Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin are scheduled to hold bilateral talks on September 11 during Putin’s upcoming visit to India for the BRICS Summit. Defence, energy and economic cooperation are expected to be major areas of discussion.
India and Russia have maintained close strategic relations for decades, particularly in defence and energy. The upcoming meeting is expected to provide an opportunity for both sides to discuss existing defence cooperation as well as possible future projects.
Energy is another major area of interest because India remains one of the world’s largest energy-consuming economies. Discussions are also expected to cover trade and economic cooperation, while both countries are exploring opportunities involving rare-earth minerals and other strategic resources.
The meeting takes place against a complicated international backdrop, including continuing tensions surrounding Russia’s war in Ukraine and pressure over countries purchasing Russian oil.
Putin’s visit is therefore being closely watched internationally. For New Delhi, maintaining strategic relations with Moscow while simultaneously strengthening partnerships with the United States, Europe and other countries remains an important diplomatic challenge.
The discussions on September 11 could provide indications of the future direction of India-Russia defence, energy and economic relations.
