The revival of the Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral format is once again on the table, with Moscow actively seeking to reinvigorate this strategic alliance. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has recently reiterated Moscow's strong interest in resuming activities within the RIC framework, signaling a potential shift in Eurasian geopolitics.
The RIC trilateral, an initiative conceived by former Russian Prime Minister Yevgeny Primakov, aims to foster greater cooperation and coordination between these three major Eurasian powers. The platform has facilitated numerous ministerial-level meetings, addressing a wide range of issues from foreign policy to economic and financial cooperation. However, the grouping's prominence has somewhat faded over time, overshadowed by the rise of other multilateral forums such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Several factors contribute to Moscow's renewed interest in the RIC format. Firstly, Russia sees the RIC as a valuable tool for enhancing Eurasian security and cooperation, particularly in light of evolving geopolitical dynamics. Secondly, the recent improvement in India-China border relations presents a window of opportunity for renewed dialogue and engagement within the RIC framework. According to Lavrov, an understanding has been reached between India and China on easing border tensions, paving the way for a potential revitalization of the RIC troika.
However, the path to RIC revival is not without its challenges. Historical tensions and border disputes between India and China have previously hindered the group's progress. Moreover, differing strategic orientations and external partnerships among the three nations add complexity to the equation. India's commitment to the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" (FOIP) concept, which is viewed with skepticism by both Russia and China, presents another potential hurdle.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of a revitalized RIC are significant. The RIC could serve as a crucial platform for promoting multipolarity in international relations, counteracting the dominance of the United States and its allies. It could also facilitate deeper economic cooperation and integration among the three countries, unlocking new opportunities for trade, investment, and infrastructure development. Furthermore, the RIC could play a vital role in addressing shared security concerns, such as terrorism, climate change, and energy security.
The timing of Moscow's push for RIC revival is also noteworthy. Amidst growing geopolitical tensions and Western efforts to isolate Russia, the RIC offers Moscow a valuable opportunity to strengthen its ties with two major Asian powers. For India, the RIC provides a platform to engage with both Russia and China, promoting dialogue and managing potential conflicts. China, on the other hand, may see the RIC as a way to advance its Belt and Road Initiative and expand its influence in Eurasia.
Whether the RIC can overcome its past challenges and emerge as a significant force in Eurasian geopolitics remains to be seen. However, Moscow's renewed interest in the trilateral format suggests that the time may indeed have come for a revival of this strategic alliance. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Russia, India, and China can find common ground and forge a stronger, more cooperative partnership within the RIC framework.
