St Petersburg, Russia – India continues to solidify its position as a key player in global economic discourse, with its growing influence in BRICS dialogue taking center stage at the 2026 St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF).
India a Top Participant at SPIEF
Alexey Valkov, Director of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, highlighted India's prominence, noting that it consistently ranks among the top ten participating countries at the annual gathering. Speaking to Business Today on the sidelines of SPIEF 2026, Valkov emphasized India’s significant role in discussions surrounding BRICS and emerging economic partnerships.
“India as a participating country at the St Petersburg Forum is always in the top 10 countries represented at SPIEF,” Valkov stated. He added that the BRICS agenda is a central theme at this year's forum, alongside engagements under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and ASEAN frameworks.
Deepening Russia-India Engagement
India’s sustained presence at SPIEF underscores the strategic importance both Russia and India place on bilateral trade, investment, and multilateral engagement. Valkov observed that Indian businesses have been consistent participants, leading to a deepening dialogue between Russian and Indian institutions over the years.
The Roscongress Foundation, which organizes SPIEF, has signed more than five cooperation agreements with various Indian organizations. These agreements aim to strengthen business and institutional engagement between the two nations. Additionally, Roscongress and its Indian partners jointly organized a business event in December, which was part of a broader program fostering high-level Russia-India engagement.
BRICS as a Platform for Emerging Economies
As Russia increasingly positions BRICS as a crucial platform for economic cooperation among emerging economies, India’s active involvement becomes even more critical. Valkov stressed the importance of continuing these discussions on the SPIEF platform and beyond, viewing the forum as part of a wider ecosystem designed to maintain year-round dialogue between Russia and its international partners.
The Roscongress Foundation also orchestrates other major international forums, including the Eastern Economic Forum, which focuses on the Asia-Pacific region, and Russian Energy Week, dedicated to the energy sector.