**Strengthening Ties: India Engages with BRICS Partners in Rio**
Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman conducted a series of bilateral meetings with her counterparts from Russia, Brazil, and China during the BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting held in Rio de Janeiro. These discussions aimed to enhance cooperation and address global economic challenges.
In her meeting with Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Sitharaman emphasized the enduring partnership between India and Russia, expressing gratitude to President Vladimir Putin for his steadfast support following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. She highlighted the “exemplary levels of mutual trust and understanding” that characterize the “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership” between the two nations. The ministers explored avenues for bilateral financial cooperation, developments at the New Development Bank (NDB), and new initiatives within the BRICS framework. Sitharaman congratulated Russia on its upcoming chairmanship of BRICS in 2024 and reiterated India’s commitment to enhancing South-South cooperation through this platform.
Sitharaman also met with Brazilian Finance Minister Fernando Haddad, where they exchanged views on amplifying the voice of the Global South, climate finance ahead of COP30, and collaboration on global platforms such as the UN, G20, WTO, BRICS, and IBSA. She commended Brazil’s leadership in BRICS, particularly its efforts to foster a “multipolar world order” and expand the grouping. India expressed its support for Brazil’s priorities and a focus on practical cooperation as it prepares to assume the BRICS Chairmanship in January 2026. Sitharaman underscored the strategic importance of India-Brazil relations, noting their warm ties and growing collaboration across various sectors.
Earlier, Sitharaman engaged with China’s Finance Minister Lan Fo’an, recalling their previous meeting in Samarkand during the AIIB Annual Meetings in September 2024. She pointed out that India and China, as two of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies, have a significant role in promoting inclusive global growth and innovation. Emphasizing their civilizational ties and economic potential, she urged both nations to work closely to represent the Global South and influence global discussions.
In summary, these meetings reflect India’s proactive approach to strengthening its relationships with key BRICS partners, focusing on mutual interests and collaborative efforts to address pressing global issues.
**FAQ**
**What were the main topics discussed during the BRICS meetings?**
The main topics included bilateral financial cooperation, climate finance, amplifying the voice of the Global South, and collaboration on global platforms like the UN and G20.
