
"Since the meeting has been successfully co-operated, I have to leave, soon Mr.Prime Minister, Animesh. I hope you will give permission to us!" Ivanov said with relief on his face and then took the other minister of the Russia.
"Definitely...but before leaving, why don't you all try the delicius of our country. I think, this is already the time for the lunch...lets have it."
[I have mistake in earlier chapter that, i have mentioned the social media. I thought that TV and newspaper can also be considered a social media, but it's not. I will correct it later.]
[And if there is wrong somewhere, please feel free to remind me.
Thank you!]