Modi to Skip BRICS Summit as Xi, Putin Focus on US Trade
The summit, hosted virtually by Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, comes at a critical moment in global trade politics. The focus will be on Washington’s tariff policies, which have strained international supply chains and heightened calls for a more balanced multilateral trade framework.
While Modi skips the meeting, Jaishankar’s participation underscores India’s ongoing commitment to shaping global trade discourse. According to officials, India will emphasize the importance of diversifying exports, reducing dependency on single markets, and building resilient supply chains to withstand external shocks.
At a recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in Vladivostok, India highlighted the role of services trade and temporary movement of skilled professionals. Officials argued that these factors are essential for sustainable growth and increased participation of small and medium enterprises in global value chains.
Additional Secretary Amitabh Kumar, representing the Ministry of Commerce & Industry at the SCO Trade Ministers’ meeting, stressed coordinated action among member states to support inclusive growth and mitigate the negative impacts of tariffs. Government sources suggest this message will be reiterated at the BRICS summit.
Xi and Putin’s Role
China’s foreign ministry confirmed that President Xi will deliver an “important speech” during the summit. His address comes shortly after a high-profile show of unity with Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at a military parade marking World War II’s end, an event that drew sharp criticism from Washington.
Putin’s participation signals Russia’s intent to counterbalance Western trade policies alongside Beijing. Observers say the duo will likely push for a stronger BRICS voice in global trade governance, advocating reduced reliance on the US-led system.
India’s Balancing Act
India faces a delicate challenge: maintaining constructive relations with both the West and its BRICS partners. By sending Jaishankar instead of Modi, New Delhi signals measured engagement—keen to influence discussions without directly aligning against Washington’s trade policies.
Analysts note that India’s strategy reflects its broader economic priorities: securing diversified markets, enhancing resilience, and protecting domestic industries from tariff shocks. This aligns with recent government initiatives to expand manufacturing capacity and boost exports under schemes like Make in India.