In a significant meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the strength of India-Russia ties and expressed India’s commitment to global peace, especially in light of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The meeting, held ahead of the highly anticipated BRICS Summit, highlighted key bilateral and international issues, showcasing India’s diplomatic engagement at the highest levels.
Modi, emphasising the close relationship between the two nations, remarked, “My two visits to Russia in the last three months reflect our close coordination and deep friendship.” This statement underlined the frequency and importance of high-level engagements between the two countries. Modi’s visit to Russia, coming just months after the Annual Summit in Moscow in July, marks a critical moment in India-Russia ties. “Our Annual Summit in Moscow in July has strengthened our cooperation in every field,” he said, indicating the growing scope of collaboration between the two nations in areas such as defense, trade, energy, and technology.
The backdrop of Modi’s visit is the BRICS Summit, an important multilateral platform consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Modi stated, “In 15 years, the BRICS has created its special identity, and now many countries of the world want to join it.” His comments reflect the increasing relevance of BRICS as a global force in diplomacy and development. As BRICS expands its influence, more nations are expressing interest in joining, indicating its pivotal role in shaping the global political and economic landscape.
However, a significant portion of the conversation between Modi and Putin centered around the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. India has maintained a neutral stance, advocating for dialogue and peaceful resolution. Modi reiterated India’s position, saying, “As I have said earlier, we believe that the problems should be resolved in a peaceful manner. We fully support the early establishment of peace and stability.” India’s approach to the conflict has been one of balancing its strategic interests with its global image as a peace advocate, a position that Modi has consistently articulated on various international platforms.
Modi’s call for peace came in the context of deepening concerns over the protracted war in Ukraine, which has destabilized regional security and impacted global economies. While avoiding direct criticism of either side, Modi has positioned India as a potential mediator in the conflict. “India is ready to provide all possible cooperation in the times to come,” he assured, reflecting India’s willingness to contribute to peace efforts.
The meeting also saw discussions on broader geopolitical issues, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of a multipolar world. India, with its growing global stature, plays a crucial role in platforms like BRICS and the G20. Modi’s comments at this juncture reflect India’s desire to leverage its diplomatic influence for fostering stability and cooperation in an increasingly polarized world.
As the BRICS Summit approaches, Modi’s engagement with Putin underscores the importance India places on its relationship with Russia, while also asserting its independent foreign policy stance on global conflicts. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has complicated global diplomacy, but India’s balanced approach, as articulated by Modi, positions the country as a responsible global actor advocating for peace and dialogue.
Also read: Trinamool MP Kalyan Banerjee Smashes Glass Bottle in Fiery JPC Waqf Bill Meeting, Suspended
With Modi set to participate in the BRICS Summit, India’s leadership on issues of development, economic cooperation, and peacebuilding will be closely watched. The outcome of the summit could further shape the future direction of BRICS and the role India will play in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
