Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed holding a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 22, during the BRICS summit in Kazan. This would be their second face-to-face meeting of the year.
Putin’s proposal for the meeting was made during a discussion with India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on the sidelines of the BRICS NSAs’ meeting in St. Petersburg. Doval briefed Putin on Modi’s recent visit to Ukraine, noting that Modi had personally requested him to do so.
Putin expressed his eagerness to meet Modi in Kazan, praising the momentum in the strategic partnership between Russia and India. He also lauded Modi’s efforts in strengthening India’s statehood and advancing its economy.
During his meeting with Doval, Putin conveyed his anticipation for Modi’s visit and suggested using the October 22 meeting to review the progress of agreements made during Modi’s recent visit to Moscow. He emphasized that the previous visit was “highly successful” and the follow-up work was progressing effectively.
Doval informed Putin that Modi was keen to discuss his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which Modi had encouraged Zelensky to seek dialogue with Russia to resolve the conflict. Doval also highlighted the success of Modi’s visit to Moscow in July, which left a positive impression on the Indian PM.
The BRICS summit, scheduled to take place from October 22-24 in Kazan, will provide a platform for Modi and Putin to further their discussions. According to Russian authorities, Modi has confirmed his attendance at the summit.
Putin’s proposal underscores the continuing robust engagement between Russia and India, aiming to advance their bilateral agenda and explore future prospects.
