Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently made headlines when they shook hands and greeted each other warmly at the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia. The two leaders, known for their powerful leadership and diplomatic skills, were attending an informal dinner on the sidelines of the Summit. This gesture not only showcases the strong partnership between the two nations, but also signifies a shift in their international priorities.
The duo’s presence at the BRICS Summit is a major blow to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III, who are hosting the biennial Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). This prestigious meeting, attended by 55 nations and led by the monarch of the Commonwealth, is a significant event in the diplomatic calendar. However, due to their commitment to the BRICS Summit, Modi and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will not be attending CHOGM this year.
The BRICS Summit, which will be attended by more than 20 developing nations representing 45% of the world’s population, is a platform for discussions on economic cooperation and global issues. For Putin, this is a major win as it showcases the support he still has from his allies despite ongoing sanctions from the West over his war in Ukraine. It is worth noting that Putin was unable to attend last year’s CHOGM due to an international arrest warrant against him.
When asked about Starmer’s viewpoint on Modi and Ramaphosa’s absence, a spokesperson for 10 Downing Street stated, “It’s a matter for them, the Prime Minister’s focus is very much on CHOGM.” This statement highlights the UK’s commitment to maintaining strong relationships with Commonwealth nations despite the absence of two key leaders.
The BRICS Summit will also see the presence of other prominent leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Sri Lanka, which is currently applying to join BRICS, has also chosen not to send a high-level delegation to CHOGM.
Another notable absence at CHOGM is Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who decided to send the High Commissioner of Ottawa to the UK instead of attending himself. This decision may be seen as a snub to the UK, but it also highlights the increasing importance of the BRICS Summit in the international arena.
This shift in priorities is a potential challenge for the UK as they prepare to host CHOGM. King Charles III, who is still the monarch of 15 Commonwealth countries, may face backlash in Samoa due to his recent encounter with an indigenous senator in Australia who shouted, “not my king” at him. This incident, coupled with Charles’s ongoing battle with cancer, has made this year’s CHOGM particularly challenging for the UK.
Additionally, there are expectations that the UK will face calls for reparations for their role in the slave trade during the summit. However, Downing Street has already stated that they will not be issuing an apology at this year’s CHOGM. These issues highlight the complex and sensitive nature of the summit and the ongoing challenges faced by the Commonwealth.
In the midst of these challenges, one thing is clear – the importance of the BRICS Summit and its role in shaping the global agenda. As more and more nations look towards this platform for economic cooperation and development, it is becoming a crucial player in the international arena.
The UK, as the host of CHOGM, must navigate these challenges and continue to strengthen their relationships with Commonwealth nations. Despite the absence of some key leaders, CHOGM will still see discussions on important issues such as climate change, trade, and security. It is a testament to the UK’s commitment to the Commonwealth and the organization’s ability to come together and work towards a shared future.
In conclusion, the attendance of Putin and Modi at the BRICS Summit in Kazan is a significant moment in international relations. It not only showcases the strong partnership between Russia and India but also highlights the growing importance of the BRICS Summit on the global stage. As the Commonwealth leaders gather in Samoa, it is a reminder of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the organization. And in the face of these challenges, it is important to remember the underlying spirit of the Commonwealth – a commitment to cooperation, development, and a shared future for all its members.
