Putin Touches Down in India for BRICS Summit, High-Stakes Talks Begin
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Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in New Delhi today for the BRICS Summit, kicking off a packed three-day visit with immediate bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This critical meeting comes ahead of the main BRICS gathering on September 12-13, where global leaders will tackle pressing issues from ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine to efforts for a new world economic order. Beyond the summit agenda, Putin and Modi are expected to deepen discussions on various aspects of their 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership,' including defense deals for advanced systems like the S-400 and Su-57 fighters, expanded energy cooperation, and plans for transport corridors like the Northern Sea Route. The two leaders will also visit the INNOPROM industrial exhibition, showcasing a push for joint industrial projects and technology sharing. India, as the 2026 BRICS Chair, is strongly advocating for reduced reliance on the US dollar, promoting local currency trade and linking Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) among member nations. The expanded 11-member BRICS group, which now includes countries like Iran and Indonesia, aims to strengthen its voice on the global stage, though achieving full consensus among its diverse members remains a challenge. The arrival of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian further highlights the summit's importance, signaling a potential shift in global alliances and a push for a 'multipolar' world where many powerful countries work together. What emerges from these high-level discussions could reshape trade, finance, and diplomatic ties for years to come.