Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a journey to Johannesburg to partake in the 15th BRICS Summit. Prior to his visit to South Africa, Modi expressed his anticipation for engaging in bilateral discussions with several global leaders in Johannesburg. His attendance at the BRICS Summit was extended as an invitation from South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, as stated by the Prime Minister’s Office.
“The specifics of the Prime Minister’s schedule regarding bilateral interactions with attending leaders are still in the process of development”
Modi conveyed that the summit presents a valuable opportunity for member nations to identify potential areas of collaboration and evaluate institutional growth. He highlighted the proactive cooperative agenda that BRICS has been pursuing across various sectors.
We recognize the significance of BRICS evolving into a platform for discourse and contemplation on issues concerning the broader Global South, encompassing developmental imperatives and the reformation of the multilateral framework,” he affirmed.
I also eagerly anticipate engaging in one-on-one discussions with several leaders gathered in Johannesburg,” Modi expressed.
I am scheduled to visit the Republic of South Africa from August 22nd to 24th, 2023, following an invitation from President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa. The purpose of my visit is to attend the 15th BRICS Summit hosted in Johannesburg under the leadership of South Africa,” Modi stated.
He added, “I am also looking forward to engaging in bilateral dialogues with select leaders present at the Johannesburg gathering.”
Modi further disclosed his plans to journey to Athens, Greece on August 25th, following an invitation from Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
BRICS, A consortium of world economies including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is convening for the summit from August 22nd to 24th.
“This excursion marks my maiden visit to this ancient land. I am honored to be the first Indian Prime Minister to set foot in Greece in over four decades,” he articulated.
Modi underscored the historical connections between India and Greece, stretching back over two millennia, with modern-day ties bolstered by shared democratic values, rule of law, and pluralism. He highlighted cooperation in diverse sectors such as trade, investment, defense, culture, and people-to-people interactions that have drawn the two nations closer.
Eagerly anticipating his Greek visit, Modi conveyed his aspirations for opening a new chapter in the multi-dimensional relationship between the two countries.
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BRICS, a consortium of world economies including Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is convening for the summit from August 22nd to 24th. This marks Modi’s third visit to South Africa and commemorates the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and South Africa.
The current presidency of BRICS rests with South Africa this year. The central theme for the summit is “BRICS and Africa: Fostering Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism.”
This event signifies the return to in-person meetings after three consecutive years of virtual sessions due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a briefing preceding Modi’s voyages to South Africa and Greece, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra highlighted, “As mentioned earlier, the host nation, South Africa, has invited not only numerous guest countries but also the attending BRICS members.”
Kwatra disclosed that an Indian business delegation would also be present, participating in the Business Tracks meetings.
Elaborating on the Prime Minister’s itinerary, Kwatra elucidated, “For the 15th BRICS Summit, an Indian business delegation is also en route to South Africa to take part in the Business Tracks meetings, along with sessions of the BRICS Business Council, BRICS Women Business Alliance, and the BRICS Business Forum.”
“The specifics of the Prime Minister’s schedule regarding bilateral interactions with attending leaders are still in the process of development,” Kwatra clarified.
While Russian President Vladimir Putin will virtually engage in the 15th summit, the Russian delegation will be led by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Lavrov will also participate in a special event themed “BRICS – Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue.”
