India Emphasizes Strong Cooperation at BRICS Summit Amid Global Tensions
KAZAN, RUSSIA – Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the significance of the BRICS alliance as he prepared to attend the 16th summit of the grouping in Kazan, Russia, on Tuesday. Modi described BRICS as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration on critical global issues, particularly regarding the developmental agenda.
In a statement released prior to his two-day visit, Modi highlighted that the recent expansion of BRICS— which welcomed new members last year— has enhanced the organization’s inclusivity and broadened its global agenda. "India values the close cooperation within BRICS, which has emerged as an important platform for dialogue and discussion on issues concerning the global development agenda, reformed multilateralism, climate change, economic cooperation, and building resilient supply chains," Modi remarked.
The summit, hosted by Russia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the conflict in Ukraine and rising issues in West Asia, is viewed as an opportunity for non-Western powers to bolster their influence on the global stage. Modi is scheduled to hold a series of bilateral meetings during the summit, including discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. This gathering marks the first convening of BRICS since its expansion at last year’s summit in Johannesburg, where Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates were added to the lineup.
Modi also noted that his visit to Kazan would deepen the "Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership" between India and Russia, which he reaffirmed during a previous visit to Moscow in July. "Building upon the annual summit held in July 2024 in Moscow, my visit to Kazan will further reinforce our partnership," he stated, expressing anticipation for fruitful discussions with fellow BRICS leaders.
The origins of BRIC date back to 2006, when Russia, India, and China first convened in St. Petersburg. The formal grouping expanded to include South Africa in 2010, with the most recent enlargement in 2023, signaling a significant shift in the landscape of international diplomacy.
As Modi embarks on this crucial visit, the global community watches closely, anticipating the outcomes of discussions that could shape international policies on development, cooperation, and stability in the years to come.
