Ambassador Denis Alipov highlights India’s development-focused approach as New Delhi prepares for the 18th BRICS Summit
NEW DELHI ; GTNS | SEPTEMBER 10, 2026: Russia has welcomed India’s approach to its BRICS presidency, particularly New Delhi’s emphasis on putting people and public welfare at the centre of the grouping’s priorities.
Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov, in an interaction with Economic Times, described India’s people-focused approach as commendable. His remarks come ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit and amid preparations for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India.
According to Alipov, India’s BRICS leadership has received support from Russia and other member countries while advancing dialogue across the grouping’s three established areas — political and security cooperation, economic and financial issues, and people-to-people and humanitarian ties.
India’s agenda gains support
India has sought to give its BRICS presidency a development-oriented character, with the principle of public welfare forming an important part of its approach.
The Russian envoy indicated that cooperation among BRICS members during India’s presidency has helped maintain momentum across multiple areas of the grouping’s work.
The emphasis on people-centred development comes at a time when BRICS is expanding its role in global economic and diplomatic affairs. The grouping is increasingly being viewed as a platform through which emerging economies can coordinate on issues extending beyond trade and finance.
Global governance among summit priorities
Looking ahead to the BRICS Summit, Alipov said member countries are expected to address several major international concerns.
Among the issues likely to feature prominently are reforms in global governance institutions, efforts to combat terrorism and security in information and communication technologies (ICT).
These issues reflect the wider challenges facing the international community, particularly as emerging technologies, digital connectivity and geopolitical tensions reshape the global environment.
Putin’s India visit adds significance
The upcoming summit also assumes added importance because of President Vladimir Putin’s expected visit to India. It would mark his second visit to the country in less than a year, further underlining the continuing importance of the India-Russia relationship.
The Putin-Modi engagement is expected to attract attention not only for its bilateral significance but also for its broader relevance to BRICS cooperation.
As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit, New Delhi is seeking to combine economic priorities with discussions on global governance, security, development and humanitarian cooperation.
Russia’s positive assessment of India’s presidency adds another dimension to the summit preparations, highlighting Moscow’s support for New Delhi’s effort to place people, development and practical multilateral cooperation at the heart of the BRICS agenda.
Global Times News | GTNS
September 10, 2026