Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping today (October 23, 2024), on the second day of the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia. This highly anticipated meeting comes after a significant breakthrough between India and China regarding military patrols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The discussions between the two leaders are expected to focus on border issues, trade, and regional security.

Major Developments on Day 1

On the summit’s first day, PM Modi had bilateral meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. In his meeting with Putin, PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to assist in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, emphasizing India’s stance on restoring peace. Modi assured India would provide “all possible assistance” to end the ongoing crisis.

PM Modi also met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, where the two leaders discussed regional stability and de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

Focus on BRICS Expansion

A key topic at this year’s BRICS Summit is the “partner country model,” as highlighted by India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. The discussions are centred on establishing guidelines for including partner countries in the BRICS framework, without necessarily expanding its membership. This new model aims to strengthen cooperation with non-BRICS nations in areas such as trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

Misri also noted that the leaders are expected to discuss “political and strategic issues, economic trade and financial matters, as well as people-to-people and cultural relations” on the second day of the summit.

India’s Role in Global Peace Efforts

During his talks with President Putin, PM Modi stressed the need for restoring peace between Russia and Ukraine. Modi highlighted India’s willingness to play a constructive role in resolving the conflict. While Russia has appreciated India’s balanced approach to the crisis, the international community remains focused on whether the two nations can find common ground to de-escalate tensions.

Russia and Egypt Strengthen Ties

On the sidelines of the summit, Russian President Vladimir Putin also met with Egyptian President Abdelfattah al-Sisi. Sisi praised Russia for its support in Egypt’s national projects, including the construction of the country’s first nuclear power plant at El-Dabaa, built with assistance from Russia’s Rosatom. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in trade and energy.

PM Modi Attends Gandhi Exhibition

In addition to political meetings, PM Modi also visited an exhibition on Mahatma Gandhi in Kazan, underscoring the cultural significance of India’s global contributions. The exhibition was part of the cultural activities associated with the summit, highlighting India’s influence on the international stage beyond politics and economics.

As the BRICS Summit continues, all eyes are on PM Modi’s meeting with Xi Jinping, which could mark a turning point in India-China relations following the LAC breakthrough. The outcome of their talks will be closely watched for its impact on the geopolitical landscape of the region.