The Russia-hosted BRICS summit in Kazan was a significant event, as it was the largest international gathering held in Russia since the country invaded Ukraine over two years ago. The summit was perceived as an opportunity for the Kremlin to improve its image and strengthen its influence in the Global South. Key world leaders attended, including those from China, India, South Africa, and Ethiopia, with the notable absence of Brazil’s President, who was represented by the Foreign Minister due to health reasons. Despite criticism, Turkish President Erdogan was also in attendance, making him the only NATO leader present.
During the summit, discussions touched on various topics, including the challenging international environment, the conflict in Ukraine, and many others. Chinese leader Xi Jinping praised the strong relationship between China and Russia in a turbulent world. Indian Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine during his meeting with Putin. Serbia, despite being advised by the EU to refrain from contacts with Russia, had high-ranking officials attending the summit and expressed support for BRICS as an alternative to the EU.
The BRICS+ members released the Kazan declaration, a final communique that covered a wide range of topics, including the situation in Ukraine, the Middle East, and new financial mechanisms. The alliance supported a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine through dialogue and diplomacy, expressed concern over military actions in the Middle East, and backed the admission of Palestine to the UN. The declaration also highlighted the need for reforms in the international financial architecture and emphasized the use of local currencies in financial transactions among BRICS countries.
At the summit, there were some incidents, such as the partial shutdown of mobile internet in Kazan and warnings to activists and journalists against participating in unauthorized protests. Despite these challenges, analysts believe the summit provided Russia with an opportunity to enhance global ties with non-Western states and establish trade mechanisms to mitigate the impact of Western sanctions. While some believe the summit will help Putin improve his global standing, others argue that BRICS partners are unlikely to assist Russia in winning the war in Ukraine. BRICS+ members may view the alliance as a strategic hedge rather than a vehicle for following Moscow into a post-Western world.
In conclusion, the BRICS summit in Kazan was a significant event that helped Russia showcase its global ties and potentially mitigate the impact of Western sanctions. While the summit addressed various international issues and agreements were reached, the practical impact on the ongoing conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, remains uncertain. The diverse perspectives and interests of the BRICS+ members highlight the complex dynamics of the alliance and its role in the changing global landscape.
