Leadership Meets: PM Modi and President Xi Jinping Shake Hands
The 15th BRICS Summit held in South Africa concluded with a significant handshake between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. In those fleeting moments, leaders engaged in critical discussions, addressing issues that span from border tensions to global diplomacy. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra later shared that both leaders agreed to reduce troop deployments in the Ladakh region and ease tensions, directing officials from both countries to expedite this process.
Diplomatic Dialogues on the Border
During their conversation, PM Modi brought up the unresolved Line of Actual Control (LAC) issue, emphasizing the importance of tranquility on the border for maintaining healthy relations between India and China. This dialogue follows a discussion between Modi and Jinping on the border dispute during the G20 Summit in Indonesia in November 2022.
BRICS Welcomes New Members
In a historic move, BRICS extended invitations to six new countries: Argentina, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Iran. They are set to become permanent members starting from January 1, 2024. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa disclosed that these nations would be formally inducted into BRICS during the first phase of meetings.
Calls for UNSC Membership
The BRICS declaration signed in South Africa also included pleas from Brazil, India, and South Africa for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Following the summit, PM Modi engaged in discussions with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.
India's Role and Agenda
During the summit, PM Modi expressed India's unwavering support for BRICS expansion. He emphasized that the evolving landscape of global organizations necessitates the inclusion of more nations. India committed to actively pursuing the membership of countries currently not part of BRICS.
Key Takeaways from PM Modi's Address
PM Modi's address underscored India's strong commitment to Africa. He spoke of India's deep-rooted historical ties with African nations and the opening of 16 new diplomatic missions on the continent. He also highlighted India's role in Agenda 2063, focusing on Africa's global empowerment.
Global Cooperation and Challenges
PM Modi stressed the importance of addressing global challenges collectively. He mentioned India's contribution to combating terrorism and the provision of vaccines and food supplies to African nations during the COVID-19 pandemic. He reaffirmed India's commitment to seeing the world as one global family.
President Xi Jinping's Perspective
President Xi Jinping regarded the inclusion of new members as a historic step for BRICS, marking a new beginning for the organization. He expressed confidence in BRICS's bright future as long as its members move forward with a common purpose.
Discussion on BRICS Currency
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa disclosed that discussions on a BRICS common currency would take place in the coming year. This marks an intriguing development that could potentially shape the economic landscape of the member countries.
Celebrating a Decade of BRICS
President Ramaphosa celebrated the completion of ten years since the formation of BRICS. He commended the dialogue that addressed global issues and conflicts. He emphasized the organization's commitment to finding solutions through diplomatic means. Additionally, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his desire for BRICS to adopt a common currency.
Acknowledging India's Space Achievements
In a warm gesture, leaders congratulated PM Modi on India's successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the moon. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov lauded Modi during a dinner at the summit.
Why BRICS Matters for India
BRICS holds immense significance for India as it enables India to voice its stance against hegemony in global politics. It supports a multipolar world, allowing India to challenge the dominance of Western-controlled organizations. Being part of BRICS strengthens India's position in major international bodies like the WTO, World Bank, and IMF, giving it the power to question the dominance of developed nations.
The 15th BRICS Summit was more than just a diplomatic event; it was a platform for nations to come together, discuss their concerns, and plan for a more equitable and peaceful future. As BRICS continues to evolve and expand, its influence on global affairs will only become more pronounced.
