NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a significant bilateral meeting in New Delhi on Friday, September 11, ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit hosted by India. The talks focused on strengthening the India-Russia strategic partnership and expanding cooperation across several key sectors.
The meeting comes ahead of the BRICS Leaders’ Summit scheduled for September 12 and 13. With India holding the BRICS chair in 2026, the Modi–Putin talks carry considerable diplomatic and strategic importance.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
Expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation was one of the major areas of discussion. India and Russia are looking to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, manufacturing, railways, steel, fertilisers and critical minerals.
The two countries are also seeking to build more resilient supply chains and expand economic cooperation despite continuing geopolitical uncertainties and changes in global trade patterns.
Energy Security Remains a Key Issue
Energy cooperation continues to be one of the strongest pillars of India-Russia relations. Russia remains an important energy partner for India, particularly at a time when global energy markets are facing geopolitical disruptions.
The leaders discussed continued cooperation in the energy sector, including oil supplies. India has maintained its energy engagement with Russia despite Western sanctions, stressing the importance of affordable and reliable energy supplies for its economy.
Defence and Strategic Cooperation
Defence cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions. The two sides are expected to continue working together in areas including defence technology, military cooperation and broader strategic partnership.
Cooperation in civil nuclear energy, space, manufacturing and skill mobility is also emerging as an important part of the wider India-Russia partnership.
Ukraine War and Global Conflicts
The ongoing war in Ukraine was another major international issue discussed by the leaders. India has consistently maintained that conflicts should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
The leaders also exchanged views on the situation in West Asia and other global developments. India is attempting to maintain its strategic relationship with Russia while simultaneously pursuing strong diplomatic and economic relations with Western countries and other major powers.
Putin Invites Modi for Next India-Russia Summit
The meeting also highlighted the continuation of high-level India-Russia engagement. Putin reportedly invited Prime Minister Modi to participate in the 24th India-Russia Summit, signalling that bilateral diplomatic engagement will continue beyond the BRICS gathering.
Putin arrived in New Delhi to participate in the BRICS Summit, which will bring together leaders from the expanded BRICS grouping.
BRICS 2026: A Major Global Platform
The Modi–Putin meeting takes place against the backdrop of an increasingly important BRICS grouping. The expanded bloc is discussing issues including global trade, financial reform, alternative payment mechanisms, energy security, supply chains and international conflicts.
The 2026 BRICS Summit is therefore significant not only for India-Russia relations but also for the future direction of the wider grouping. India is seeking to use its BRICS chairmanship to promote cooperation, resilience, innovation and sustainable development while maintaining a balanced approach to major geopolitical issues.
