PM Modi arrives in Russia, hints at bilateral with leaders besides Putin

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday arrived in Kazan, Russia, for the 16th BRICS Summit, hinting at bilaterals with other leaders besides Russian President Vladimir Putin.

All eyes are on whether Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet in Kazan after India yesterday announced the resolution of LAC standoff in eastern Ladakh bringing to an end a four year long protracted dialogue process which began after Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed in Galway in April 2020.

In the departure statement ahead of emplaning for Kazan for a two day visit, PM Modi said India values the close cooperation within BRICS which has emerged as an important platform for dialogue and discussion on issues concerning the global developmental agenda, reformed multilateralism, climate change, economic cooperation, building resilient supply chains, promoting cultural and people to people connect, among others.

“The expansion of BRICS with the addition of new members last year has added to its inclusivity and agenda for the global good. Building upon the Annual Summit held in July 2024 in Moscow, my visit to Kazan will further reinforce the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia,” he said.

PM hinted at a possible bilateral with Xi when he said, “I look forward to meeting other leaders from BRICS as well.”