Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in New Delhi for the BRICS summit, alongside leaders from India, Russia, and Iran. The two-day meeting of the 11-nation bloc is expected to be dominated by discussions on the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, global trade turbulence, and energy security. Xi's visit marks his first to India since 2019, signifying a cautious thaw in relations between the nuclear-armed rivals.
Summit Agenda and Global Challenges
The BRICS summit, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with new members Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, faces significant challenges. The ongoing wars in the Middle East and Ukraine, along with global trade issues and energy security, are expected to be central topics. The bloc's expansion, seen as an achievement last year, now appears as a constraint due to differing positions on the conflicts.
Xi-Modi Relations and Border Issues
Xi's visit is particularly notable as it comes six years after a deadly military clash along the disputed Tibetan border. Although ties have gradually improved through restored flights, visas, and high-level contacts, the underlying territorial dispute remains unresolved. Both countries maintain heavy military deployments along their roughly 3,500-kilometre border. Xi is scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with experts hoping for an 'early and substantial harvest' on the border issue.
Strategic Partnerships and Regional Dynamics
Modi's embrace of Russian President Vladimir Putin before the talks underscores India's strategic partnerships. India has turned to Russia for energy amid the US-Iran war, despite Moscow's involvement in Ukraine and Western pressure. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian highlighted the critical pressure on Iran following US and Israeli military aggression. India maintains cordial relations with Iran and Israel while balancing ties with Washington.
Why This Matters for Bangladesh
For Bangladesh, the outcomes of the BRICS summit could influence regional stability and economic partnerships. The discussions on trade, energy security, and conflict resolution are particularly relevant, given Bangladesh's strategic location and its own energy and trade challenges. The summit's focus on global issues also highlights the interconnectedness of regional and global dynamics, affecting Bangladesh's foreign policy and economic strategies.
