Putin arrives in India ahead of BRICS summit

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi on Friday ahead of the BRICS summit, which will focus on conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as global economic issues. Putin was greeted at Palam Air Force Station by India's External Affairs Minister Kirti Vardhan Singh. This marks Xi Jinping's first visit to India since 2019, representing a significant step in improving relations between the two countries, although deep mistrust persists due to historical border disputes and strategic rivalry.

In New Delhi, Modi warmly welcomed the leaders, with heavy security measures and traffic restrictions in place to accommodate the summit. The BRICS forum, initially established in 2009 to provide a platform for major emerging economies, now includes Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. However, the upcoming Middle East conflict, particularly the war in Iran, is expected to be the key issue for discussion.

India's position, as a member of BRICS, remains delicate, balancing relationships with Iran, Israel, the United States, and Russia. The summit will test the cohesion of the BRICS group, with the war in Iran posing a significant challenge to their unity. Despite tensions, India's strategic ties with Russia, its most important energy supplier, continue to play a crucial role in navigating the global energy crisis.