Modi Meets with Ethiopian PM at BRICS Summit

As set out in a formal announcement,

Background

Prior to this meeting, in March the ministry said Prime Minister Modi met with the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Subsequently, on September 13, 2026, Prime Minister Modi met with the President of South Africa on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. These engagements, alongside the meeting with the President of the Russian Federation on September 11, 2026, demonstrate India’s active participation in the BRICS framework and its prioritization of strategic dialogues with key global partners. The meeting built on Prime Minister Modi’s historic visit to Addis Ababa in December 2025.

Analysis

The discussions centered on economic cooperation, defence and security partnership, and capacity building. The statement does not address the specific details of these discussions. The engagement highlights Ethiopia’s participation in the 18th BRICS Summit, and India’s intention to reinforce the collective voice of the Global South. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, indicating a focus on bilateral relations rather than broader summit proceedings. The statement does not address Ethiopia’s role within the BRICS grouping.

Implications

The meeting’s implications extend to regional stability and trade relationships. Should the visit yield further commitments in defence and security, it could bolster India’s influence within the African continent. The reinforced Strategic Partnership with Ethiopia could also impact trade flows between the two nations, although the statement does not address this. The meeting’s timing, coinciding with India’s BRICS chairship, underscores Delhi’s commitment to promoting a multipolar world.

Outlook

If the discussions concerning defence and security partnership are successful, it could lead to increased collaboration on counter-terrorism efforts. Should the visit yield further commitments in economic cooperation, it would represent a tangible step towards enhancing trade ties between India and Ethiopia. The meeting does not necessarily signal a shift in India’s broader foreign policy, but rather a continued prioritization of strategic partnerships.

Sources & Further Reading

• Official press release
• Foreign ministry source
• Prime Minister meets with the Prime Minister of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi (12 Septemb)
• Prime Minister meets with the President of South Africa on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi (13 Septemb)
• Prime Minister meets with the President of the Russian Federation on the sidelines of BRICS Summit (11 Septemb)