Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for Kazan, Russia, to participate in the 16th Brics Summit from October 22 to 24. This visit marks Modi's second trip to Russia in 2024, following his attendance at the India-Russia annual summit in July.

1. The theme of this year's summit is “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,” which provides a crucial platform for leaders to address significant global challenges, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs.
2. Modi expressed his enthusiasm for the summit on social media, saying, “Leaving for Kazan, Russia, to take part in the Brics Summit. India attaches immense importance to Brics, and I look forward to extensive discussions on a wide range of subjects. I also look forward to meeting various leaders there.”
3. During the summit, Modi is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Prime Minister's Office highlighted that India values the close cooperation within Brics, which has become an essential platform for dialogue on issues like the global development agenda, reformed multilateralism, climate change, economic cooperation, and building resilient supply chains.
4. Chinese President Xi Jinping is also set to attend the summit, although it remains unclear if a meeting with Modi will take place. The summit will feature discussions among Brics member states and other invited leaders.
5. Key activities during Russia's chairmanship include integrating invited countries as full members and advancing the partner country model, along with identifying prospective partner nations. Vinay Kumar, the Indian Ambassador to Russia, emphasized India's commitment to economic cooperation as a foundational principle of Brics.
6. This summit is particularly significant as it is the largest of its kind held in Russia since the conflict in Ukraine began. It comes amid efforts by President Putin to counter Western attempts to isolate Moscow.
7. While the United States has downplayed concerns about Brics becoming a “geopolitical rival,” it remains wary of Russia's use of diplomatic influence during the ongoing conflict. Additionally, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres will be attending the summit, marking his first visit to Russia since April 2022, and is scheduled to meet with Putin.
8. The Brics group currently represents 45 percent of the global population and 35 percent of the world economy based on purchasing power parity, with China contributing more than half of this economic strength.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia for the 16th Brics Summit underscores India's commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation on global issues. As leaders convene in Kazan, the summit presents a vital opportunity for dialogue on pressing challenges, from climate change to economic collaboration. Modi's anticipated discussions with key leaders, including President Putin, highlight the significance of Brics as a platform for fostering partnerships and addressing the evolving geopolitical landscape. With the group representing a substantial portion of the world’s population and economy, the outcomes of this summit could play a pivotal role in shaping future international relations and development strategies.

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