‘BRICS Not Anti-Western Group’: Russian President Putin Ahead Of 16th Summit, Slams US Over Sanctions
Russian President Putin emphasised BRICS' non-aligned stance and its focus on economic growth. He acknowledged PM Modi's concerns over the Ukraine conflict, highlighting commitment to peaceful resolution.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a press briefing ahead of the 16th BRICS Summit, highlighted remarks made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasising that the BRICS grouping is not positioned against Western countries. Putin stated, “BRICS was never meant to be against anyone. The Indian Prime Minister put it aptly, he has said that BRICS is not an anti-Western group, it's just a non-Western group, and this holds a lot of water. BRICS does not counterpose itself to anyone. It is a group of nations that have shared values and goals for development.”
It is unclear whether Putin was referring to direct talks with PM Modi as he cited his remarks or External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar who has said on several instances that India is non-West but not anti-West.
VIDEO | "BRICS was never meant to be against anyone. The Indian Prime Minister put it aptly, he has said that BRICS is not anti-Western group, it's just a non-Western group, and this holds a lot of water. BRICS does not counterpose itself to anyone. It is a group of nations that… pic.twitter.com/eduzso92XQ
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 18, 2024
According to news agency ANI, Putin also discussed the economic prospects of BRICS nations, mentioning, “A positive growth will be witnessed in China, India, Saudi Arabia... With respect to BRICS member nations, the growth of their economies will increase their clout. There has been continuous growth in trade (in BRICS nations).”
Earlier, Putin had said that India, China, and Brazil could be potential mediators to bring an end to the Ukraine conflict. When asked if potential mediation could exist in the near future, Putin acknowledged PM Modi’s repeated concerns about the situation. According to news agency PTI, he remarked, “Just now, your colleague asked a question about Iran and Israel, and I said that if our mediation is wanted, we will gladly work with the colleagues. Same refers to our friends, in particular Prime Minister Modi. While talking with him over the phone, each time he raises this matter and expresses his consideration... we are grateful to him for that.”
VIDEO | Russian President Vladimir Putin replied to a question by PTI (@PTI_News) Executive Editor G Sudhakar Nair, the only Indian journalist invited at the President's interaction with select media ahead of the 2024 BRICS Summit.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 18, 2024
Question: My question relates to a point where… pic.twitter.com/QUqVX3lyIY
He noted that while a timeline for ending the war is “difficult, counterproductive,” Russia is committed to a peaceful resolution, adding, “It was not us who stopped the negotiations but it was the Ukrainian side.”
#WATCH | On Ukraine conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin says,"...While talking with PM Modi, each time he raises this matter and expresses his considerations. We are thankful to him for that..."
— ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2024
(Video source: Russian Pool via Reuters) pic.twitter.com/kOVoaQfR93
Putin On Russia's Relations With China, US
The Russian President also commented on Russia's strategic relationship with China, saying, “Russia and China have established a unique relationship... The interaction of Russia and China in the international arena is one of the key factors of global strategic stability.”
On relations with the United States, Putin remarked, “The US has spoilt its relationship with Russia by imposing sanctions continuously, and it has impacted them negatively. The entire world is thinking if the Dollar is worth using... Even the traditional allies of the US have reduced their Dollar reserves.”
#WATCH | Russian President Vladimir Putin says,"...The US has spoilt its relationship with Russia by imposing sanctions continuously and it has impacted them negatively. The entire world is thinking if the Dollar is worth using...Even the traditional allies of the US have reduced… pic.twitter.com/yfpo7C7rUd
— ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2024
ALSO READ | PM Modi To Attend 16th BRICS Summit In Russia From October 22-23, Marking His Second Visit This Year
Indian Films Most Popular In Russia: Vladimir Putin
When asked about the possibility of incentives for BRICS members to shoot films in Russia, Putin highlighted the popularity of Indian films in the country, noting, “If we look at BRICS member states, I think in this country Indian films are most popular. We have a special TV channel with Indian movies being shown on it round the clock... We are positive that if Indian films are interested, we will find some common ground and promote them in Russia.” He also expressed readiness to explore collaboration in other sectors like pharmaceuticals with India.
#WATCH | On being asked about if Russia will give incentives to BRICS memeber states for shooting of films in the country, Russian President Putin says, "If we look at BRICS member states, I think in this country Indian films are most popular. We have a special TV channel with… pic.twitter.com/w0QGNdH0IV
— ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2024
The 16th BRICS Summit, to be held in Kazan, Russia, from October 22-23, will see the participation of PM Modi. The summit’s theme, "Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security," will serve as a platform for discussions on major global issues and future cooperation.
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