Putin calls for business ties at BRICS forum in New Delhi

Russian President Vladimir Putin told the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi that dependable ties between businesses can help countries manage global economic challenges.

Addressing the gathering on Friday, Putin said the world was undergoing “structural, deep, profound shifts” as new engines of growth emerged. He said BRICS countries had contributed more than 40% of global GDP over the past five years, compared with 29% for the G7.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined BRICS leaders, the chairs of the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance at the forum. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, and Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira were among those present.

The annual forum brings business leaders, ministers and heads of state together to discuss trade, investment, finance, technology and development. Its recommendations cover areas including intra-BRICS trade, the digital economy, MSMEs and supply chains.

The meeting precedes the BRICS summit in New Delhi, which India is hosting under its 2026 chairship.