PM Modi at the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil: Shaping a Multipolar World
By Suryavanshi IAS
Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 5, 2025 (local time), marking the fourth leg of his five-nation tour. His visit includes participation in the 17th BRICS Summit and a historic bilateral state visit to Brazil — the first by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly six decades.
This visit is significant for India’s foreign policy, BRICS dynamics, South-South cooperation, and the evolving multipolar global order.
What is BRICS?
BRICS is a group of major emerging economies:
Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa. As of 2024, five new countries have joined:
-
Egypt
-
Ethiopia
-
Iran
-
Saudi Arabia
-
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Together, they represent:
-
42% of the global population
-
Over 30% of the world GDP (PPP)
-
A growing alternative voice in global governance.
Highlights of PM Modi's Visit
1. Ceremonial Welcome & Diaspora Interaction
-
Received a ceremonial welcome at Galeão International Airport.
-
Greeted by the Indian diaspora with chants of "Bharat Mata ki Jai" and cultural performances.
2. 17th BRICS Summit (July 6–7, 2025)
-
Central theme: “BRICS for Peace, Partnership, and Progress”.
-
Discussion points:
-
Economic recovery post-COVID.
-
Opposition to protectionist tariffs, particularly the Trump-era trade barriers.
-
Reforming global institutions (UNSC, IMF, WTO).
-
Sustainable development, energy security, climate action.
-
3. Bilateral State Visit to Brasília
-
On invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
-
Focus on:
-
Defence cooperation
-
Critical minerals
-
Energy and mining
-
Pharmaceuticals and trade diversification
-
4. Strategic Side Meetings
-
Expected sideline meetings with leaders from:
-
Russia (President Putin)
-
China (President Xi Jinping)
-
South Africa and other new BRICS members
-
Why This Matters for UPSC Aspirants
GS Paper II – International Relations
| Theme | Relevance |
|---|---|
| Multilateralism | Strengthening BRICS as a counter to Western hegemony |
| South-South Cooperation | Engagement with Latin America and Africa |
| Bilateral Relations | India–Brazil ties: First PM visit in nearly 60 years |
| Diaspora Diplomacy | Connecting with Indian communities abroad |
-
BRICS’ collective stance against trade protectionism.
-
Opportunities in critical minerals, pharmaceutical exports, and defence tech.
Essay Paper / Ethics Case Study Ideas
-
“Can Emerging Economies Lead the World?”
-
“The BRICS Dream: Equity in Global Governance”
-
“Balancing National Interest and Global Commitments”
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the 17th BRICS Summit and his bilateral engagements in Brazil reflect India’s expanding diplomatic footprint, its commitment to multipolarity, and a more inclusive global order. The BRICS platform, now with 10 members, has evolved into a serious counterbalance to G7 and other Western-led groupings.
This visit will likely pave the way for greater cooperation among developing economies, reinforcing India’s leadership role in the Global South.
Suryavanshi IAS Tip for UPSC:
Revise India’s multilateral engagements (BRICS, SCO, G20), and prepare comparison tables between BRICS vs G7, and India–Brazil relations. Also, be ready to quote this visit in IR-based mains answers!
No comments:
Post a Comment