Putin, Modi to meet Friday ahead of BRICS summit: Kremlin

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are set to meet on Friday, a day before the BRICS summit, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. This meeting occurs ahead of the BRICS leaders' summit in New Delhi from September 12-13. Peskov emphasized the close personal connection between the two leaders and their pragmatic approach to discussing sensitive global issues and bilateral relations.

BRICS is described as a flexible club focusing on policy, security, economics, finance, cultural, and humanitarian cooperation.

During the online interaction with India-based journalists, Peskov highlighted trade and economic cooperation's wide scope, noting that many issues cannot be discussed publicly due to unfriendly countries creating obstacles. He expressed appreciation for Indian companies' interest in expanding their investments in the Russian economy and welcomed this development.

Regarding the BRICS declaration on the West Asia war, Peskov expressed hope for normalizing relations between the UAE and Iran, affirming Russia's stance for security, mutual trust, and denial of any aggressive actions in the region.

Peskov also addressed the Russia-Ukraine war, blaming the West, including Europe, for exacerbating tensions. He affirmed India's willingness to contribute to settling the Ukrainian conflict peaceably and welcomed the American President Trump's efforts. On sanctions imposed on Russia, Peskov emphasized the illegality of such limitations under international law and the unfairness of threatening third parties for engaging in trade with others.

He revealed that Russia supplies increasing amounts of energy to India each month, but declined to disclose specific figures.

Regarding Indians serving in the Russian army, Peskov stated that the issue was brought to the Indian side's attention and that efforts are underway to identify and repatriate those Indian citizens on the battlefield. Defense ties between Russia and India were described as satisfactory, with both sides sharing military equipment and jointly producing advanced technology.

The S-400 air defense system's delivery to India and the Sukhoi-57 fighter aircraft were also discussed, with both sides expressing interest in further cooperation.