#1 Strategic Cooperation in BRICS, Economic Initiatives and Environmental Commitments

The BRICS grouping, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, represents a significant coalition of emerging economies aimed at fostering cooperation, sustainable growth, and greater influence in global governance

Historical Evolution

1. Origin: Coined in 2001 by economist Jim O’Neill as “BRIC” to underscore the potential of emerging markets. Formalized in 2009 with the first BRIC Summit held in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

2. Expansion: South Africa joined in 2010, transforming BRIC into BRICS.

3. Purpose Provide a platform for emerging economies to influence global economic and political policies. Advocate for reforms in international governance structures like the UN, IMF, and World Bank.

Key Initiatives

1. New Development Bank (NDB): Established in 2014 to finance infrastructure and sustainable development projects.

2. Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA): Ensures liquidity support during balance of payments crises.

3. BRICS Business Council: Promotes trade, investment, and economic collaboration.

4. BRICS Academic Forum: Encourages research partnerships and cultural exchange

Roles of BRICS

Economic Cooperation: Strengthen intra-group trade and investment.

Political Advocacy: Push for equitable representation in global institutions.

Technological Collaboration: Facilitate joint research and innovation.

Cultural Exchange: Enhance mutual understanding among member nations.

Leadership Structure

BRICS has no permanent secretariat; the chairmanship rotates annually among members in accordance with the acronym B-R-I-C-S.

Border Issues Between India and China

India and China share a 3,488 km-long disputed border, which has been a persistent source of tensions and military standoffs.

Key Disputed Regions

1. Aksai Chin: Controlled by China but claimed by India as part of Ladakh.

2. Arunachal Pradesh: Administered by India but claimed by China as “South Tibet.”

3. Doklam Plateau: A tri-junction involving Bhutan, where Chinese construction activities led to a standoff.

4. Line of Actual Control (LAC): The undemarcated border with differing interpretations by both nations.

Historical Context

a. 1962 Sino-Indian War: Resulted in China’s occupation of Aksai Chin.

b. 1967 Nathu La and Cho La Clashes: India successfully defended its positions.

c. 1993 & 1996 Agreements: Pledged to maintain peace along the LAC.

d. Galwan Valley Clash (2020): Marked the first fatalities in decades, intensifying tensions.

Recent Developments

During the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, India and China reached a breakthrough agreement on complete disengagement and resolution of the 2020 border standoff. This development signals a potential thaw in relations.

Steps to Resolve Border Disputes

a. Diplomatic Engagement: Mechanisms like the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) aim to maintain dialogue.

b. Military Talks: Regular commander-level discussions to prevent escalations.

c. Special Representatives Dialogue: Focused on long-term solutions to boundary issues.

Highlights from the 16th BRICS+ Summit

1. Expansion and Influence

New member inclusions broadened the BRICS+ framework, enhancing its global reach.

2. Strategic Discussions

Emphasized multilateral cooperation, economic growth, and addressing challenges relevant to the Global South.

3. Kazan Declaration Ukraine Conflict:

Advocated diplomatic solutions over military actions.

West Asia Crisis: Urged de-escalation in Gaza and Southern Lebanon. Critiqued unilateral Western sanctions for disrupting global economic stability.

4. Economic Initiatives

BRICS Grain Exchange: Proposed for stabilizing grain prices and enhancing food security.

Financial Integration: Focus on trade in local currencies to reduce dependence on dominant global currencies. Highlighted India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) as a model for seamless cross-border payments.