Prime Minister Narendra Modi has traveled to Kazan, Russia, for the Brics summit, discussing strategic partnerships and the potential for a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. His visit emphasizes India’s commitment to cooperation within Brics and strengthening relations with Russia amidst ongoing tensions with China, particularly following an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the LAC.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a two-day visit to Kazan, Russia, for the Brics summit, where he is poised to engage in discussions that will strengthen the longstanding partnership with Russia and possibly facilitate a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Modi’s visit follows a crucial agreement reached between India and China concerning patrolling protocols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), bringing a renewed focus on strained Sino-Indian relations. In a statement prior to his departure, Modi emphasized the importance of India’s cooperation with Brics, particularly in areas such as reformed multilateralism and resilient supply chains. He expressed anticipation for dialogues with other Brics leaders and is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin upon arrival to review previous agreements and explore avenues for future collaboration. Modi and Putin are also expected to discuss the ongoing conflict in Ukraine amidst recent contacts between Indian and Ukrainian officials. Although no official confirmation of additional bilateral meetings has been provided, the potential meeting with President Xi is significant given the history of strained relations following clashes in Galwan Valley in 2020, which resulted in significant casualties. Modi’s last formal interaction with Xi occurred in November 2022 during the G20 Summit in Bali. In conclusion, Modi’s visit to the Brics summit underscores India’s commitment to international dialogue and strategic cooperation, particularly amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics with China and ongoing discussions surrounding critical global issues.
The Brics summit, which includes member nations Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, serves as a platform for discussing essential topics related to global governance and economic development. With the recent expansion of Brics to include additional members such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, the group’s role in promoting inclusive dialogue and cooperation on global challenges has been reinforced. Prime Minister Modi’s visit resonates with India’s broader strategy of enhancing international partnerships while navigating complex regional issues, notably the ongoing tensions with China.
Prime Minister Modi’s engagement at the Brics summit in Kazan is a pivotal opportunity for India to reinforce its strategic ties with Russia and potentially mend relations with China. The emphasis on cooperative multilateralism and resilient supply chains highlights India’s diplomatic priorities, while the potential meetings with Xi Jinping could signify a thaw in relations after a prolonged standoff.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
