Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin convened for a significant bilateral meeting on Friday, September 11, 2026, during the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The leaders engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening economic and strategic cooperation between their nations, setting an ambitious target to increase bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030.
Key Areas of Cooperation Discussed
The talks are expected to have covered a broad spectrum of areas beyond traditional sectors. Industrial collaboration was a prominent topic, with plans related to INNOPROM initiatives in India. Both sides also explored greater cooperation in the rail sector, including tunnelling projects, and the development of the steel value chain. Efforts to boost business-to-business opportunities and broaden market access for companies from both India and Russia were also on the agenda.
Civil nuclear cooperation emerged as another major pillar, with discussions focusing on strengthening collaboration across the entire fuel cycle and life-cycle support. Additionally, the leaders addressed expanding opportunities for skilled Indian workers in Russia. Critical minerals and sustaining cooperation in the fertilizer sector through strategic joint ventures were also important points of discussion, aiming for comprehensive cross-sectoral collaboration.
Putin's First In-Person BRICS Since Ukraine War
President Putin's three-day visit to India marks his first in-person attendance at a BRICS summit outside Russia since the conflict in Ukraine began in February 2022. The 2026 summit itself takes place amidst a complex global economic landscape, characterized by challenges stemming from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the ongoing West Asia crisis including the Strait of Hormuz blockade, and evolving trade policies from the previous US administration.
During their meeting, Prime Minister Modi presented President Putin with a Russian translation of the ancient Tamil classic, Thirukkural. The two leaders were seen shaking hands and sharing a hug, underscoring the warmth of their interaction. Other world leaders attending the summit include Chinese President Xi Jinping, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, among others.
Strategic and Defence Engagements
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that both nations are exploring upgrades to the BrahMos missile system and remain committed to completing deliveries of the S-400 air defense system. Discussions also included the proposed supply of Su-57 fighter jets. Energy cooperation continues to be a strong area, with plans to negotiate India's new civil nuclear reactors. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the longstanding ties between India and Russia, based on a special and privileged strategic partnership.