BRICS in Turmoil: Can India Navigate the Crises?

The arrival of Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi marks the beginning of an 11-member BRICS summit that promises to be a test of cohesion for this group of major emerging economies. This year’s summit is dominated by discussions on the Middle East and Ukraine conflicts, raising questions about whether India’s delicate balancing act will pay off.

India has carefully managed its relations with Iran and Israel, striking a balance between maintaining good ties with Washington while addressing its energy needs through imports from Russia. However, as tensions in the region escalate, India’s position is becoming increasingly precarious. The Gulf conflict, particularly the US-Israel war on Iran launched in February, threatens to become a central fault line at this year’s summit.

The BRICS grouping has expanded significantly since its inception in 2009. From its original five members – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – it now includes Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. However, this diversification has brought new challenges. The Iranian president’s visit marks his first trip to India since taking office, putting the Middle East conflict firmly on the agenda.

India’s relationship with Russia is particularly significant in this context. As one of its most important strategic partners and fuel suppliers, Moscow has become increasingly indispensable for India amidst the energy crisis caused by the war on Iran. However, this reliance also raises questions about India’s commitment to ending the conflict.

Meanwhile, China’s Xi Jinping is set to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking his first visit since 2019. This development represents a cautious thaw in relations between rival neighbors, six years after a deadly military clash along their disputed Himalayan border. While ties have been warming up recently, deep mistrust remains, and the contested frontier, trade deficit, and strategic rivalry continue to complicate ties.

As tensions escalate, India’s ability to maintain its delicate balance between conflicting interests will be severely tested. The BRICS summit promises to be a defining moment in India’s foreign policy. Will it emerge stronger, or will the challenges prove too great to overcome? The outcome of this year’s summit is far from certain, but one thing is clear: India’s position has never been more precarious.