Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The two leaders met at Bharat Mandapam to discuss key issues concerning India-Russia relations.
The meeting is expected to cover areas such as trade, defence and other strategic cooperation. Both countries are also working towards expanding bilateral trade, with a target of reaching $100 billion by 2030. The talks have gained added significance following India’s recent statement that it is willing to contribute to efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict if required. The discussions are being closely watched for any developments on defence and strategic agreements.
Putin is in India to attend the BRICS Summit, where leaders are discussing major global and economic issues. His meeting with Modi is also expected to reinforce the long-standing strategic partnership between India and Russia. Later in the day, PM Modi is scheduled to meet Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who is also attending the summit. Modi is also expected to hold a meeting with UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
The series of high-level meetings on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit highlights India’s active diplomatic engagement with major global powers on trade, security and international conflicts.