BRICS Summit: PM Modi Welcomes Putin at Bharat Mandapam
PM Modi welcomed Russian President Putin at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, marking significant diplomatic milestones for India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Russian President Vladimir Putin at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Saturday as the 18th BRICS Summit commenced under India’s leadership. This summit provides a vital platform for discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation among member nations in various sectors.
The BRICS Summit began with PM Modi greeting the delegates against the scenic backdrop of the iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, symbolizing India’s rich cultural heritage.
On Friday, PM Modi engaged in a series of high-level meetings, notably with President Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. He also consulted with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and addressed the BRICS Business Forum, which showcased India’s commitment to multilateral diplomacy.
The meeting with Putin marked the second encounter between the two leaders in 2023, following a previous discussion at the 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek in August. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted that these dialogues are crucial in reviewing and enhancing bilateral cooperation in political, economic, defence, energy, space, skill mobility, and cultural exchanges.
In addition to bilateral discussions, PM Modi and President Putin reviewed the implications of India’s BRICS chairship and explored avenues for India-Russia engagement in various multilateral forums. Key regional and global issues, such as conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region, were also significant topics during their talks.
In a significant diplomatic achievement, BRICS nations have reached a consensus on a Joint Statement, set to be released during the Summit today. Negotiations continued late into the night until 4 am on Saturday, addressing numerous contentious issues. India played a pivotal role in facilitating these discussions, working to reconcile differing views among member countries.
The upcoming Joint Statement signifies a united front among BRICS members, further enhancing India’s position as a mediator in complex international issues. This summit reflects India’s rising influence and diplomatic strategy in fostering collaborative efforts to tackle global challenges.


