Why in the News?
On 10th December 2024, Rajnath Singh met with President Vladimir Putin after jointly presiding over the 21st session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military-Technical Cooperation alongside Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov.
- Political Features:
- Location: A transcontinental country spanning Eastern Europe and Northern Asia, bordered by the Arctic and Pacific Oceans.
- Bordering Nations: Shares borders with 14 countries, including China, Ukraine, Finland, and Mongolia.
- Key Organisation: Member of the United Nations Security Council (permanent), G20, BRICS, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
- Historical Context: Known for its role in the Cold War (1947-1991) and as a successor state of the Soviet Union, Russia remains a major global power.
- Geographical Features:
- Largest Country: The largest country in the world, covering 17.1 million km², spanning 11 time zones.
- Natural Resources: Holds the world’s largest natural gas reserves and significant oil and mineral deposits.
- Climate: Dominated by a continental climate with harsh winters, particularly in Siberia.
- Geographic Landmarks: Includes Lake Baikal (world’s deepest freshwater lake) and the Ural Mountains (natural boundary between Europe and Asia).
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