India ready to play 'whatever role' for peace between Russia-Ukraine, says PM Modi

Ahead of the much anticipated BRICS Summit 2024 in Kazan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, emphasising his message for peace between Russia-Ukraine.

In his remarks, the PM said that his two visits to Russia in the last three months reflect the close coordination and deep friendship shared by India and Russia. "Our Annual Summit in Moscow in July has strengthened our cooperation in every field...In 15 years, the BRICS has created its special identity and now many countries of the world want to join it. I am looking forward to participating in the BRICS Summit tomorrow."

On the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, PM Modi said that he has been in constant touch with the Russian President on the subject.


"As I have said earlier, we believe that the problems should be resolved in a peaceful manner. We fully support the early establishment of peace and stability. All our efforts give priority to humanity. India is ready to provide all possible cooperation in the times to come," he said.

Modi also expressed his 'heartfelt' gratitude for Putin's friendship, warm welcome and hospitality.

He added: "It is a matter of great pleasure for me to have the opportunity to visit a beautiful city like Kazan for the BRICS Summit. India has deep and historical ties with this city. The opening of India's new consulate in Kazan will further strengthen these ties."

In his remarks, Russian President Putin also thanked PM Modi for accepting his invitation to the BRICS Summit.

"I remember our July meeting when we had a good discussion on a range of issues, and we also spoke over the phone several times. I am very thankful to you for accepting my invitation to visit Kazan. Today, we will participate in the inaugural ceremony of the BRICS Summit and after that, we will have a discussion during dinner," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Moscow in July to attend the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit, where he held talks with President Vladimir Putin. During his visit, Modi received Russia's highest civilian honor, the Order of St. Andrew the Apostle, at the Kremlin.

The BRIC grouping, including Brazil, Russia, India, and China, was formally started in 2006 after a meeting in St. Petersburg on the margins of the G8 Outreach Summit. The first gathering of BRIC Foreign Ministers took place during the UN General Assembly in New York in the same year. In 2009, the first BRIC Summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

In 2010, BRIC expanded to include South Africa, transforming into BRICS. South Africa joined the BRICS meetings starting with the third summit in Sanya in 2011.

In 2024, BRICS expanded further with the addition of five new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.