Date : 21/08/2023

Relevance – GS Paper 2 – International Relations

Keywords – BRICS, Geopolitical landscape, Global Security, Russian invasion

Context –

All eyes are currently fixed on Johannesburg as leaders from the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) grouping convene for the 15th BRICS summit. This summit carries profound importance, particularly for India, against the backdrop of geopolitical shifts and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As the first in-person BRICS summit since 2019, it provides a platform for addressing not only economic matters but also critical geopolitical concerns, such as the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The summit's composition, with its emphasis on emerging economies, has the potential to shape a "counter-western" narrative. Given these factors, Western capitals are closely observing the outcomes of this summit.

The Geopolitical Landscape and BRICS' Role:

The current geopolitical scenario has amplified the significance of the BRICS summit. This meeting occurs after the Russian incursion into Ukraine, a development that has not only destabilized global security but also impacted key sectors such as energy and food. BRICS discussions are seen as having a counter-western perspective, which takes on added importance as the United States and the European Union strive to diplomatically isolate Russia due to the conflict. Additionally, the return to power of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in Brazil introduces a more socialist and anti-western stance, diverging from the policies of his predecessor, President Bolsonaro.

India's Stake in the BRICS Summit:

For India, the 15th BRICS summit holds special significance. This in-person meeting marks the first since the military standoff with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) began in 2020. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's participation provides a unique opportunity for direct engagement with President Xi Jinping, with whom he had previous interactions at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and G20 summits. The BRICS setting, with a small group of just four leaders, offers ample space for bilateral discussions. The recent joint statement resulting from the 19th round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting reflects positive progress in resolving the LAC situation.

India's Objectives and Expectations:

Several objectives drive India's active participation in this summit. Firstly, as the host of the upcoming G20 summit, India seeks to ensure full attendance by all BRICS leaders, fostering collaboration and meaningful dialogue on key global issues. India's desire for greater cooperation from China and Russia, who are hindering discussions on a unified declaration language, aligns with its ambitions for comprehensive discussions at the G20 summit. India anticipates talks on contentious topics, including Ukraine, climate change, and debt financing.

Key Participants and Absences:

The summit will witness the participation of prominent leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Brazilian President Lula. Russian President Vladimir Putin, while absent in person, will attend virtually due to his warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC). This absence underscores the complexities surrounding his attendance, given South Africa's status as an ICC signatory. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will oversee the event in Johannesburg. The summit also extends invitations to the African Union (AU) members and other representatives from the Global South, promoting cooperation among developing nations.

Agenda and Expansion of BRICS:

The summit agenda encompasses discussions among BRICS leaders, participation in the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue, and the focus on BRICS expansion. The grouping, originally conceived to unite fast-growing developing economies, has yielded significant outcomes, including the establishment of the New Development Bank and Contingency Reserve Arrangement. Over 40 countries express interest in joining BRICS, with consensus building around countries such as Argentina, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran. India's recent conversation with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi underscores the potential expansion decision.

Key Discussion Points and Future Collaborations:

BRICS leaders aim to foster intra-BRICS trading in national currencies, bolstered by previous discussions. While the notion of a "BRICS currency" to challenge the dominance of the dollar may not be on the immediate agenda, the Johannesburg Declaration will incorporate positions on various global developments. South Africa's theme for the summit, "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism," aligns with priorities such as climate change, African trade, and women's participation in peace processes. India's keenness to monitor language proposed by China underscores Beijing's significant influence within BRICS.

Conclusion:

The 15th BRICS summit holds multifaceted importance for India, offering a platform for addressing geopolitical concerns, facilitating bilateral talks, and advancing economic collaborations. As the global landscape continues to evolve, BRICS remains a critical forum for emerging economies to engage and collaborate on key global challenges. The outcomes of this summit will not only impact the member nations but also shape the broader trajectory of international relations and cooperation.

Source – The Hindu