New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to Delhi on October 24, after his two-day visit to Russia, where he participated in the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan. The summit, which began on October 22, saw Modi meeting several world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines. Modi described the summit as "very productive."
BRICS, which stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, was established to support emerging market nations that have demonstrated strong economic growth and are expected to play a significant role in the global economy by 2050. As a founding member, India has played a crucial role in the group's development. In light of ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia and Iran, along with China's economic challenges, India stands as a key voice within BRICS. The 2024 summit underscored the importance of multilateralism, with India acting as a bridge between the East and West. Its unique geopolitical standing and rich cultural heritage enable it to foster collaboration and dialogue among member nations.
At the summit, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the BRICS Vaccine R&D Centre, established in 2022, as essential to improving health security across member nations. He also expressed India's willingness to share its successful digital health experiences. Climate change was a major focus, with Modi welcoming the formation of an Open Carbon Market Partnership under Russia's leadership, while also showcasing India's green initiatives.
Modi advocated for increased financial integration among BRICS nations, promoting local currency trading and cross-border payments to strengthen economic ties. President Putin proposed a new investment platform aimed at supporting low-emission economic models for the Global South. Modi also emphasised the importance of a 'people-centric' approach to address issues such as cybersecurity, deep fakes, and disinformation. He expressed India's readiness to welcome new partner countries while stressing that decisions should consider the founding members' views.
Modi further called for united action against terrorism and youth radicalisation. Russia commented on the ongoing formation of a "multipolar world order," aligning BRICS’s vision with global aspirations.
Prime Minister Modi's arrival at the Kazan Expo Centre for the 2024 BRICS Summit marked a significant moment in global diplomacy, particularly as he prepared for his first bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in five years, amidst ongoing tensions. The summit also included Turkey's bid to join BRICS, which would make it the first NATO member in the group, reflecting its pursuit of strategic autonomy.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres' attendance highlighted the summit's importance in addressing global conflicts, particularly in the Middle East and Ukraine. Former diplomat TS Tirumurti underscored India's pivotal role, advocating that BRICS should promote cooperation rather than become an anti-West coalition. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri noted the focus on developing a partner country model to enhance collaboration with non-member states.
Modi reaffirmed India's commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict during discussions with President Putin, extending an invitation for future talks. He also engaged with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on West Asia tensions, emphasising India's diplomatic efforts for regional stability. The cultural warmth shown by Indian students in Kazan reflects the strong people-to-people ties between the nations. This summit marks the first after BRICS expanded to include new members like Egypt and Iran, reshaping its dynamics.
Overall, this summit reflects the shifting global landscape, where emerging economies are asserting their influence on key international issues through enhanced cooperation and dialogue. The platform serves as a medium for India to showcase its stability and growing influence in an evolving geopolitical environment.
BI Bureau
