Source The Hindu
NEW DELHI — In a significant boost to India’s diplomatic calendar, Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to travel to New Delhi this September for the 18th BRICS Summit. The confirmation comes from Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Rudenko Andrey Yurevich, who indicated that Moscow currently sees “no problems” that would hinder the President’s participation.
Speaking at an interaction in Colombo on Wednesday, Minister Rudenko noted that President Putin has received an official invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He emphasized that Russia views the invitation with “seriousness,” despite the “volatile situation” in West Asia and ongoing global geopolitical shifts.
Strengthening the ‘Time-Tested’ Partnership
The announcement follows a series of high-level diplomatic engagements between the two nations, including recent Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi. Russia’s endorsement of India’s 2026 BRICS Chairship highlights a shared vision for a multipolar world order.
“My President has an invitation from Prime Minister Modi to come to New Delhi, and for the time being, we don’t see any problems which would prevent him from doing so,” Minister Rudenko stated, commending India for its efforts to streamline differences within the expanded bloc.
Key Highlights of the Upcoming Summit
Expansion & Consensus: As the chair for 2026, India is leading a bloc that now includes 11 full members and 10 partner countries, focusing on “Building Resilience and Innovation.”
Energy Security: Amidst global price fluctuations, Russia reaffirmed its commitment to honor all existing oil contracts with India, even as Moscow implements a ban on gasoline exports effective April 1.
Diplomatic Precursors: The September summit will be preceded by a meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers in New Delhi this May, where Sergey Lavrov is expected to finalize the summit’s agenda with his Indian counterpart, S. Jaishankar.
What is BRICS?
BRICS is an intergovernmental organization that serves as a major platform for emerging economies to coordinate on global political and economic governance.
Founding Members Recent Expansions (Selected)
Brazil, Russia, India, China Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran
South Africa (Joined 2011) Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates
The 2026 summit marks the fourth time India has held the chairship, reinforcing its role as a bridge between the “Global South” and traditional global powers. While the “volatile” international landscape remains a factor, the projected attendance of President Putin signals a robust continuation of the “special and privileged” strategic partnership between Moscow and New Delhi.
