New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who just visited Ukraine following an official trip to Russia a little over a month ago, is expected to attend the upcoming BRICS Summit in Kazan. This would mark PM Modi’s second visit to Russia amid the ongoing conflict within two months. Russia, which is the current chair of BRICS, will host the summit in its southwestern city of Kazan from October 22-24.
This will be the first summit of the grouping after its expansion as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates joined as new full members on January 1 making it a 10-member bloc. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa are the founding members of the group.
During his conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, PM Modi confirmed his readiness to attend the Kazan summit. Following PM Mod's much-talked-about Ukraine visit, both the leaders spoke on phone and agreed on continuing bilateral communication at various levels. Russia and Ukraine are engaged in a conflict for over two-and-a-half years.
The two leaders expressed satisfaction with BRICS cooperation and Prime Minister Modi "confirmed readiness to participate in the integration's summit in Kazan in October held under Russia's chairmanship."
During his telephonic conversation with President Putin, PM Modi reiterated India's firm commitment to supporting an early, abiding and peaceful resolution of the conflict with Ukraine. "Exchanged perspectives on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and my insights from the recent visit to Ukraine. Reiterated India’s firm commitment to support an early, abiding and peaceful resolution of the conflict," posted PM Modi on X.
PM Modi's Visit To Ukraine, Russia
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday spent nearly nine hours in Kyiv on the first-ever visit to Ukraine by an Indian prime minister since it became independent over three decades back. India and Ukraine signed four agreements and resolved to enhance their cooperation in a range of key areas including defence, trade, pharmaceuticals, green energy and education.
Just a month ago, PM Modi was in Moscow to attend the 22nd India-Russia Summit. This was PM Modi's first trip to Russia since the beginning of the conflict. The last India-Russia dialogue was held in December 6, 2021, when Putin visited New Delhi.
During the visit, Putin hosted PM Modi for a private meeting and dinner at his residence in Novo-Ogarevo, clearly reflecting the importance Moscow attached to the Indian leader's visit. The two leaders were seen having a warm conversation in an informal setting. Putin also praised India's development and the achievements of Prime Minister Modi.
The prime minister was also conferred the ‘Order of St Andrew the Apostle’ award by President Putin for his contribution to fostering bilateral ties between the two countries. The award was announced in 2019.