PM Modi Arrives in Brazil for BRICS Summit Amid Key Discussions
PM Modi's Arrival in Brazil
After completing his visits to Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brazil on Sunday (local time Saturday evening). He is set to participate in the BRICS summit scheduled to take place in Rio de Janeiro in 2025. This year's summit is particularly notable as Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian leader Vladimir Putin will not be attending. Nevertheless, the agenda for this annual meeting is quite extensive.
Details of Modi's Diplomatic Tour
Brazil marks the fourth stop on Prime Minister Modi's five-nation tour, which commenced on July 2. His journey began in Ghana, followed by Trinidad and Tobago, and then he visited Argentina, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in five decades. Following Brazil, he will head to Namibia, concluding this extensive diplomatic mission.
Focus on Terrorism at the BRICS Summit
One of PM Modi's primary objectives is to ensure that the BRICS nations collectively condemn terrorism. It is anticipated that the BRICS declaration to be released in Rio de Janeiro will denounce the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which occurred on April 22 and resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, mostly tourists.
In response to this attack, India initiated Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan.
Key Issues on the Agenda
Climate Finance: Arranging funds to combat climate change.
Collaboration on Artificial Intelligence (AI): Working together in the field of AI.
New Health Initiatives: Introducing new health plans aimed at reducing inequality.
Trade in National Currencies: India is advocating for trade between countries in their own currencies to reduce reliance on the US dollar.
Discussion on US Tariffs
During the meeting of BRICS leaders in Rio de Janeiro, there is an expectation to condemn the "reckless" tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump. These tariffs are anticipated to be labeled as illegal and detrimental to the global economy.
According to a draft statement obtained by a news agency, these emerging nations, representing half of the world's population and contributing 40 percent to global economic output, have united to express "serious concerns" regarding US import tariffs.
While the draft does not directly name the United States or its president, leaders may make amendments during discussions on Sunday and Monday.
The draft states, 'We express serious concern over the rise of unilateral tariffs and non-tariff measures that hinder trade and violate WTO rules.' It warns that such actions threaten to further diminish global trade and impact the prospects for global economic growth.