Amid rain in Delhi, PM Modi-Putin begin pre-BRICS meet
Source Entity
The Indian Express
Delhi is experiencing heavy rainfall and a red alert from the IMD during the BRICS Summit. Amidst the inclement weather, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin held bilateral talks focused on energy and trade.
Delhi Weather and Diplomatic Activity: A Dual Focus
The national capital is currently navigating a period of significant atmospheric instability, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a red alert for Delhi-NCR. As heavy rains, thunderstorms, and lightning sweep across the city, the meteorological conditions have necessitated a high degree of vigilance. The IMD’s nowcast, which predicted moderate to heavy rainfall over several hours on Friday, highlights the volatility of the monsoon season as the axis shifts.
Meteorological Context and Impacts
The current weather pattern is attributed to the monsoon axis passing directly over the capital. Expert analysis indicates that as this axis moves, a transition to easterly winds is expected to influence the regional climate. The forecast for September 12 and 13 suggests persistent, albeit varying, spells of precipitation. These conditions pose logistical challenges for the city, particularly as it manages the increased security and infrastructure demands of hosting a major international event.
The BRICS Summit Convergence
Coinciding with this weather event is the BRICS Leaders’ Summit, scheduled from September 11 to 13. The juxtaposition of a red weather alert with a high-stakes diplomatic gathering underscores the operational resilience required by the host city. Despite the rain, the summit proceedings have remained a central focus, serving as a platform for critical discussions on global economic and geopolitical cooperation.
Bilateral Diplomacy: Modi and Putin
Amidst the storm, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on Friday afternoon for bilateral discussions. This meeting, occurring on the eve of the two-day summit, highlights the enduring strategic partnership between the two nations. The agenda, which included trade, energy, and defense, reflects the ongoing importance of the India-Russia relationship in the current global economic landscape.
Energy Security and Geopolitics
Energy remains a cornerstone of the India-Russia dialogue. Despite global pressures and fluctuations in import volumes—such as the 26 percent drop in August—Russia continues to be a primary crude oil supplier to India, providing approximately two million barrels per day. This supply chain is particularly sensitive due to regional tensions in the Middle East and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz.
Future Trends and Resilience
Looking ahead, the intersection of climate volatility and international diplomacy will likely remain a challenge for major urban centers like Delhi. The ability to maintain diplomatic momentum while managing extreme weather events serves as a litmus test for infrastructure capacity. As the BRICS summit continues, the ongoing meteorological monitoring by the IMD will be essential for ensuring the safety and successful conclusion of the remaining sessions.
Multiple Citing Sources