Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and Russian President, Vladimir Putin have met on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan.
This came hours after Modi arrived in the central Russian city to attend the 16th BRICS summit.
Modi was warmly welcomed in Kazan by Rustam Minnikhanov, head of the Republic of Tatarstan. Modi also sampled traditional Tatar dishes, including chak-chak and salted karavai.
The conversation between Modi and Putin covered a range of topics, from global peace efforts to strengthening their long-standing partnership.
Addressing the Ukraine conflict, Modi reiterated India’s stance on peace, stating, “I have been in constant touch with you on the subject of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.”
“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. All our efforts give priority to humanity. India is ready to provide all possible cooperation in the times to come.”
Narendra Modi
The Prime Minister also emphasized the growing global interest in the BRICS grouping, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
He remarked that the bloc has made its name and several countries want to be members, highlighting the expanding influence and significance of the bloc in global affairs.
Putin Hails India-Russia Relations
In his opening remarks, Putin highlighted the strong cooperation between India and Russia within BRICS. “India and Russia are original members of BRICS,” he said, underscoring the depth of their partnership.
Reflecting on the closeness and understanding shared by the two nations, Putin added, “Our ties are like that you don’t require translation.”
“We greatly value India-Russia cooperation, as both our countries are founding members. We’re seeing enhanced collaboration between our legislatures, constant communication between our foreign ministers, and positive trade growth.”
Vladimir Putin
He also said that several critical decisions need to be made in Kazan to strengthen cooperation within BRICS.
During the meeting, President Putin also announced plans for the next Intergovernmental Commission meeting, scheduled for December 12 in New Delhi.
He expressed optimism about the ongoing cooperation between the two countries.
“Our projects are constantly developing. You have decided to open the Indian Consulate in Kazan. We welcome this. Our cooperation will benefit from the policies of India. We are very happy to see you and your delegation in Russia.”
Vladimir Putin
Modi, in return, thanked Putin for the warm reception and expressed his gratitude for the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
“It is a matter of great pleasure for me to have the opportunity to visit a beautiful city like Kazan for the BRICS Summit. India has deep and historical ties with this city. The opening of India’s new consulate in Kazan will further strengthen these ties.”
Narendra Modi
President Putin also reflected on their earlier engagements, adding, “I am very grateful to you for accepting the invitation to come to Kazan.”
Looking forward to the BRICS Summit, which included the participation of other global leaders, Putin remarked, “Today, we will participate in the opening ceremony of the BRICS Summit, and after that, we will have a dinner.” He added, “During the upcoming BRICS Summit today with other leaders, we should take some very important decisions.”
China’s Xi Jinping and other global leaders arrived in the Russian city of Kazan for a summit of the BRICS bloc of developing economies that the Kremlin hopes to turn into a rallying point for defying what some see as the Western liberal order.
The alliance that initially comprised Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa has expanded rapidly to embrace Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Turkey, Azerbaijan and Malaysia have formally applied to become members, and a few others have expressed interest in joining.
Observers see the BRICS summit as part of the Kremlin’s efforts to showcase support from the Global South amid spiraling tensions with the West and help expand economic and financial ties.
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