In the upcoming days, Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to meet with several world leaders in the city of Kazan for a meeting of the BRICS bloc of developing economies. This gathering includes leaders from China, India, Turkey, and Iran, among others, showcasing a defiance against predictions of Putin becoming isolated due to the war in Ukraine and an international arrest warrant against him.
The BRICS alliance, initially consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded this year with the addition of countries like Iran, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The summit aims to counterbalance the Western-led world order and provide opportunities for member countries to strengthen economic and strategic ties.
For Russia, the summit presents a chance to enhance trade relations and bypass Western sanctions by engaging with key partners like India and China. The Kremlin is also looking to expand a payment system project as an alternative to the SWIFT network, ensuring trade continuity despite sanctions.
Additionally, Russia is expected to sign a strategic partnership treaty with Iran, further solidifying their ties. Iran seeks advanced Russian weaponry for defense purposes, while Russia benefits from Iran's support in the conflict with Ukraine.
China, a key player in BRICS, aims to promote an alternative to the U.S.-led world order through economic and military cooperation within the bloc. The summit will allow China and Russia to strengthen their partnership and explore the possibility of a new international trading currency.
India, another significant participant, maintains a delicate balance between its ties with Russia and the West. The meeting between Modi and Putin could lead to a reassessment of their relationship amidst global pressures to end the war in Ukraine.
Turkey's potential membership in BRICS reflects its growing frustration with the West and desire to diversify its alliances. Erdogan sees participation in BRICS as a way to assert Turkey's position on the global stage and leverage its relationships with both Western and non-Western powers.
