New Delhi: India and Russia moved to reinforce their long-standing strategic partnership as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks in New Delhi on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit.
The meeting brought the two leaders together for the second time in less than two weeks. They had previously met on August 31 in Bishkek during the 26th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.
During Friday’s discussions, Modi and Putin reviewed the progress of bilateral cooperation across a broad range of sectors, including political and economic relations, defence, energy, space, skill mobility and people-to-people contacts.
The talks also covered India-Russia cooperation within the BRICS framework, particularly as India holds the grouping’s chairship in 2026.
Focus on Trade and Industrial Cooperation
Trade and industrial relations featured prominently in the engagement, with both sides highlighting the potential of initiatives aimed at expanding commercial ties.
The leaders welcomed INNOPROM India, Russia’s international industrial exhibition that was held in India for the first time from September 9 to 11. Modi and Putin also visited the exhibition and interacted with participating representatives.
The exhibition was viewed as an opportunity to expand business and industrial cooperation between the two countries. India and Russia are also working towards increasing bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030, with greater cooperation in areas such as manufacturing, infrastructure and energy forming part of the broader economic agenda.
Regional Conflicts and Maritime Security Discussed
The two leaders also exchanged views on international and regional developments, including the conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region.
The discussions included concerns over the impact of these conflicts on maritime commerce and the safety of Indian seafarers.
Modi reiterated India’s position that conflicts should be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy and said New Delhi remained prepared to contribute to peace efforts.
Putin Invites Modi to Russia
A key outcome of the meeting was an invitation from President Putin for Prime Minister Modi to visit Russia for the 24th India-Russia Annual Summit.
Modi accepted the invitation, while the dates for the summit will be finalised through diplomatic channels after consultation between the two countries.
The two leaders also agreed to maintain close engagement to further strengthen the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, which both sides say has remained resilient despite the changing geopolitical environment.
The latest meeting underlines the continued importance both countries attach to their strategic relationship, while expanding cooperation beyond traditional areas such as defence and energy into trade, industrial development, technology and other emerging sectors.
