Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan on Tuesday, emphasizing India’s belief in peaceful solutions to global conflicts, particularly the ongoing Russia-Ukraine situation. The meeting concluded with a warm embrace between the two leaders, underscoring the strong ties between India and Russia.
During the summit, which brings together Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, PM Modi praised the BRICS grouping for its expanding influence and welcomed the interest of additional nations seeking membership. “We have been in touch with all sides in the Russia-Ukraine problem.
It has always been our position that all conflicts can be solved with dialogue. We believe there should be peaceful solutions to conflicts. India is always ready to help bring peace,” he stated.
The summit is expected to culminate in the issuance of a “Kazan Declaration,” which will formally introduce five new members to the BRICS alliance, enhancing its global representation.
A connect like no other!
Thankful for the welcome in Kazan. The Indian community has distinguished itself all over the world with their accomplishments. Equally gladdening is the popularity of Indian culture globally. pic.twitter.com/5Tc7UAF9z3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 22, 2024
Strengthening India-Russia Relations
This marks PM Modi’s second visit to Russia this year, following his attendance at the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit in Moscow in July, where he was awarded Russia’s highest civilian honor, the Order of St Andrew the Apostle. Modi highlighted the special relationship between India and Russia, stating, “Russian-Indian relations have the character of a particularly privileged strategic partnership and continue to actively develop,” as noted by President Putin.
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India’s increasing purchase of Russian oil, amid tensions in the West over the Ukraine conflict, showcases the complexity of the geopolitical landscape. Despite Western sanctions aimed at Russia, India has maintained its stance of sourcing oil based on favorable deals for its citizens. “We will buy oil from anywhere we get a good deal,” PM Modi reaffirmed.
BRICS Summit as a Diplomatic Triumph for Russia
The BRICS Summit is being hailed by Russia as a diplomatic success, countering Western narratives that seek to isolate Moscow over its actions in Ukraine. Analysts suggest that by hosting the summit, the Kremlin aims to demonstrate that it retains significant allies and partners. Moscow has been strengthening ties with countries like China, Iran, and North Korea, positioning itself as a pivotal player in a shifting global order.
Political analyst Konstantin Kalachev noted, “This time, the Kremlin wants to show an alternative to Western pressure and that the multipolar world is a reality.” Despite skepticism from the United States, which downplays the potential of BRICS as a “geopolitical rival,” the summit reflects Russia’s ongoing efforts to assert its influence and foster a cooperative international environment.
