Modi, Putin seek stronger ties as Russia calls for BRICS to counter West - Reuters

**Modi, Putin Seek Stronger Ties as Russia Calls for BRICS to Counter West**

New Delhi – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on the sidelines of the recent BRICS summit, underscoring a mutual desire to deepen bilateral cooperation while positioning the grouping as a strategic counterweight to Western influence. Both leaders highlighted the expanding economic clout of BRICS, with Putin noting that the bloc now accounts for more than 40 percent of global GDP. The discussion covered a broad agenda that included trade, defence, energy and technology, signaling a willingness to translate diplomatic goodwill into concrete projects.

During the talks, Modi reiterated India’s long‑standing “peace message” on the war in Ukraine, calling for a diplomatic resolution and offering India’s good offices to facilitate dialogue. While maintaining a neutral stance, the prime minister emphasized that stability in Europe is essential for global economic recovery—a point that resonated with Putin’s own call for BRICS nations to collaborate on “global energy and food security” to mitigate the impact of sanctions and supply chain disruptions. The two heads of state agreed to explore joint initiatives in renewable energy, agricultural research and critical minerals, areas where both countries see growth potential.

The meeting also featured symbolic cultural diplomacy. India’s Vice President expressed delight at Modi’s presentation of a classic Tamil literary work to Putin, a gesture intended to showcase India’s rich heritage and deepen people‑to‑people ties. Observers noted that such gestures, alongside the substantive policy discussions, reflect a broader strategy by both capitals to cultivate a resilient partnership that can withstand external pressures while advancing shared economic and strategic interests.