Inside Modi-Putin meet: PM nudges Russia to end Ukraine war, $100 billion trade target by 2030

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Brics Summit in New Delhi. The leaders discussed the conflict in Ukraine, reaffirming that dialogue and diplomacy are the best approaches to resolve conflicts. They assessed progress in various areas of cooperation, including political, economic, defence, energy, and space ties.

Modi reiterated India's readiness to assist India and Russia in peace efforts, particularly in conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea region, which have impacted maritime trade and affected the safety of Indian seafarers. Five Indian sailors have been killed in recent attacks on merchant vessels in the Black Sea, prompting protests from India to Russia and Ukraine.

During their talks, the leaders also discussed expanding bilateral trade, with a target of $100 billion by 2030, which currently stands at around $60 billion. They explored opportunities in key sectors like railways, the steel value chain, and critical minerals, as well as bolstering access to the Russian market. The two leaders visited India's international industrial exhibition, Innoprom India, held for the first time at Bharat Mandapam. They emphasized the importance of the exhibition in expanding trade and industrial ties.

Modi accepted Putin's invitation to visit Russia for the 24th India-Russia Summit, with the exact dates to be determined through diplomatic channels. The two countries reaffirmed their special and privileged strategic partnership, emphasizing its growth and resilience amidst geopolitical uncertainties.