Modi and Putin Discuss Strategic Cooperation at BRICS Summit

Bilateral Talks at BRICS Summit

New Delhi, Sept 11: On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in extensive bilateral discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, focusing on collaboration in defense, energy, trade, and other significant areas.

The leaders shared insights on crucial regional and global issues, particularly the ongoing conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea, which have implications for maritime trade and the safety of Indian seafarers. Modi emphasized India's readiness to support peace initiatives.

This meeting is part of ongoing efforts by New Delhi and Moscow to deepen their economic ties, with a target of increasing annual bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030.

As per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Modi and Putin assessed advancements in their cooperation across various sectors, including political, economic, defense, energy, space, skill mobility, and cultural exchanges.

“The leaders discussed India-Russia collaboration in the multilateral arena, particularly within BRICS under India's chairmanship for 2026,” stated the MEA.

They also exchanged views on significant regional and global matters of shared concern, reiterating the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in conflict resolution, with India ready to assist in peace efforts.

Prior to the talks, sources indicated that topics such as enhancing industrial cooperation, collaboration in railways and tunneling, developing the steel value chain, and increasing access for Indian exporters to the Russian market were anticipated to be discussed.

Additionally, the two nations were expected to explore strengthening ties in civil nuclear energy, including fuel-cycle and life-cycle support, as well as greater collaboration in critical minerals.

Defense cooperation remained a pivotal area of focus. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov previously mentioned that both nations were considering upgrades to the BrahMos missile system, while Russia is committed to fulfilling the remaining deliveries of the S-400 air defense system and discussing the potential supply of Su-57 fighter jets.

The ongoing Ukraine conflict and the pursuit of a peace roadmap were also likely to be significant topics in their broader discussions. Modi and Putin last met during the SCO Summit in Bishkek on August 31, where Modi reiterated the need for dialogue and diplomacy.

The leaders expressed their support for Russia's International Industrial Exhibition, INNOPROM India, which took place in India for the first time from September 9 to 11, highlighting its role in enhancing trade and industrial relations. They also visited the exhibition and engaged with participants.

Putin extended an invitation to Modi to visit Russia for the 24th India-Russia Annual Summit, which Modi accepted. The MEA noted that the dates for the summit would be determined through diplomatic channels at a mutually convenient time.

Both leaders committed to further strengthening the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, which has shown resilience amidst geopolitical challenges.

Putin arrived in New Delhi earlier in the day for the BRICS Summit and was welcomed at the airport by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh.

India's BRICS Chairmanship for 2026 is centered around the theme, ‘Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability’.