New Delhi:
Prime Minister Modi Returns From Productive Russia Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has just returned to Delhi after a significant two-day trip to Russia, where he took part in the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan. This visit was packed with important meetings with global leaders such as Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The Highlights of the BRICS Summit
PM Modi described the BRICS Summit in Kazan as “very productive.” He expressed his gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin and the people of Russia for their warm hospitality during his stay.
On social media platform X, PM Modi shared some memorable moments from his trip. He stated, “The BRICS Summit in Kazan was very productive. I had the opportunity to engage in discussions on various issues and to meet many world leaders. I thank President Putin, the Russian people, and Government for their hospitality. Here are the highlights.”
Meeting World Leaders
During his visit, PM Modi participated in two key sessions of the summit, focusing on various global issues. The videos shared by him showcased interactions with several international leaders. Notably, he met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
On Wednesday, PM Modi had a fruitful meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. Through his posts, he expressed his happiness about these interactions, declaring, “Happy to have interacted with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Kazan.”
Furthermore, he shared details of his discussions with Uzbekistan’s President, highlighting the importance of enhancing cooperation between India and Uzbekistan, including in areas like trade and cultural ties.
Significant Talks with China
In a pivotal moment for India-China relations, PM Modi held a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This meeting was particularly noteworthy as it was the first formal interaction between the two leaders in five years. The backdrop of this meeting was the recent agreement to resume regular patrols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.
Following their talks, PM Modi shared his thoughts, saying, “India-China relations are vital for the welfare of our nations and for peace and stability in the region and the world.”
He also expressed his pleasure in meeting Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, saying, “Glad to have met my brother, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan.”
Focus on Global Challenges
In his address at the BRICS Summit, PM Modi emphasized that the gathering was taking place during a period filled with uncertainties and challenges, including geopolitical conflicts, climate issues, and cyber threats. He urged the BRICS nations to adopt a people-centered approach to tackle these pressing concerns.
Additionally, he stressed the urgent need for the United Nations to adopt a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, noting the critical importance of combating terrorism globally.
PM Modi called on the BRICS countries to actively pursue reforms in global governance. He referred to the Voice of Global South Summits that India hosted during its G20 Presidency, suggesting that the group must prioritize the needs and perspectives of the Global South.
He mentioned the regional impact of the New Development Bank’s presence, particularly in GIFT city, India, and how it has created significant economic opportunities.
Encouraging Economic Growth
Continuing his address, PM Modi highlighted BRICS efforts to promote economic growth and development. He discussed initiatives aimed at trade facilitation in agriculture, building resilient supply chains, e-commerce, and creating Special Economic Zones, which he believes have contributed positively to the economies of the member nations.
He stressed the importance of prioritizing small and medium enterprises, indicating that the BRICS Startup Forum, which is set to launch this year, would add value to the economic agenda of BRICS.
Reiterating India’s commitment to green initiatives, PM Modi pointed out several programs like the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and the Green Credit initiative introduced during COP28. He invited other BRICS countries to collaborate on these crucial environmental initiatives.
Strengthening Ties with Russia
On Tuesday, PM Modi held a productive meeting with President Putin, following up on their discussions from earlier in the year. He invited Putin to visit India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit scheduled for next year.
During this meeting, several areas of collaboration were assessed, including political, economic, defense, energy, and people-to-people connections. PM Modi later mentioned on X, “I had an excellent meeting with President Putin. The bond between India and Russia is deep-rooted. Our talks focused on how to further strengthen our bilateral partnership across various sectors.”
This recent meeting in Kazan marked their second gathering within the year, having previously met in Moscow for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit in July 2024.
Engaging with Other Countries
PM Modi also engaged in discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, emphasizing the need to deepen their ties in forward-looking sectors. He mentioned, “Had a very good meeting with the President of Iran, Mr. Masoud Pezeshkian. We reviewed our relations and explored avenues to strengthen ties in the years to come.”
This visit to Russia signifies PM Modi’s second trip this year, with his previous visit happening in July for the annual India-Russia summit.
As PM Modi returns to India, his diplomatic efforts during this vital summit in Russia indicate a commitment to fostering international cooperation and addressing global challenges collaboratively. The next steps will be closely watched as BRICS nations work together toward a common goal of stability and growth.
