Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Kazan, Russia, for the 16th BRICS Summit, which will take place from October 22-23, 2024. This summit marks a significant occasion as it is the first gathering of the newly expanded BRICS group, which now includes ten member states following the recent admission of countries such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE. The theme of this year’s summit, “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,” highlights the bloc’s commitment to fostering cooperation in the face of global challenges.
Modi’s participation comes at a crucial time for BRICS, which is increasingly viewed as a counterbalance to Western dominance in global governance. During his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Modi expressed appreciation for their “strong friendship” and emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. “India feels the conflict should end peacefully, and we are committed to working towards that goal,” Modi stated, underscoring India’s role as a mediator in international disputes.
The summit is expected to address key issues, including the proposal for a BRICS-led payment system designed to rival SWIFT, which has seen Russian banks cut off from its services since 2022. This initiative reflects the bloc’s aim to enhance economic collaboration and reduce reliance on Western financial networks.
Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with several leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, on the margins of the summit. This meeting is particularly notable given the complex dynamics between India and China. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has stated that these discussions aim to strengthen partnerships and explore new areas for collaboration within BRICS.
As BRICS seeks to redefine its role on the global stage, the outcomes of this summit could have far-reaching implications for international relations and economic cooperation among its members. The expanded bloc is poised to increase its influence in global affairs, making this summit a pivotal moment in shaping the future of international multilateralism.
