Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Friday ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, where he is expected to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting is set to focus on defence ties, energy, nuclear cooperation, technology and the wider India-Russia strategic partnership. India will host the summit on September 12 and 13.
Defence ties
Defence ties are expected to be a major part of the Putin-Modi BRICS talks. The two sides are likely to review pending S-400 air defence system deliveries, possible BrahMos missile upgrades and broader military-technical cooperation. Discussions could also cover Russia’s Su-57 fighter proposal as India continues to stress joint production, technology transfer and domestic manufacturing.
The Prime Minister’s Office said Modi and Putin reviewed cooperation in defence, energy, space, economic relations and people-to-people ties during their August 31 meeting in Bishkek. Modi also reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the way forward in resolving conflicts.
Energy
Energy cooperation remains a key pillar of India-Russia relations. The two countries are expected to discuss oil and gas ties, energy security and opportunities to expand commercial cooperation despite geopolitical uncertainty. Both sides have also been working to broaden trade and investment beyond traditional sectors.
Nuclear
Civil nuclear cooperation may feature in the bilateral talks as India explores future reactor capacity. India and Russia have a long-standing partnership in nuclear energy, and any new project would require detailed technical, financial and regulatory negotiations before moving forward.
BRICS 2026
India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13. The Press Information Bureau said India’s 2026 chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” Its agenda covers development, finance, technology, trade and cooperation among emerging economies.
Putin is also expected to take part in summit sessions and BRICS-related business engagements as leaders discuss economic coordination, global governance and issues affecting the Global South.
Modi-Xi
Chinese President Xi Jinping is also expected in New Delhi for the summit, adding attention to India-China engagement. Trade, investment and the broader bilateral relationship are likely to feature prominently, alongside efforts to manage differences along the Line of Actual Control.
With Putin, Xi and other BRICS leaders gathering in the capital, the summit gives India an opportunity to advance its priorities on economic cooperation, technology, security and reform of global institutions while maintaining bilateral engagement with key partners.
