Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held an extended bilateral meeting just a day before the BRICS summit commenced, reinforcing one of the most enduring diplomatic relationships in modern India foreign policy. The meeting, described as candid and comprehensive by sources familiar with the discussion, covered a wide range of bilateral and multilateral issues that have defined Indo-Russian ties for decades.
The two leaders discussed ways to further boost bilateral trade, which has seen remarkable growth despite global economic headwinds and sanctions on Russia. Energy cooperation remained a central agenda item, with both sides examining opportunities to strengthen coal, oil, and gas supplies. India continues to be one of Russia's largest buyers of crude oil, and the discussion focused on expanding payment mechanisms that bypass Western-dominated financial systems.
Security and defence cooperation was another significant area of dialogue. Russia remains one of India's top arms suppliers, and both leaders reviewed ongoing projects including the S-400 missile defence system delivery and potential collaborative production of military equipment in India under the Make in India initiative.
The war in Ukraine and its global implications were also reportedly discussed. While India has maintained a balanced stance, emphasizing dialogue and diplomacy, both leaders acknowledged the humanitarian impact of the conflict and the importance of stabilising global supply chains.
On the BRICS front, the leaders exchanged views on expanding the bloc's effectiveness as a platform for Global South representation in global governance reform. Discussions touched upon BRICS cooperation in trade, technology, and climate change, as well as the organisation's evolving role in offering an alternative to Western-led international institutions.
Foreign Secretary Viks DroMEA Misra and other senior officials accompanied PM Modi during the talks. On the Russian side, the meeting was attended by senior Kremlin aides and foreign policy advisors.
The bilateral discussions are expected to yield several joint statements and memoranda of understanding before the main BRICS summit plenary sessions begin, where the broader membership will negotiate collective positions on global economic and geopolitical issues.
