Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a key meeting in New Delhi ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, reviewing bilateral cooperation and discussing major regional and global developments.
The two leaders exchanged a warm embrace before beginning their discussions, marking their second meeting this year following their talks on the sidelines of the 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek on August 31.
During the meeting, Modi presented Putin with a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, the celebrated work of Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. The classical text includes extensive writings on agriculture and farmers.
The discussions are expected to cover a broad range of areas, including political and economic cooperation, defence, energy, space, mobility and people-to-people ties.
The two sides are also looking to expand industrial cooperation, including collaboration in the rail and tunnelling sectors, development of the steel value chain and increased business-to-business opportunities. Expanding access for Indian businesses to the Russian market is also expected to remain an important area of discussion.
Civil nuclear cooperation, including fuel-cycle and life-cycle support, is another key priority. The two countries are also exploring greater mobility cooperation, including opportunities for Indian skilled workers in Russia.
Cooperation in critical minerals and fertilizers is also expected to receive attention, with both sides looking at strategic joint venture projects to strengthen long-term supply chains.
The meeting comes shortly after the leaders’ talks in Bishkek, where they reviewed the outcome of the 27th India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic and Cultural Cooperation held in Moscow on August 24.
Modi and Putin also discussed India’s BRICS Chairship for 2026 and exchanged views on important regional and global developments. Their discussions included the conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region, which have affected maritime trade and the safety of Indian seafarers.
India has consistently maintained that dialogue and diplomacy remain the preferred means of resolving conflicts. Both leaders have also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.
The latest meeting underscores the continued importance of India-Russia ties as New Delhi prepares to host the BRICS Summit and seeks to advance cooperation across strategic, economic and emerging sectors.
