Russia has clarified that it played no role in the recent meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the 16th BRICS Summit but expressed its satisfaction that the leaders held their first bilateral talks in five years in Kazan. Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov emphasized the significance of the agreement reached on military disengagement at two friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)—Demchok and Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh.
During the October 23 meeting, Modi and Xi discussed border issues and bilateral cooperation. Alipov stated that strengthening India-China ties is essential for “holistic development and unity around the world.” He remarked, “It is important and desirable that India and China maintain stable and good relations, as this is favorable for Eurasian security and beneficial for the world at large.”
In discussing the BRICS summit’s outcomes, Alipov hailed it as a “total success” and noted that BRICS is an “inclusive platform,” asserting that it is “not anti-West but non-West.” The summit was notable for its expanded format, bringing together leaders from 35 countries to address development issues and global governance reform. One of the key outcomes was the establishment of a new category of BRICS “partner states,” aimed at allowing more countries to engage with the bloc’s initiatives.
