New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are expected to hold a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on September 11, ahead of the BRICS summit scheduled to take place in the capital.
The meeting is likely to provide an opportunity for the two leaders to review the progress of the India-Russia strategic partnership and discuss key areas of mutual interest.
Defence cooperation is expected to remain an important part of the talks. The two sides may also examine ways to expand cooperation in advanced defence technology and strengthen long-standing military ties.
Economic relations and bilateral trade are also likely to feature prominently. India and Russia have been seeking to deepen commercial engagement, particularly in areas such as energy and investment, while exploring mechanisms to make bilateral trade more efficient.
Energy cooperation could be another major focus, given Russiaโs importance as a supplier of crude oil and its longstanding partnership with India in the nuclear energy sector. The leaders may discuss expanding cooperation in civilian nuclear projects and other energy-related areas.
Ukraine Conflict May Also Figure in Talks
The Russia-Ukraine conflict and other major international developments could also come up during the discussions. India has maintained its independent position on the conflict and has repeatedly called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve differences.
Putinโs visit assumes significance as India continues to balance its longstanding strategic relationship with Moscow with its expanding engagement with the United States, Europe and other global partners.
BRICS Summit Adds Significance
The bilateral meeting is scheduled just before the BRICS summit, giving Modi and Putin an opportunity to coordinate their positions on issues expected to be discussed at the larger multilateral gathering.
The September 11 talks are therefore likely to serve as an important platform for both leaders to assess the current state of India-Russia relations and explore new avenues for cooperation amid shifting global geopolitical and economic dynamics.
