PM Modi's 3-Day BRICS Diplomacy: 15 Bilaterals Span Russia, China, Iran and Africa

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded an intensive three-day diplomatic marathon on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, holding 15 sit-down bilateral meetings with Heads of State and Heads of Government.

The engagements, which ran alongside the summit's multilateral agenda, extended India's diplomatic reach from Russia and China to Iran, Africa, Southeast Asia and the Gulf, while reinforcing New Delhi's chairship priorities of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.

A Packed Diplomatic Calendar

The bilateral meetings were in addition to pull-aside interactions with various world leaders and heads of international institutions, giving a broad sweep to India's diplomatic engagement during its BRICS chairship. Among the most significant were PM Modi's meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with discussions covering bilateral ties, regional conflicts, multilateral cooperation, border peace, maritime security and the priorities of the Global South.

On Sunday, PM Modi also chaired the BRICS session on "Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability: Shaping the Future for Inclusive Global Growth", where he outlined key initiatives under India's four priority pillars.

He said the grouping had placed emphasis on strengthening resilience amid growing conflicts, pandemics, climate disasters and supply-chain disruptions. He highlighted the BRICS Integrated Early Warning System for infectious diseases, Early Warning Data Integration Guidelines for disaster management and the BRICS Logistics Supply Chain Cooperation Framework.

Under innovation, he highlighted the BRICS Incubator Network, the proposed BRICS Start-Up Innovation Fund and the BRICS Network on Digital Agriculture, which will connect AI, geospatial technology and Digital Public Infrastructure with the needs of farmers.

The Prime Minister also said India had sought to ensure that BRICS cooperation remained inclusive and involved entrepreneurs, farmers, researchers, women, youth and ordinary citizens. "From my personal experience, I can say that the Global South countries' confidence in BRICS has grown, because within BRICS: Their voices are heard. Their experiences are respected. And solutions are developed not for them, but together with them," he said.

The Prime Minister said that the strength of BRICS lay in its diversity and cooperation and stressed that solutions developed within the grouping should be adaptable and accessible to the wider Global South.

Russia: Strategic Partnership Amid Geopolitical Uncertainties

PM Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 11 on the margins of the BRICS Summit. It was their second meeting this year, following their meeting on the sidelines of the 26th SCO Summit in Bishkek on August 31.

The two leaders reviewed bilateral cooperation across political, economic, defence, energy, space, skill mobility and people-to-people domains. They also welcomed Russia's International Industrial Exhibition "INNOPROM India", held in India from September 9-11.

The leaders discussed India-Russia engagement in the multilateral sphere, particularly BRICS under India's 2026 chairship, besides exchanging views on regional and global issues, including the conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region that have affected maritime trade and the safety and security of Indian seafarers. PM Modi reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy were the way forward in resolving conflicts and said India stood ready to assist in peace efforts.

The two leaders agreed to remain engaged to further strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia, which the MEA said continues to register significant growth and has shown resilience amid geopolitical uncertainties. Putin invited PM Modi to visit Russia for the 24th India-Russia Annual Summit, which the Prime Minister accepted.

China: Steady Progress and Border Tranquillity

On September 12, PM Modi met Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. The two leaders welcomed the steady progress in India-China bilateral relations since their last meeting in Tianjin in August 2025 and reaffirmed that both countries should take a strategic and long-term perspective of their ties. The two sides agreed that differences should not become disputes, while Modi highlighted the importance of three mutuals — mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interest.

PM Modi also stressed that peace and tranquillity in the border areas remained an essential basis for the continued development of bilateral relations and underlined the need for both sides to observe existing agreements and understandings on border-related issues. The two leaders expressed commitment to a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable resolution of the boundary question, proceeding from the political perspective of their overall bilateral relations and the long-term interests of the two peoples.

They also discussed people-to-people ties, cultural exchanges, business linkages and greater mobility, besides economic and trade issues, including structural trade imbalance, supply-chain issues and meaningful and predictable market access. The leaders agreed to continue expanding common ground on regional and global issues.

Iran: High-Level Participation Despite Challenges

PM Modi met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on September 11 on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. It was their second meeting in under two weeks, after they met on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek. The two leaders discussed various aspects of bilateral relations, with PM Modi thanking Iran for its regular, high-level participation in BRICS-related meetings despite the challenging circumstances.

They also exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia, with Modi reiterating India's consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. The Prime Minister underscored the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce and the safety and well-being of seafarers.

Africa And The Global South: Strategic Partnerships

On Sunday, PM Modi met Burundi President and African Union Chairperson Évariste Ndayishimiye. The two leaders stressed that the India-African Union partnership is a key pillar of cooperation within the Global South and discussed the early convening of the 4th India-Africa Forum Summit.

With South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, PM Modi reviewed the progress in diverse areas of cooperation and exchanged views on the multifaceted strategic partnership. In the context of the successful translocation of cheetahs from South Africa to India, Modi invited South Africa to consider joining the International Big Cat Alliance.

With Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima Mustapha, PM Modi reviewed the multifaceted India-Nigeria relationship, with discussions focusing on trade and investment, defence and security, energy, agriculture, health and digital technologies. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership.

PM Modi also met Ugandan Vice President Jessica Rose Epel Alupo and reviewed bilateral ties, with emphasis on technology partnerships, capacity building, knowledge sharing, investment facilitation and private-sector collaboration. PM Modi reaffirmed India's support to Uganda's 'Vision 2040'.

Southeast Asia, Central Asia And The Middle East

With Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., PM Modi discussed further cooperation in defence and security, trade and investment, space, railway infrastructure, fintech, education, tourism, science and technology, innovation and people-to-people ties.

PM Modi also met Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and reviewed cooperation in political, trade, defence and security, connectivity, energy, critical minerals, emerging technologies, creative economy and people-to-people ties.

With Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, PM Modi reviewed the strong momentum in the India-Egypt Strategic Partnership and discussed trade and investment, defence and security, technology, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments and stressed continued cooperation through BRICS to advance the priorities of the Global South.

On September 12, PM Modi met UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed and reiterated the significance of the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, built on political, cultural, commercial, energy and people-to-people ties. The leaders also discussed cooperation in strategic and emerging areas, including defence, space, nuclear energy, technology and innovation. They noted the announcement by the UAE's International Holding Company of an investment of $11.5 billion (approximately ₹96,600 crore) in an integrated greenfield aluminium project in Odisha.

PM Modi also met Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and welcomed Vietnam's participation in the BRICS Summit as a Partner Country. The two leaders reviewed bilateral ties and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual importance. With Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, PM Modi reviewed bilateral cooperation across trade and investment, defence and security, semiconductors, infrastructure, digital economy, energy, fintech, education, tourism and people-to-people ties.

PM Modi also met Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.

Engagement With The UN Secretary-General

PM Modi also met UN Secretary-General António Guterres on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. The two leaders underscored the significance of multipolarity and the need to reform multilateral institutions, including the UN Security Council, to reflect contemporary realities. They also discussed ongoing conflicts and freedom of navigation, sustainable development, human-centric AI, renewable energy and global food security.

The meetings came alongside the adoption of the New Delhi BRICS Leaders' Declaration, which expressed deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in West Asia and called for maximum restraint and avoidance of actions that could further aggravate the situation. 

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PM Modi's Diplomatic Victory, BRICS Leaders Adopt New Delhi Declaration 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that BRICS member countries had unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026, with no objections raised by any nation.

The adoption followed intensive negotiations aimed at bridging differences and achieving consensus on the joint statement. This marks a significant diplomatic success for India’s chairship of the summit.

The announcement came after a series of high-level bilateral engagements in New Delhi. On Friday, Prime Minister Modi held separate meetings with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Russian President Vladimir Putin and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. These discussions took place on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit, reflecting India’s active diplomatic outreach.

The summit was hosted by India under the theme “Building Resilience and Innovation for Cooperation and Sustainability.” Leaders gathered to deliberate on regional stability, economic ties and wider global challenges. The adoption of the declaration underscored the grouping’s ability to find common ground despite diverse perspectives.

Prime Minister Modi also held a bilateral meeting with Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye on Sunday. The meeting took place as leaders from BRICS member and partner countries convened in the capital for the two-day summit, which concluded the same day. The talks highlighted India’s engagement with African nations and its emphasis on amplifying the voice of the Global South.

India-Indonesia ties were in focus as Prime Minister Modi met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across a wide range of sectors. Modi described the interaction as warm and emphasised the continued expansion of cooperation between the two nations. Shortly after, President Subianto departed Delhi following his participation in the summit.

Prime Minister Modi also met South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on the sidelines of the summit. Their discussions centred on reviewing India-South Africa ties and exploring areas of bilateral cooperation. The meeting reinforced the importance of multilateral cooperation and shared economic priorities within the BRICS framework.

Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded a brief 24-hour visit to India, departing on Sunday after attending the summit. His visit provided insights into Beijing’s “Greater BRICS Initiative” and the trajectory of Sino-Indian relations. Xi’s presence underscored China’s strategic interest in shaping the future of the grouping.

Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the summit. Their talks focused on the Strait of Hormuz, with Tehran proposing an arrangement to allow more vessels to pass through the strategic waterway. Iran clarified that it would retain authority over which vessels could transit, while Oman sought to bring Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council states together for discussions.

The Delhi Traffic Police expressed gratitude to residents for their cooperation amid traffic restrictions during the summit. In a post on X, the police acknowledged that diversions had caused delays but appreciated commuters who followed advisories and used alternate routes to facilitate the safe movement of dignitaries.

Prime Minister Modi also held a bilateral meeting with Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Their talks focused on strengthening bilateral engagement between India and Kazakhstan as the summit concluded. Modi further met Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos, with discussions likely covering bilateral ties and cooperation across multiple sectors.

Highlighting the growing strength of the BRICS grouping, Prime Minister Modi shared a group photograph featuring leaders of member and partner countries, outreach invitees and heads of international organisations.

He described the gathering as a reflection of BRICS’ expanding global resonance and stressed the shared focus on cooperation, partnership and progress.

Women’s empowerment was also highlighted during the summit. Avarna Jain, Chairperson of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance, emphasised the role of women entrepreneurs in driving innovation, creating jobs and strengthening economic growth.

She called for greater support to help women-led businesses scale up, improve access to finance and expand into new BRICS markets. Jain argued that women’s economic empowerment should be viewed as part of a broader economic strategy rather than a sector-specific issue.

The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi concluded with the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration 2026, reinforcing India’s role as a consensus builder in a fractured global environment. The summit showcased India’s leadership in fostering resilience, innovation and cooperation among emerging economies, while advancing the collective voice of the Global South in global governance.

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BRICS Leaders Unite In New Delhi Declaration Against Unilateral Tariffs And Push Global South Voice

BRICS leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration in New Delhi, voicing serious concern over rising unilateral tariffs and non-tariff measures that distort trade and contravene World Trade Organization rules.

The expanded bloc sought to project unity on trade, geopolitics, and global governance.

The declaration was adopted unanimously at the BRICS Summit after India led sustained consultations to bridge differences among members, including over the Middle East conflict. Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally proposed the adoption of the declaration, noting that it encapsulated the essence of discussions and perspectives on global and regional issues while outlining priorities for strengthening BRICS cooperation. No objections were raised, and the declaration was adopted unanimously.

This consensus marked a significant diplomatic breakthrough, especially after BRICS foreign ministers failed to issue a joint statement in May due to differences between Iran and the United Arab Emirates. 

The achievement came against the backdrop of renewed hostilities between the United States and Iran, with tit-for-tat strikes resuming in their six-month-old war. Iran-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen have also tightened their grip in the Red Sea region.

The declaration expressed concern over the growing risks of nuclear danger and conflict, stressing that nuclear safeguards, safety, and security must always be upheld, including during armed conflicts. Indian officials described securing agreement amid ongoing conflicts and heightened Gulf tensions as a particularly complex diplomatic challenge.

Trade and economic cooperation were placed at the centre of the BRICS agenda. Leaders voiced serious concern over unilateral tariffs and non-tariff measures inconsistent with WTO rules.

The bloc condemned unilateral coercive measures contrary to international law, a recurring theme in BRICS discussions as members seek to reduce vulnerability to external economic pressure.

The declaration encouraged continued discussions to facilitate practical solutions for cross-border payments among BRICS countries, reflecting the bloc’s broader push to deepen trade and financial cooperation. India has been pressing members to strengthen trade cooperation, reduce barriers, and expand business opportunities, while positioning BRICS as a stronger voice in shaping global economic rules.

Opening the summit, Modi declared that BRICS had “come of age” and must translate unity and consensus into concrete results on the global stage. He emphasised the need to reform global institutions, including the United Nations Security Council, to ensure permanent representation for India and other emerging powers. Modi argued that the Global South, often at the forefront of crises but side lined in decision-making, must be given a stronger role in shaping the future.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the summit. Xi urged BRICS countries to stand on the “right side of history” by steering the international order towards greater equity and justice.

India, maintaining ties with the United States, Russia, Israel, Iran, and Gulf Arab states, is navigating competing geopolitical interests while using its BRICS chairship to push for greater economic cooperation and a stronger role for developing countries in global decision-making.

The BRICS grouping now comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. Established in 2009, the bloc has consistently sought a greater role for emerging economies in institutions such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and WTO.

The New Delhi Declaration thus represents both a diplomatic success for India and a collective statement by BRICS against unilateral trade measures, while reinforcing the bloc’s ambition to reshape global governance and amplify the voice of the Global South.

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Xi Jinping’s India Visit With Power Team Signals High‑Stakes Diplomacy

Chinese President Xi Jinping has landed in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, accompanied by two of his most powerful aides — Cai Qi and Wang Yi — signalling the high diplomatic weight of his visit.

This marks Xi’s first trip to India in nearly seven years, with a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to be closely watched for its impact on India‑China relations.

Xi Jinping arrived in New Delhi on Saturday morning at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He was received by Union Minister of State Jitin Prasada, underscoring the ceremonial importance of the visit. This is Xi’s first India trip since 2019, when he met Modi in Mamallapuram, and his fourth overall since 2014.

Travelling with Xi are Cai Qi and Wang Yi, two of China’s most senior officials. Cai Qi is a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and serves as director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee.

He is widely regarded as Xi’s right‑hand man and China’s second‑most powerful leader, having risen rapidly through the party ranks. His presence highlights the strategic importance Beijing attaches to Xi’s engagements in India.

Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister and a member of the CPC Political Bureau, is another key figure in the delegation. He has been deeply involved in India‑China diplomatic exchanges, particularly on the boundary issue.

Just weeks before Xi’s visit, Wang held extensive talks with India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval in Beijing during the 25th round of Special Representatives’ discussions. The two sides reached an eight‑point consensus, including advancing talks on boundary delimitation and border management, aiming for what both termed an “early and substantial harvest.”

Xi’s meeting with Modi is expected to be pivotal. It will be the third consecutive year the two leaders have met, following interactions in Kazan and Tianjin. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasised that Beijing seeks to act on the strategic guidance of the two leaders, handle relations from a long‑term perspective, step up communication, enhance cooperation, and properly manage differences.

She described China and India as “friends enjoying good‑neighbourliness and partners helping each other succeed.”

Xi will also address the BRICS Summit, engaging in in‑depth exchanges with other leaders on pressing issues such as the international situation, BRICS institutional development, and practical cooperation. He is expected to put forward new Chinese initiatives to chart the course for deeper BRICS collaboration.

The summit is taking place against the backdrop of the Iran‑US conflict and the Russia‑Ukraine war, with China advocating a common, cooperative and sustainable approach to security.

Mao Ning stressed that Beijing is committed to promoting political settlements of hotspot issues through dialogue and looks forward to working with BRICS partners to safeguard regional and global peace.

The Modi‑Xi meeting will be closely scrutinised for signals on the future of India‑China relations, particularly regarding the border dispute and wider bilateral engagement.

The visit comes amid cautious efforts to stabilise ties following the deadly Galwan clashes of 2020 and years of strained relations. Xi’s presence, alongside Cai Qi and Wang Yi, underscores Beijing’s intent to elevate the diplomatic significance of this engagement.

India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on 12 and 13 September. After the summit, China will assume the rotating BRICS chairmanship, further shaping the grouping’s agenda in the coming year.

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President Putin Stresses Reliable B2B Ties As Backbone of Global Economic Order At BRICS Forum

Russian President Vladimir Putin has emphasised that reliable business‑to‑business ties and economic partnerships form the backbone of international economic relations.

He stated that such ties help overcome the problems facing the world, as he addressed the BRICS Business Forum 2026 in New Delhi.

He remarked that the gathering demonstrated the growing interest in strengthening business contacts and relations across the BRICS space. He underlined that reliable economic partnerships build relations in a stronger and more resilient manner, enabling nations to confront global challenges more effectively.

Putin noted that the world is undergoing structural, deep and profound shifts. He explained that the so‑called old leaders, who were the vanguard of economic growth in the second half of the twentieth century, are being replaced by new engines of growth.

He clarified that the term old was only a formality, as these leaders still possess great strengths, well‑developed infrastructure and significant scientific achievements. He linked the importance of economic ties to these broader changes in the global economy, stressing that shifts in the international economic order are natural and continuous.

He added that it is in the nature of humanity and the economy that change cannot be stopped. He said the world is always changing, and this is attested to by objective facts observed in the last five years. 

Highlighting the growing economic weight of BRICS, Putin pointed to the contribution of BRICS countries compared with the G7. He stated that in the last five years, BRICS nations contributed more than 40 per cent of the world’s GDP, while the G7 accounted for only 29 per cent.

The BRICS Business Forum 2026 was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BRICS leaders, the Chairs of the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa were among the dignitaries present.

The Forum is the flagship private sector platform of the BRICS grouping and is convened annually in the Summit host country on the eve of the Leaders’ Summit. It brings together business leaders, Ministers and Heads of State to discuss trade, investment, finance, technology and development challenges shaping the BRICS economic agenda.

The Forum also serves as a platform where key ideas and suggestions from the Council are presented and discussed. It plays a strong agenda‑setting role, with its conclusions and the Business Council’s recommendations regularly reflected in BRICS Summit declarations and follow‑up work plans.

The recommendations particularly cover intra‑BRICS trade, investment, digital economy, MSMEs, standards cooperation and value chain integration.

India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit under its 2026 chairship. The chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with development, sustainability and innovation forming key areas of focus.

BRICS has emerged as an important platform for coordination among major emerging economies and for advancing the interests of the Global South in multilateral institutions. Its agenda covers development, finance, technology, trade and people‑to‑people exchanges.

The grouping currently comprises 11 countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the UAE. India’s chairship comes amid global economic fragmentation, technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, climate change and resource pressures. 

For India, the 2026 chairship is focused on translating the expanded representation of BRICS into meaningful cooperation and tangible outcomes, while building consensus among its diverse members and strengthening the effectiveness of existing mechanisms.

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Modi And Putin Deepen Strategic Ties With Defence, Energy And Cultural Push

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Friday.

The meeting reviewed progress in bilateral ties across defence, energy, space and people-to-people domains. This was their second meeting in a fortnight, following their earlier engagement in Bishkek during the SCO Summit on 31 August.

The Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the leaders held wide-ranging discussions on the India-Russia Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership. They reviewed cooperation in trade, energy, defence, space and people-to-people ties, which remain central to the enduring partnership between the two nations.

Both leaders also exchanged perspectives on key regional and global issues. They discussed conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region, which have disrupted maritime trade and posed risks to the safety and security of Indian seafarers.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the way forward in resolving conflicts, affirming India’s readiness to assist in peace efforts.

The leaders welcomed Russia’s International Industrial Exhibition “INNOPROM India”, held for the first time in India from 9–11 September. They underscored its importance in expanding trade and industrial ties. Modi and Putin visited the exhibition and interacted with participants, highlighting its role in strengthening economic cooperation.

Both sides agreed to remain engaged in efforts to further strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership, which continues to show resilience despite geopolitical uncertainties.

President Putin extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to visit Russia for the 24th India-Russia Annual Summit. Modi accepted the invitation, with dates to be finalised through diplomatic channels.

During their bilateral talks, Prime Minister Modi gifted President Putin a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, the classical Tamil scripture composed by Thiruvalluvar. PM Modi explained that the Thirukkural, written two thousand years ago, encompasses the entire gamut of human life. He expressed confidence that the translation would enhance people-to-people contact and play a significant role in strengthening relations.

In a subsequent post on X, Modi wrote that he had presented Putin with the Russian translation of the Thirukkural, which carries the eternal wisdom of Thiruvalluvar across languages and borders. The Thirukkural consists of 1,330 couplets, each two lines long, and is built on universal values: aram (virtue), porul (wealth and statecraft) and inbam (love). Revered by Tamils as a sacred scripture, it is often referred to as “the Tamil Veda”.

The meeting between Modi and Putin thus reinforced the strategic depth of India-Russia relations, combining defence and energy cooperation with cultural and people-to-people exchanges. It also highlighted India’s consistent emphasis on diplomacy and dialogue in addressing global conflicts, while showcasing the enduring resilience of the bilateral partnership.

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Modi And Putin Share Car Ride To INNOPROM As Russia Eyes Deeper BRICS Role

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin shared a car ride to the INNOPROM exhibition at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi after concluding their bilateral meeting.

The Russian leader is scheduled to address the BRICS Business Forum later in the day, marking a significant moment in India’s BRICS Chairship.

During their talks, PM Modi presented Putin with a Russian translation of the Thirukkural, the classical Tamil scripture composed by the weaver-saint Thiruvalluvar. Modi highlighted that the Thirukkural, written two thousand years ago, encompasses the entire spectrum of human life and expressed confidence that its translation into Russian would strengthen people-to-people ties.

Putin arrived in New Delhi earlier on Friday ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, which India is hosting on 12–13 September. He was received by Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh.

Sources indicated that an ambitious bilateral trade target was discussed during the meeting, with India and Russia aiming to raise trade volumes to ₹8,33,000 crores by 2030. The success of INNOPROM in India was also a key agenda item, with both leaders recognising its role in expanding industrial cooperation, enhancing collaboration in railways and tunnelling, strengthening the steel value chain, and creating new B2B opportunities while broadening access to the Russian market.

INNOPROM, the International Industrial Exhibition, is a global platform that connects manufacturers and buyers worldwide.

It provides opportunities to showcase advanced technologies, access international markets, and foster productive networking. Its presence in India underscores the growing industrial partnership between New Delhi and Moscow.

India’s hosting of the 18th BRICS Summit is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”.

The agenda focuses on development, sustainability and innovation, with BRICS continuing to serve as a vital platform for coordination among major emerging economies and advancing the interests of the Global South in multilateral institutions. The grouping’s scope covers development, finance, technology, trade and people-to-people exchanges.

The expanded BRICS now comprises 11 countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the UAE. Collectively, they represent nearly half of the world’s population, 40 per cent of global GDP and 26 per cent of global trade.

India’s 2026 Chairship comes at a time of global economic fragmentation, technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, climate change and resource pressures.

For New Delhi, the priority is to translate the expanded representation of BRICS into meaningful cooperation and tangible outcomes, while building consensus among diverse members and strengthening existing mechanisms.

The shared car ride to INNOPROM, and Putin’s forthcoming address to the BRICS Business Forum, highlight the deepening India-Russia partnership and the broader significance of BRICS as a platform for global economic and strategic dialogue.

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Putin’s Packed India Visit To Boost BRICS And Bilateral Ties

Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to visit India from 11 to 13 September to participate in the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

His agenda includes a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and an address at the BRICS Business Forum, marking significant diplomatic and economic engagements during the summit.

The Kremlin confirmed that Putin’s visit is a working trip coinciding with the 20th anniversary of BRICS. The main summit will take place on 12 and 13 September under India’s chairship. On 11 September, Putin will deliver a speech at the plenary session of the BRICS Business Forum, a platform that traditionally precedes the leaders’ summit and facilitates dialogue among business representatives from BRICS nations.

On the same day, Putin will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi. Both leaders are also expected to jointly visit the INNOPROM exhibition, organised by the industry and trade ministries of Russia and India. The Kremlin statement highlighted that these engagements will strengthen trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Russia’s state-run TASS news agency reported that Putin will arrive in India on the evening of 10 September. Presidential aide Yuri Ushakov stated that Putin will present initiatives on trade, economic, investment and transport cooperation during the BRICS Business Forum. Ushakov also confirmed that several bilateral meetings are planned on the sidelines of the summit, with the first major engagement being the meeting with Prime Minister Modi on 11 September.

Ushakov emphasised the importance of the personal relationship between Modi and Putin, noting that Moscow highly values the rapport between the two leaders. He also indicated that Modi could visit Russia in 2027 if his schedule does not permit a visit before the end of this year, leaving the door open for future high-level engagements.

Putin’s schedule includes meetings with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, BRICS New Development Bank head Dilma Rousseff, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. 

Discussions with Rousseff will focus on Russia’s interaction with the bank, financing projects in Russia’s interests, and implementing broader BRICS financial and economic initiatives, including a new investment platform proposed by Russia in 2024.

Talks with Ramaphosa are expected to cover bilateral cooperation and international issues, while discussions with Abiy Ahmed will address bilateral relations and regional topics, including the Middle East and Iran. Moscow is also exploring a possible meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Ushakov confirmed that the situation in the Middle East, particularly Iran, will be a key subject in Putin’s bilateral discussions.

A full-scale bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping is not currently planned, though both leaders will have opportunities to interact during the summit. Putin does not intend to hold a press conference for the Kremlin pool after the summit.

The main program of the BRICS Summit will begin on 12 September, with leaders expected to discuss India’s presidency initiatives and prospects for strengthening the BRICS strategic partnership. Discussions will span politics and security, economics and finance, and cultural and humanitarian ties. Leaders will also exchange views on pressing international and regional issues.

An expanded BRICS meeting will take place on 13 September, bringing together heads of delegation from member states, partner nations, and invited international organisations.

The summit’s final document will reflect the main agreements reached. India’s chairship has prioritised cooperation in trade, digital technology, finance, energy security and global governance reform.

Key topics include resilient supply chains, cross-border payment integration, greater use of national currencies, MSME development, digital trade and artificial intelligence.

Energy security, climate resilience, development finance, expansion of the New Development Bank and reforms of multilateral institutions are also expected to feature prominently.

The expanded BRICS grouping now includes 11 members: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. Indonesia joined as a full member in 2025. The wider BRICS framework also encompasses 10 partner nations: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

Putin’s participation, combining bilateral engagements with Modi, an address to the BRICS business community and meetings with leaders from member and partner countries, underscores the strategic importance of Russia’s role in India’s BRICS summit diplomacy.

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President Putin’s Arrival Strengthens India-Russia Partnership Ahead of BRICS Summit

President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Friday ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, with the Ministry of External Affairs hailing the “multifaceted and longstanding” bilateral ties between India and Russia.

His arrival marks a significant moment as India prepares to host the high-level gathering this weekend.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X that Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh received and welcomed the Russian leader at Delhi airport.

He emphasised that India and Russia share “multifaceted and longstanding ties anchored in Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,” underlining the depth of the relationship.

Putin’s arrival sets the stage for crucial bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day. The discussions are expected to focus on strategic trade resilience, cross-border payment mechanisms, energy security, and conflict-resolution pathways in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and West Asia.

According to the Kremlin, Putin is paying a working visit to India as BRICS marks its 20th anniversary. His engagements include addressing the plenary session of the BRICS Business Forum on September 11, a platform that traditionally precedes the leaders’ summit and brings together business representatives from across BRICS nations.

On the same day, Putin is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi. Both leaders will also jointly visit the INNOPROM exhibition, organised by the industry and trade ministries of Russia and India, showcasing industrial and technological cooperation between the two countries.

The Russian President’s visit is expected to add further momentum to the India-Russia strategic partnership. Trade and economic cooperation are likely to feature prominently in the discussions, reflecting the longstanding emphasis on strengthening bilateral economic ties.

India’s chairship of BRICS has focused on enhancing cooperation across trade, digital technology, finance, energy security, and global governance reform. The summit will deliberate on resilient global supply chains, cross-border payment integration, greater use of national currencies, MSME development, digital trade, and artificial intelligence.

Energy security, climate resilience, development finance, expansion of the New Development Bank, and reforms of multilateral financial and political institutions are also expected to be key themes. These discussions highlight India’s priorities of resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability under its leadership of BRICS.

Putin’s participation in the BRICS Business Forum and his bilateral engagements with Modi underscore the strategic weight of the summit. The visit reflects both nations’ commitment to advancing their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership while contributing to the broader BRICS agenda of reforming global governance and strengthening economic resilience.

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President Putin Arrives In India To Strengthen India-Russia Partnership Ahead of BRICS Summit

President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Friday ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, with the Ministry of External Affairs hailing the “multifaceted and longstanding” bilateral ties between India and Russia.

His arrival marks a significant moment as India prepares to host the high-level gathering this weekend.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X that Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh received and welcomed the Russian leader at Delhi airport.

He emphasised that India and Russia share “multifaceted and longstanding ties anchored in Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,” underlining the depth of the relationship.

Putin’s arrival sets the stage for crucial bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day. The discussions are expected to focus on strategic trade resilience, cross-border payment mechanisms, energy security, and conflict-resolution pathways in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and West Asia.

According to the Kremlin, Putin is paying a working visit to India as BRICS marks its 20th anniversary. His engagements include addressing the plenary session of the BRICS Business Forum on September 11, a platform that traditionally precedes the leaders’ summit and brings together business representatives from across BRICS nations.

On the same day, Putin is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi. Both leaders will also jointly visit the INNOPROM exhibition, organised by the industry and trade ministries of Russia and India, showcasing industrial and technological cooperation between the two countries.

The Russian President’s visit is expected to add further momentum to the India-Russia strategic partnership. Trade and economic cooperation are likely to feature prominently in the discussions, reflecting the longstanding emphasis on strengthening bilateral economic ties.

India’s chairship of BRICS has focused on enhancing cooperation across trade, digital technology, finance, energy security, and global governance reform. The summit will deliberate on resilient global supply chains, cross-border payment integration, greater use of national currencies, MSME development, digital trade, and artificial intelligence.

Energy security, climate resilience, development finance, expansion of the New Development Bank, and reforms of multilateral financial and political institutions are also expected to be key themes. These discussions highlight India’s priorities of resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability under its leadership of BRICS.

Putin’s participation in the BRICS Business Forum and his bilateral engagements with Modi underscore the strategic weight of the summit.

The visit reflects both nations’ commitment to advancing their Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership while contributing to the broader BRICS agenda of reforming global governance and strengthening economic resilience.

ANI

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India’s Digital Inclusion Showcased By MP Raghav Chadha At Global Inter-Parliamentary Union Forum

India has once again placed its digital achievements on the global stage, with Bharatiya Janata Party MP Raghav Chadha highlighting the country’s success in building inclusive digital infrastructure during his address at the 12th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Conference in Uzbekistan.

Speaking on the theme of ‘Digital Access & Rights in a Digital Era’, Chadha underscored how India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has become a symbol of scale and inclusion working hand in hand.

He stated that India has shown the world that technology can expand access while safeguarding citizens’ rights. Stressing the importance of grassroots impact, Chadha remarked that the true measure of digital progress lies in whether individuals in the poorest districts, using the cheapest phones, enjoy the same access, protection, and opportunities as everyone else.

In a post on X, Chadha elaborated on his intervention, noting that with over a billion people connected and UPI enabling instant payments as part of daily life, India has demonstrated how digital transformation can be both expansive and inclusive.

He emphasised that technology must connect without excluding, innovate without exploiting, and protect without controlling. He added that the real test of this era is not the intelligence of machines but the equality of access for the most marginalised.

Chadha was nominated to represent the Parliament of India at the 12th IPU Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from 4th to 6th September. Expressing gratitude for the nomination, he thanked the Vice President of India for selecting him to join the delegation.

He described the opportunity as a privilege, especially in the context of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent successful visit to Uzbekistan, which strengthened bilateral ties. Chadha noted that the parliamentary delegation was playing its part in carrying forward the momentum of India-Uzbekistan relations.

The IPU, founded in 1889 and headquartered in Geneva, is the world’s oldest and largest body of national parliaments, comprising 180 Member Parliaments and 15 Associate Members. Chadha highlighted the significance of this year’s summit, themed ‘Reclaiming human rights, justice and dignity for all in turbulent times’. Over three days, young legislators debated issues ranging from youth rights in conflict, digital rights and online safety, to climate resilience, justice, and economic opportunity for the youth.

He further emphasised India’s democratic strength and demographic advantage, pointing out that India is the world’s largest democracy and home to one of the youngest populations. He said that on every issue discussed at the summit, India’s Parliament has both contributions to make and lessons to learn.

The IPU has also taken steps to encourage greater participation of young parliamentarians. In 2018, it became the first international organisation to introduce incentives for delegations that include young MPs, offering extra votes and speaking time.

This initiative has helped ensure that the voices of younger legislators are heard more prominently in global parliamentary debates.

Chadha’s intervention at the conference reinforced India’s position as a leader in digital inclusion and democratic participation, while also showcasing the country’s commitment to shaping global discussions on rights, justice, and opportunities in the digital age.

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India And Indonesia Aim To Complete Bank Indonesia's Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard‑UPI Integration By End of 2026

India and Indonesia have confirmed that their national payment systems, UPI and QRIS, are on track for full integration by the end of 2026. This initiative, announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Jakarta, is already at an advanced technical stage and expected to transform cross‑border transactions, tourism, and trade between the two nations.

Indian Ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty stated that discussions and technology integration are progressing steadily. He emphasised that the process is already at a very advanced stage, with payment system operators from both countries working closely to finalise the technical arrangements.

He explained that the leaders of both nations have expressed their intention to see the integration completed as soon as possible. This political backing has accelerated negotiations, with instructions conveyed to the technical teams to conclude the process quickly.

The announcement was made against the backdrop of Prime Minister Modi’s ongoing state visit to Indonesia. At the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, Modi and President Prabowo Subianto jointly declared plans to integrate the two countries’ payment systems. Modi highlighted that the integration would enhance people‑to‑people interactions and boost bilateral economic transactions.

Once implemented, Indonesia’s Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) will be usable for transactions in India. Similarly, QR codes from India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) ecosystem will be accepted in Indonesia. This will allow travellers, merchants, and businesses to use familiar domestic payment applications abroad, reducing reliance on cash and simplifying transactions.

The integration is part of a broader agenda of digital economic cooperation. Indonesia has positioned QRIS as a central component of its digital payments strategy, expanding its role in both domestic and international contexts. India, meanwhile, has been actively promoting UPI as a global digital payment platform, with successful linkages already established in countries such as Singapore, the UAE, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, Mauritius, and Qatar.

Cross‑border payment integration has become a priority across Asia, aimed at supporting tourism recovery, small business participation, and regional trade. By enabling seamless QR code payments, the initiative will improve efficiency and strengthen financial sector resilience in both countries.

The leaders also discussed wider cooperation beyond payments, including trade, investment, defence, energy, healthcare, and digital public infrastructure. Notably, Indonesia launched the Indonesia Open Network (ION), modelled on India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), reflecting deeper collaboration in digital innovation.

President Prabowo emphasised that the payment system integration would strengthen the resilience of both financial sectors and facilitate cross‑border transactions. He noted that the system is expected to improve transaction efficiency while reinforcing economic ties.

The initiative is expected to simplify payments for travellers and businesses, enhance bilateral commerce, and contribute to regional connectivity. It represents a significant step in India’s broader push to make UPI a globally accepted payment platform, while supporting Indonesia’s digital transformation agenda.

By the end of 2026, the QRIS‑UPI linkage is anticipated to be fully operational, marking a milestone in the digital partnership between India and Indonesia. It will stand as a symbol of the two nations’ commitment to modernising financial systems and deepening economic cooperation.

Agencies

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PM Modi’s Three‑Nation Tour To Cement BrahMos Deal, AI Cooperation And Indo‑Pacific Partnerships

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a six‑day tour covering Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, with the objective of consolidating India’s strategic footprint across the Indo‑Pacific.

The visit is designed to strengthen defence, trade, technology, digital connectivity and economic cooperation, while also reinforcing India’s Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR vision that emphasises maritime security and regional integration.

In Jakarta, discussions are expected to centre on finalising the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile deal with Indonesia, a move that would make Southeast Asia’s largest nation the third regional client after the Philippines and Vietnam.

The BrahMos system, jointly developed by India and Russia, is regarded as one of the fastest cruise missiles in the world, capable of enhancing coastal defence and deterrence capabilities. Indonesia’s interest in the missile reflects its growing concern over maritime security challenges in the South China Sea and its desire to modernise its defence forces with advanced technology.

Alongside defence, Modi’s visit to Indonesia will also highlight cooperation in emerging technologies. Talks are planned on integrating India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Indonesia’s QRIS digital payment system, a step that would facilitate seamless cross‑border transactions and strengthen financial connectivity.

This initiative is part of India’s broader push to export its digital public infrastructure model, which has already gained traction in several countries. Additionally, collaboration in artificial intelligence is on the agenda, with both nations exploring opportunities in AI research, applications in governance, and industrial innovation.

The Jakarta leg of the tour underscores the dual focus of India’s diplomacy: hard security through defence exports and soft power through digital and technological partnerships. By combining missile sales with digital payment integration and AI cooperation, India is positioning itself as both a security provider and a technology partner in Southeast Asia.

In Australia, Modi will meet Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to expand defence and trade ties. Australia’s National Defence Strategy 2026 has already identified India as a top‑tier security partner, and the visit is expected to deepen cooperation in the Indo‑Pacific, particularly in maritime security and defence industry collaboration.

The India‑Australia CEOs Forum will provide a platform for business leaders to discuss investment opportunities and supply chain resilience, further strengthening economic ties.

In New Zealand, Modi’s state visit will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades. He will hold talks with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations, which have seen notable progress in trade, commerce and defence over the past two years.

The visit is also expected to highlight people‑to‑people connections, with the Indian diaspora playing a significant role in strengthening cultural and economic bonds.

This three‑nation tour reflects India’s growing ambition to act as a strategic, technological and economic partner across the Indo‑Pacific. By advancing defence deals, promoting digital connectivity, and expanding trade and investment, New Delhi is signalling its readiness to shape the regional architecture in both security and technology domains.

The emphasis on BrahMos missiles, AI collaboration and digital payments in Indonesia, combined with defence and trade expansion in Australia and New Zealand, demonstrates a comprehensive approach to regional engagement.

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UPI Goes Live In Greece As Piyush Goyal Leads Economic Engagements

India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has officially gone live in Greece, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal witnessing the launch at Eurobank headquarters in Athens.

This marks a major milestone in the global expansion of India’s digital payments ecosystem, strengthening bilateral economic ties and opening new avenues for collaboration between India and Greece.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal attended the live demonstration of the Eurobank–NIPL partnership that enabled UPI services in Greece. The event was held at Eurobank headquarters in Athens and was attended by Eurobank CEO Fokion Karavias and Fairfax Digital Services CEO Sanjay Tugnait. The launch was described as a significant achievement in India’s digital transformation journey.

Minister Goyal emphasised that with UPI now operational in Greece, eligible customers can transfer money instantly, securely, and seamlessly. He noted that transaction costs are reduced to a fraction of those associated with conventional money transfer methods, making the system highly efficient and accessible.

He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for driving India’s digital transformation, highlighting that the growing global acceptance of UPI reflects trust in Modi’s vision of building technology-led solutions that create value beyond borders.

The launch was part of Goyal’s broader visit to Greece, where he is leading a delegation of senior business leaders and officials. The program began with a meeting with Eurobank’s leadership team at Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens. Discussions focused on enhancing financial collaboration and exploring opportunities for investment and growth.

The delegation also participated in the India–Greece Business Council Meeting and Business Forum at the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Three sectoral roundtables were convened, covering Infrastructure (energy, ports, logistics, shipbuilding, warehousing, trade, gem and jewellery), Digital Innovation and Defence, and Food Processing and Agriculture.

These sessions brought together business leaders from both countries, enabling focused discussions, identification of synergies, and exploration of avenues for collaboration across diverse sectors.

The proceedings concluded with an address by Minister Goyal, who highlighted the shared vision of advancing trade, investment, and innovation-led growth. He underscored the importance of building partnerships that leverage technology and innovation to drive prosperity.

The day’s engagements culminated in the India–Greece Business Summit, attended by ministers from both nations along with senior business leaders. The summit reaffirmed the commitment to advancing trade, investment, and innovation-led growth, while strengthening institutional and personal ties.

A networking reception at ACCI concluded the day, providing an opportunity for informal exchanges and reinforcing the momentum in bilateral relations.

This launch not only strengthens India–Greece economic cooperation but also expands UPI’s global footprint, following similar rollouts in countries such as France, UAE, and Singapore. It reflects India’s ambition to make UPI a globally recognised digital payments standard, supporting seamless financial transactions and deepening international partnerships.

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PM Modi Concludes Landmark Seychelles Visit With Major Economic And Strategic Breakthroughs

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for New Delhi on Monday after concluding a high-profile State Visit to Seychelles. His three-day diplomatic engagement from 27 to 29 June was marked by significant breakthroughs in economic, strategic, and cultural cooperation between the two nations.

Before leaving Victoria, PM Modi warmly greeted Seychelles President Patrick Herminie, underlining the cordiality that defined the visit. The trip was undertaken at the invitation of President Herminie and was designed to expand India’s strategic footprint across the Indian Ocean while strengthening bilateral ties.

The visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Seychelles. A historic highlight came on Sunday when PM Modi attended the National Day celebrations commemorating the Golden Jubilee of Seychelles’ independence. He was accorded the rare honour of Guest of Honour, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to receive this distinction.

In his remarks, PM Modi emphasised that the celebrations were a profound tribute to the Seychellois people’s journey over the past five decades. He expressed pride in India’s role as a trusted friend and development partner, stressing that shared values and closer people-to-people ties continue to strengthen the partnership.

On social media platform X, PM Modi wrote that he was honoured to participate in the National Day celebrations, describing the occasion as a fitting tribute to the Seychellois people. He reaffirmed India’s long-term commitment to Seychelles, expressing confidence that the friendship between the two nations would grow even further.

During the visit, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to address the National Assembly of Seychelles. His speech highlighted the enduring bonds between the two democracies and the shared vision for regional stability and prosperity.

India and Seychelles signed nine agreements, including a landmark extradition treaty to combat transnational crime. The agreements also covered cooperation in outer space exploration for peaceful purposes, reflecting the broadening scope of bilateral engagement.

A major economic outcome of the visit was the announcement of a special development package worth USD 175 million. Additionally, India extended a fresh line of credit amounting to Rs 1,250 crore to support priority development projects in Seychelles. This umbrella agreement will be extended in rupees, ensuring financial stability and accessibility for the island nation.

The introduction of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in Seychelles was another significant achievement. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the National Payments Corporation of India and the Central Bank of Seychelles to facilitate this initiative, marking a step towards digital financial integration.

Seychelles also formally sought India’s advanced technological and defence assistance. Requests included the establishment of artificial intelligence and cyber security centres, as well as the procurement of an advanced light helicopter. PM Modi responded positively, assuring that New Delhi would process these proposals with high priority.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefed the media on the outcomes of the visit, describing Seychelles as a key partner in India’s Vision MAHASAGAR and its broader commitment to the Global South. He noted that the Prime Minister welcomed the new proposals and signalled India’s readiness to take them forward.

The visit also carried symbolic significance as PM Modi was conferred the prestigious Guardian of the Blue Horizon award. This honour recognised his global leadership in addressing climate change and promoting the protection of the marine environment, underscoring India’s role in safeguarding shared ecological resources.

The State Visit thus delivered a comprehensive expansion of bilateral relations, combining economic support, strategic cooperation, technological collaboration, and cultural solidarity. It marked a new chapter in India-Seychelles relations, reinforcing the island nation’s role as a valued maritime partner in the Indian Ocean.

ANI

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