Prime Minister Narendra Modi's participation in the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, underscores India's continued commitment to this influential grouping of emerging economies. The summit, held on July 6 and 7, 2025, brought together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, as well as new member countries including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia. This expansion highlights the growing importance of BRICS as a platform for shaping a more inclusive and equitable global future.
Key Discussions and India's Role
The BRICS Summit addressed critical global issues, including multilateralism, artificial intelligence, climate action, peace and security, and economic resilience. PM Modi actively engaged with fellow leaders, exchanging views on these matters during the summit sessions. He emphasized that the Global South has often been a victim of "double standards," particularly concerning development, resource distribution, and security. He also pointed out that countries making significant contributions to the global economy still lack representation in key decision-making bodies.
India's role within BRICS is multifaceted. As one of the founding members, India views BRICS as a vital platform to advance the interests of emerging economies while safeguarding its strategic autonomy. Through BRICS, India can leverage strategic advantages, including increased influence over global governance reform, alternative financial mechanisms, and enhanced cooperation on critical issues such as energy security, technology, and climate change. Membership in BRICS also provides India with a valuable opportunity to counterbalance China's growing influence in the Global South while fostering closer economic and cultural ties with other emerging economies.
Benefits for India
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the potential benefits, India faces certain challenges within the BRICS framework. One significant challenge is balancing its relationships with major powers, particularly China. India's efforts to promote a multipolar order sometimes clash with China's growing influence. Moreover, India needs to navigate the internal divergences among BRICS members and the potential risks of the bloc becoming too China-centric or being perceived as anti-Western.
Another challenge is that as BRICS seeks an alternative payments architecture and unified trade positions, India's growing alignment with Washington introduces hesitation, dilutes consensus and risks turning the grouping into little more than a photo-op.
Looking Ahead
India will assume the BRICS Chairship next year, which presents an opportunity to further shape the group's agenda and promote its vision for a more inclusive and equitable world. India's priorities will likely include strengthening multilateralism, promoting responsible use of artificial intelligence, addressing climate change, and enhancing global health and economic cooperation.
PM Modi's participation in the BRICS Summit in Brazil reaffirms India's commitment to this important forum. By actively engaging in discussions, promoting its interests, and addressing the challenges, India can leverage BRICS to advance its foreign policy objectives and contribute to a more balanced and multipolar world order.
