Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a trip to Russia to participate in the 16th BRICS Summit, which is being held in Kazan. Upon his arrival, he is scheduled to engage in bilateral discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In addition to his meeting with Putin, Modi is expected to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders from BRICS nations.

Before his departure, PM Modi highlighted the significance of India's cooperation within BRICS, describing it as a vital platform for addressing global issues such as sustainable development, climate change, reformed multilateralism, economic collaboration, and enhancing cultural and people-to-people ties. He also emphasized that his visit would further strengthen the "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership" between India and Russia.

This summit is set against the backdrop of ongoing global tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and instability in the Middle East. India’s Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, reiterated the country’s commitment to advocating for peace and resolution through dialogue. In a recent interview, he stated that India continues to urge parties involved in conflicts to seek solutions through diplomacy.

Last month, Russian President Putin referred to PM Modi as a “friend” and thanked India for its role in promoting a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine. This expression of gratitude followed PM Modi's earlier phone call to Putin, urging an end to the conflict. Modi also met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv in August to discuss the situation.

This marks Modi's second visit to Russia this year. In July, he attended the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit in Moscow, where he was awarded Russia's highest civilian honor, the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, after a bilateral meeting with Putin.

On the eve of the BRICS Summit, a significant breakthrough in India-China relations was announced. Both countries agreed to resume patrolling along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, signaling a step toward disengagement. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that discussions regarding a meeting between Modi and Xi were ongoing, though no specific timing was provided.

The two-day summit, centered around the theme "Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security," will serve as a crucial forum for leaders to address major global challenges. Additionally, it will offer an opportunity to evaluate the progress of ongoing BRICS initiatives and explore potential areas for future collaboration.