As the 15th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) Summit unfolds in Johannesburg, South Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for a significant gathering that marks the group’s first in-person engagement since the pandemic today. The BRICS Summit, scheduled from August 22nd to 24th, brings together the leaders of these major economies to deliberate on mutual cooperation, development, and global governance. The summit gains even more spotlight due to the possibility of a bilateral meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping on its sidelines.
This morning, PM Narendra Modi tweeted:
This event, under the South African chairmanship, seeks to address shared concerns of the Global South, nurture collaboration across sectors, and review institutional development. PM Modi highlighted the value of BRICS as a platform for discussing multifaceted issues and reforming the multilateral system. “BRICS has been pursuing a strong cooperation agenda across various sectors,” said PM Modi, reflecting on the collective intent of the member nations to drive sustainable growth and inclusive multilateralism.
With anticipation surrounding a potential meeting between PM Modi and President Xi Jinping, both leaders express readiness for diplomatic engagement. Amidst border tensions and a recent history of virtual interactions, this bilateral encounter could be a turning point. The diplomatic channels remain open for discussion on resolving outstanding issues and promoting peace.
Following his participation in the BRICS Summit, PM Modi’s next destination will be Greece, where he is set to be the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the nation in four decades on August 25. The visit holds the potential to strengthen ties between India and Greece, with a focus on trade, investment, defense, and cultural exchanges.
The BRICS Summit aligns with the spirit of global cooperation and consensus-building, showcasing its significance as a prominent geopolitical entity. The event includes engagements such as the BRICS–Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue, emphasizing collaboration between the bloc and other invited nations. This endeavor contributes to the broader narrative of collective growth and development across regions.
The summit’s schedule spans various events, such as the BRICS Business Forum leaders’ dialogue, culminating in the BRICS Leaders’ Retreat and an ensuing dinner hosted by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. As world leaders gather in Johannesburg, the discussions and dialogues hold the promise of shaping global priorities, reinforcing diplomatic relationships, and cultivating a collective vision of progress.
