In a significant conclave, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosts 36 world leaders from various nations at the Brics summit, aimed at underscoring Moscow’s non-isolation amidst Western pressures and sanctions. Key figures like the leaders of China and India participate, reflecting Brics’ intention to counter US dollar dominance, while the increasing membership raises concerns about ideological coherence.
Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted a significant summit of the Brics group, welcoming 36 world leaders, including prominent figures from China, India, and Iran. The gathering sought to highlight Moscow’s global relevance, despite the president being a target of Western ostracization and facing accusations from the International Criminal Court over the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children. The summit, taking place over three days, marks the largest assembly convened by President Putin since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Although there were uncertainties regarding UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ attendance amidst his indecision to confront Ukraine and the West, representatives from various countries confirmed their participation. Notable attendees included the Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and leaders from Algeria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Indonesia, and Mexico. The Brics group, which has grown from its original five members—South Africa, Russia, China, Brazil, and India—to include new entrants like Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Iran, aims to position itself as a counterbalance to Western economic influence, particularly the dominance of the US dollar. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described Brics as a potential means to escape “American totalitarianism” and foster multilateral cooperation to mitigate the effects of US-imposed sanctions. However, the increasing membership poses challenges in maintaining a cohesive ideological foundation. While India and Brazil share sentiments against dollar dominance, their stances diverge from those of Russia and China. In this context, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil emphasized that Brics is “not against anyone.” Notably, analysts view the summit as a beneficial moment for Putin, reinforcing his image as a pivotal player in shaping the future international order. According to policy expert Alex Gabuev, the summit’s impact signals that Russia, far from being an isolated entity, is now integral to a vital coalition that could potentially redefine global dynamics. Despite not attending the previous Brics summit in Johannesburg due to the threat of arrest, Putin remains optimistic about global developments swaying favorably in his regard, particularly in light of possible shifts in US political leadership and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Brics+ alliance initially emphasizes economic growth and technological collaboration, primarily focused on resisting U.S. influence and circumventing sanctions by localizing production and promoting alternative currencies, like the yuan.
The ongoing Brics summit is set against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tensions, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the resulting global sanctions. The Brics group, recognizing the shifting international landscape, aims to enhance cooperation among its members while challenging Western hegemony, particularly the dominance of the US dollar. With expansion into new membership candidates, Brics seeks both economic empowerment and a unified platform to influence global governance.
The Brics summit underscores an evolving dynamic in international relations, with Russia striving to reaffirm its status amid Western criticism. As the group expands its membership, the challenge of ideological alignment persists, particularly among members with divergent perspectives on global issues. Ultimately, the summit represents both a strategic push against Western dominance and a crucial opportunity for member nations to establish a more multipolar world order.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
