India (Commonwealth Union)_ Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commenced a pivotal visit to Russia, aiming to enhance India’s engagement within the BRICS framework. This journey precedes the highly anticipated 16th BRICS summit in Kazan and underscores the significance of India’s role in global cooperation. As preparations ramp up in Kazan, the local atmosphere is electric with anticipation for Modi’s arrival. Billboards and banners have been erected throughout the city, reflecting the enthusiasm of the Indian community residing in Russia. This warm reception highlights India’s growing influence on the world stage and reinforces its collaborative efforts within BRICS, which encompasses Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Also read: Nawaz Sharif’s bold call for a united future with India is a milestone in India-Pakistan relations!
In a statement made prior to his departure, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of close cooperation within BRICS, describing it as a vital platform for dialogue on various global developmental issues. “The expansion of BRICS with the addition of new members last year has added to its inclusivity and agenda for the global good,” he noted, stressing the group’s role in addressing pressing global challenges. Hosted by Russia, this summit emerges as a significant platform for non-Western powers, especially in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the conflict in Ukraine and issues in West Asia. Modi’s participation is crucial as the BRICS nations seek to strengthen their collective voice on the global stage.
PM Modi will participate in a series of bilateral meetings during the summit, which will include discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. This summit marks the first gathering of BRICS leaders since the group expanded in Johannesburg last year, a move that Modi views as a testament to the coalition’s growing influence and relevance. In his departure statement, Modi asserted, “India values the close cooperation within BRICS, which has emerged as an important platform for dialogue and discussion on issues concerning the global developmental agenda, reformed multilateralism, climate change, economic cooperation, building resilient supply chains, and promoting cultural connections”.
Also read: Decoding Modi’s electoral setback
The Prime Minister expressed his intention to further strengthen the ‘Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership’ between India and Russia. He highlighted that his visit to Kazan builds upon the fruitful discussions held during his July summit with President Putin in Moscow. “I look forward to meeting other leaders from BRICS as well,” Modi stated, indicating his commitment to fostering collaboration among member nations. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he conveyed his eagerness for extensive discussions on a range of subjects at the summit.
The BRICS grouping originated from the initial meetings of Russia, India, and China in 2006, which later expanded to include South Africa in 2010, transforming BRIC into BRICS. The recent addition of new members, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, during last year’s summit marked a significant milestone, enhancing the coalition’s representation and influence. Modi’s visit to Kazan, on October 22 and 23, is a direct response to an invitation from President Putin, underscoring the strategic significance of India-Russia relations amidst shifting global dynamics. The timing of this visit coincides with heightened international attention on economic recovery, geopolitical stability, and sustainable development, making the discussions at the summit all the more critical.
As India continues to play a vital role in BRICS, its participation reflects the country’s aspirations to shape the global narrative and promote multilateralism. The ongoing summit in Kazan is poised to be a pivotal moment for the BRICS nations as they navigate the complexities of contemporary global challenges. Through this visit, Prime Minister Modi aims to reinforce India’s commitment to collaborative efforts within BRICS and to solidify its standing as a key player in multilateral discussions. The outcomes of the summit are anticipated to resonate not only within the BRICS coalition but also in the broader context of international relations as nations seek to align their strategies in an increasingly interconnected world.
