Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set off for Johannesburg to attend the 15th BRICS Summit, where leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa will convene to discuss crucial global matters. In his departure statement, Modi voiced his anticipation for holding bilateral meetings with fellow leaders during the summit.
Invited by South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, Modi’s participation in the BRICS Summit bears significance as this year’s event holds the theme “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development and inclusive multilateralism.” The summit marks a pivotal moment for enhancing cooperation among these influential economies.
“I am visiting the Republic of South Africa from 22-24 August 2023 at the invitation of Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, to attend the 15th BRICS Summit being held in Johannesburg under the South African Chairmanship,” Modi affirmed.
Modi’s visit to Greece following the summit adds another layer of historic importance. He stated, “I also have the honour to be the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Greece after 40 years.” He emphasized the depth of ties between the two countries, rooted in shared values of democracy, rule of law, and pluralism, spanning centuries.
The BRICS Summit, taking place from August 22 to 24, is emblematic of the strengthened partnership between the member countries. This marks Modi’s third visit to South Africa and coincides with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and South Africa.
This gathering holds exceptional significance as it will be the first in-person BRICS Summit in three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The summit aims to chart a course for mutually accelerated growth, sustainable development, and inclusive multilateralism. Key issues on the agenda include economic collaboration, global health challenges, and climate change mitigation.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra revealed that a significant Indian business delegation will be present, participating in Business Tracks meetings and engagements with the BRICS Business Council, BRICS Women Business Alliance, and BRICS Business Forum.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will join the summit virtually, with the Russian delegation led by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Additionally, a special event under the theme “Brics – Africa outreach and Brics plus dialogue” is scheduled, inviting several African countries for further engagement.
The anticipation surrounding PM Modi’s bilateral meetings and discussions on global challenges cements India’s commitment to fostering cooperation among BRICS nations. As the summit commences, the world watches with interest as these influential economies convene to shape the course of future partnerships and global development.
Sources By Agencies
