Prime Minister Narendra Modi set off on a two-day trip to Kazan, Russia, on Monday to participate in the 16th BRICS Summit, emphasizing the “immense importance” India places on the group. In a post on X prior to his departure, he stated, “Leaving for Kazan, Russia, to attend the BRICS Summit. India values BRICS greatly, and I look forward to extensive discussions on a variety of topics. I also anticipate meeting various leaders there.”
According to the Prime Minister’s office, Modi mentioned, “I am departing today at the invitation of H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, to attend the 16th BRICS Summit.” He noted that India appreciates the close collaboration within BRICS, which has become a vital platform for dialogue on issues related to the global development agenda, reformed multilateralism, climate change, economic cooperation, resilient supply chains, and cultural connections.
The statement also highlighted that BRICS’ recent expansion, with new members added last year, has enhanced its inclusivity and focus on global welfare. “Building on the Annual Summit held in July 2024 in Moscow, my visit to Kazan will further strengthen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia. I look forward to engaging with other BRICS leaders as well,” the PMO statement added.
The 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan is taking place from October 22-24 under Russia’s chairmanship. During his visit, PM Modi is expected to hold bilateral discussions with counterparts from other BRICS member countries and invited leaders.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that the Summit, themed “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,” will provide a significant platform for leaders to address key global challenges. It will also serve as an opportunity to evaluate the progress of initiatives launched by BRICS and identify areas for future collaboration.
This marks Modi’s second visit to Russia this year; he previously attended the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit in Moscow in July, where he met with President Putin and received Russia’s highest civilian honor, the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle.
BRIC began as a formal grouping after the leaders of Russia, India, and China met in St. Petersburg during the G8 Outreach Summit in 2006. The group was formalized during the first BRIC Foreign Ministers’ meeting at the UNGA in New York that same year. The first BRIC Summit took place in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009. The grouping was expanded to BRICS with the inclusion of South Africa in 2010, and South Africa attended its first BRICS Summit in Sanya in 2011. Further expansion occurred in 2024 with the addition of five new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.