Modi, Putin hold strategic talks ahead of BRICS summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin held extensive talks on Thursday, focusing on strengthening the India-Russia partnership across multiple sectors. The bilateral meeting underscores New Delhi's commitment to maintaining robust ties with Moscow despite geopolitical complexities in the region.

Key discussions centred on expanding economic cooperation, with both leaders agreeing on measures to significantly increase bilateral trade. The two nations have set an ambitious target of achieving $100 billion in annual trade by 2030, up from current levels, reflecting the importance both countries place on deepening commercial engagement.

Civil nuclear cooperation featured prominently in the talks, with the two sides exploring new avenues for collaboration in this strategically important sector. India and Russia have a longstanding partnership in nuclear energy, and the discussions suggest plans to expand this critical area of mutual interest.

The talks come ahead of the forthcoming BRICS summit, where Modi and Putin are expected to coordinate on broader multilateral issues. The engagement reflects India's strategic positioning as it balances relations with major powers while advancing shared interests in South and Southeast Asia.