NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed for a two-day visit to Kazan at the invitation of Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, to attend the 16th BRICS Summit.

In his departure statement, PM Modi said, 'India values the close cooperation within BRICS which has emerged as an important platform for dialogue and discussion on issues concerning the global developmental agenda, reformed multilateralism, climate change, economic cooperation, building resilient supply chains, promoting cultural and people to people connect, among others. The expansion of BRICS with the addition of new members last year has added to its inclusivity and agenda for the global good.'

Building upon the Annual Summit held in July 2024 in Moscow, his visit to Kazan will further reinforce the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.