Russia defends growing proximity to Pakistan over arms supplies

NEW DELHI: Russia today sought to dispel impression of its growing proximity to Pakistan over arms supplies, saying there was no change in its policy in this regard.

Traditionally, Russia has adopted a policy of not supplying weapon systems to India's western adversary Pakistan but a number of its aircraft are in operational service with China.

"I will make a very short comment that we have not had any change in our legislation whatsoever," Russian defence Minister Anatoly Serdyukov told reporters here at a joint press conference with Indian Defence Minister AK Antony.

He was asked if there was any change in Russian policy of not arming India's adversaries.

Pakistan is seeking combat aircraft engines for its fighter aircraft being developed jointly with China and equipment for the mid-air refuelling aircraft such as the Ilyushin-78.

On speculation that he had cancelled his October 4 visit to India to meet Pakistan Army Chief Gen Pervez Ashraf Kiyani, Serdyukov said he had already apologised to his Indian counterpart for not being able to make it.

"I could not make it but the only reason I stayed back was due to participation in certain activities run by my supreme commander President Putin. It was the release of new transport aircraft IL-476. It is a huge contract and it is very promising," he said.

Serdyukov was earlier supposed to reach India on October 4 for the Defence Minister-level meeting but after it was postponed, speculation was rife that he had done so to meet the Pakistani army chief who was in Moscow on a three-day visit.