India’s increasing influence on the global stage was evident at the recent BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with key leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The summit showcased India’s unique position, bridging ties between Eastern nations like China and Russia while maintaining strong relations with Western countries in the G7—though relations with Canada remain tense.
Prime Minister Modi’s conversation with President Xi was particularly notable, as it marked their first formal interaction since relations soured due to border tensions. Their engagement underscores India’s role as a mediator on complex issues, balancing its ties between major powers while focusing on easing military standoffs and maintaining stability.
India’s Growing Diplomatic Clout in Conflict Mediation
With the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, New Delhi’s reputation as a neutral mediator has grown. Modi’s standing as a leader respected by both Russian and Ukrainian leaders is significant, positioning India as a potential diplomatic partner in conflict resolution. At the summit, Modi also met with Iran’s Masoud Pezeshkian, reiterating India’s commitment to global peace and calling out “double standards” in terrorism, a subtle critique of China’s support for Pakistan despite its history of supporting extremist networks.
India’s role at BRICS highlights its evolving diplomatic power. As one of the bloc’s fastest-growing economies, India is poised to drive key initiatives in digital technology, sustainable development, and counter-terrorism efforts. India’s focus on economic growth and stability within BRICS is coupled with calls for global governance reforms, reinforcing its position in the Global South while maintaining cooperative ties with the West.
India’s balanced foreign policy also allows it to navigate alliances with both BRICS and G7 nations, except Canada, where diplomatic tensions have arisen over Canada’s allegations regarding the killing of Khalistani figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar. While the dispute has impacted trade and immigration, India’s continued engagement with other G7 nations emphasizes its role as a reliable diplomatic partner. Its alignment with the G7 on issues such as Indo-Pacific maritime security and counter-terrorism reflects India’s commitment to regional and global stability.
India and the Arctic: Expanding Influence Beyond Asia
India’s interest in the Russian Arctic and the Northern Sea Route (NSR) highlights its expanding global focus. Discussions at BRICS about Indo-Russian projects in the Arctic, including plans to build ships and provide training for Indian sailors in polar waters, illustrate India’s strategic push into resource-rich areas. Security talks also underscored India’s calls for intelligence sharing and regional cooperation, particularly on counter-terrorism and cross-border threats, which are growing concerns for the broader Asian region.
Throughout the BRICS summit, Prime Minister Modi advocated for peace and diplomacy, aligning with India’s vision as a mediator in global conflicts, including the ongoing Gaza conflict. Modi’s emphasis on dialogue and restraint reflects India’s long-standing support for Palestine while balancing strong ties with Israel. India’s dual approach to complex issues showcases its ability to handle delicate international relationships with a firm yet flexible stance.
In summary, India’s leadership at the BRICS summit reaffirms its evolving global role. By balancing relationships within BRICS and G7, India has positioned itself as a diplomatic bridge. Its engagement in economic, security, and cultural partnerships further solidifies India’s emerging status as a global leader, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of international relations and global stability.