Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he was looking forward to meeting with leaders of BRICS countries at the Summit that begins in Goa on October 15.

"I look forward to deliberations with leaders of China and South Africa, which will strengthen our bilateral ties with these key partners," Modi tweeted, a day ahead of the BRICS Summit.

He added: "As BRICS chair this year, India embraces a stronger emphasis on enhancing economic and people-to-people ties. This will benefit us greatly."

Modi, who will also hold bilateral meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and other leaders on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Goa, said he will discuss ways with them to address "pressing international and regional challenges that stand in the way of our goals".

"I am optimistic that the BRICS Summit will strengthen intra-BRICS cooperation and advance our common agenda for development, peace, stability and reform," he said in a Facebook post.

Referring to India-Russia Annual Summit, Modi said Putin's visit will give an opportunity to consolidate and reaffirm a unique time-tested friendship and partnership with Russia.

"India is honoured to welcome President Putin for the India-Russia Annual Summit, which will also take place in Goa," he tweeted.

(Xinhua News Agency October 14, 2016)