With the conclusion of the BRICS 2024 summit, India reiterated its geopolitical stance with clarity in Kazan, Russia. While advocating for the swift restoration of peace between Russia and Ukraine, PM Modi also criticized powers that shelter nations harboring terror groups, calling it a “double standard.”
Talks with China
PM Modi held several high-profile discussions with global leaders on the sidelines of BRICS 2024. Of particular importance were his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, marking the first formal bilateral talks in five years. The timing was crucial as both countries’ military and diplomatic leaderships recently resolved a four-year military standoff in the Depsang and Demchok region along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Cooperation with Iran
In another meeting, PM Modi engaged with Iran’s Masoud Pezeshkian, marking their first official discussion since Masoud’s election as President in July. The leaders focused on strengthening ties in key areas, such as the Chabahar Port and the North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
Source: watcher.guru
Modi-Putin Meeting
Marking his second trip to Russia in three months, PM Modi held bilateral talks with Russian President Putin on the sidelines of BRICS 2024, urging dialogue to end the war in Ukraine. Emphasizing the long-standing friendship between the two nations, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s support for the BRICS platform.
This careful balancing act reflects India’s desire to position itself as a global mediator, especially following PM Modi’s recent visits to Ukraine and the United States. Engaging with China after a long gap also demonstrates a strategic move in light of Russia’s increasing reliance on China as a geopolitical ally.
India’s Global Position
As India emerges as a leader of the Global South, its strategy of multipolar engagement, while maintaining autonomy, showcases its growing influence. This mature diplomatic approach ensures that India’s complex neighborhood relations remain insulated from interference by global powers like China.
BRICS Agenda
BRICS 2024 served as a platform for strengthening India’s international relations while promoting multilateralism, global cooperation, and people-to-people ties. The Kazan Declaration emphasized BRICS solidarity for equitable global development and security. Key discussions centered on sustainability, global supply chains, and energy security, with leaders reaffirming their commitment to inclusive growth, collaboration, and a fairer international order.
