Putin arrives in New Delhi for BRICS Summit as high-level delegations gather

Russian President Vladimir Putin touched down in New Delhi on Wednesday, marking the beginning of high-level diplomatic engagements surrounding the BRICS Summit. Officials anticipate that Putin will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of the summit preparations, underscoring the importance of India-Russia relations within the broader BRICS framework.

The arrival of Putin comes as New Delhi prepares to host a significant gathering of world leaders for the annual summit. Among those expected to arrive later in the day are Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, signalling the broad international participation expected at the event.

The BRICS grouping, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has increasingly positioned itself as a counterweight to Western-dominated global institutions. The New Delhi summit is expected to focus on deepening economic cooperation, addressing geopolitical tensions, and expanding the bloc's influence in international affairs.

India's hosting of the summit reflects its growing prominence within the BRICS framework and its role as a bridge-builder among member nations. The bilateral engagement between Modi and Putin is likely to address bilateral issues while also setting the stage for broader discussions during the formal summit proceedings.

Security arrangements across the Indian capital have been intensified ahead of the summit, with authorities coordinating with diplomatic missions to ensure smooth movement of delegations and their staff throughout the event.