Modi’s bilateral meetings on BRICS sidelines put defence, security cooperation in focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral meetings with leaders from Asia and Africa on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in New Delhi. Discussions focused on strengthening defense, security, and strategic partnerships, particularly with the Philippines and Kazakhstan.
Why it matters
These meetings highlight India's growing role in the Global South and its strategic efforts to expand defense exports and security cooperation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bilateral engagements with leaders from Asia and Africa on the sidelines of the 18 th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Sunday (September 13, 2026) emphasised defence and security cooperation, alongside trade, technology and strategic partnerships, as India sought to deepen its engagement with key partners across the Global South.
Mr. Modi held separate meetings with Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Ugandan Vice President Jessica Rose Epel Alupo, Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima Mustapha, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and the President of Burundi and chairperson of the African Union , Évariste Ndayishimiye.
The meeting with Mr. Marcos of the Philippines assumes particular significance for India's defence outreach in Southeast Asia. The two leaders agreed to further deepen cooperation in defence and security, along with trade and investment, space, railways, fintech, education, science and technology and innovation.
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