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.
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.”
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.”
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.”
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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.
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.