Modi-Putin meeting at BRICS 2026: India-Russia ties move beyond defence to trade and technology
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit sent a clear message about the continuing strength of India-Russia ties. It was their second meeting this year, showing that regular high-level communication remains important despite a rapidly changing global geopolitical environment.
The two leaders reviewed cooperation in defence, energy, trade, space, technology, skill development and people-to-people contacts. The discussions also showed that the relationship is gradually moving beyond its traditional focus on defence and energy towards wider economic and industrial cooperation.
The INNOPROM India exhibition, held from September 9 to 11, was an important symbol of this shift. The participation of companies and industries from both countries highlighted growing interest in manufacturing, investment and technology partnerships. Modi and Putin’s joint visit to the exhibition further underlined the importance being given to economic ties.
Focus on Long-Term Economic Partnership
The leaders discussed the implementation of the Economic Cooperation Programme 2030 and ways to expand bilateral trade. For India, Russia remains an important energy partner, while Russia sees India as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies. Greater cooperation in infrastructure, energy, manufacturing and technology could therefore benefit both sides.
The two leaders also exchanged views on conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region. Modi reiterated India’s position that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, while stressing the importance of peace, trade routes and the safety of Indian citizens and seafarers.
Putin invited Modi to Russia for the 24th India-Russia Annual Summit, and Modi accepted the invitation. The two leaders agreed to maintain close contact to strengthen their “special and privileged strategic partnership.”
Modi also gifted Putin a Russian translation of Thirukkural, adding a cultural dimension to the meeting. Modi’s meeting with Putin on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit sent a clear message about the continuing strength of India-Russia ties. It was their second meeting this year, showing that regular high-level communication remains important despite a rapidly changing global geopolitical environment.
The two leaders reviewed cooperation in defence, energy, trade, space, technology, skill development and people-to-people contacts. The discussions also showed that the relationship is gradually moving beyond its traditional focus on defence and energy towards wider economic and industrial cooperation.