October 22, 2024 – Chinese President Xi Jinping, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Russian President Vladimir Putin held discussions on the Ukraine war during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of BRICS expansion talks. The leaders addressed the ongoing conflict, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and peaceful resolution, while also exploring strategies for deepening cooperation within the BRICS group.
The discussions come amid growing geopolitical shifts, with Russia seeking stronger support from non-Western allies while facing Western sanctions and increasing military pressure in Ukraine. Although India and China have avoided taking explicit sides in the conflict, their engagement with Russia reflects their interest in maintaining strategic autonomy in the face of U.S.-led alliances.
Beyond the war in Ukraine, the three leaders discussed how the expanded BRICS could reshape the global economic order. Putin highlighted the group’s potential to challenge Western financial systems by promoting trade in national currencies, reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar. Xi and Modi also expressed interest in fostering greater trade among BRICS members and investing in technology and infrastructure projects across the Global South.
The meeting underscores the balancing act these countries must perform—strengthening their economic and political ties while managing their distinct national interests and diplomatic relationships. The expanded BRICS grouping aims to position itself as a counterbalance to Western influence, with an eye on reshaping global governance institutions.
As the Ukraine war continues to impact global energy markets and supply chains, the deepening cooperation among BRICS members reflects their shared interest in building an alternative global framework.