As Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in South Africa to participate in the XVth BRICS summit in Johannesburg, the spotlight is on whether he will engage in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This has sparked intrigue, especially considering the ongoing three-year standoff at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

Speculation and Uncertainty

Speculation regarding a potential meeting between the two leaders gained momentum after Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra mentioned that the PM’s itinerary was still under development. He didn’t explicitly deny the possibility of Modi and Xi meeting on the sidelines of various BRICS events. Recent talks between LAC commanders seeking a breakthrough in issues like disengagement and de-escalation have further fueled this speculation.

PM’s Schedule and Bilateral Meetings

Foreign Secretary Kwatra stated that PM Modi’s schedule for bilateral meetings with other leaders present in South Africa was still being finalized. This leaves room for the possibility of a scheduled bilateral meeting between Modi and Xi. Such a meeting would be significant, marking the first formal dialogue between them since the 2019 BRICS summit in Brazil.

Past Interactions

Since the LAC standoff and the tragic events at Galwan, there have been diplomatic talks between India and China at various levels, including Foreign Ministers, Defence Ministers, and NSA-level officials. However, Prime Minister Modi and President Xi have not held formal talks or spoken over the phone since then. Their interactions have been limited to casual encounters at international events.

The Significance of a Meeting

A potential meeting between Modi and Xi is not only important for resolving the LAC issue but also for addressing other matters, including the G-20 Joint Declaration statement that China and Russia are currently blocking. This statement is set to be released at the G-20 summit in the near future.

BRICS Summit Agenda

During the BRICS summit, PM Modi will participate in various events, including a Leaders’ Retreat, a day-long summit with other BRICS leaders, and BRICS-Africa outreach meetings. These meetings offer opportunities for diplomatic discussions and collaboration.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to South Africa for the BRICS summit presents the possibility of crucial talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Such a meeting could have far-reaching implications, not only for addressing the LAC standoff but also for resolving other diplomatic issues on the global stage. The world will be closely watching these developments in Johannesburg.

Frequently Asked Questions about Modi’s South Africa Visit and Possible Meeting with Xi Jinping

1. What is the purpose of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to South Africa?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting South Africa to attend the XVth BRICS summit in Johannesburg. BRICS is an association of five major emerging national economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

2. Why is there speculation about a meeting between Modi and Xi Jinping?

There is speculation about a possible meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping because of the ongoing three-year standoff at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Diplomatic talks have been ongoing, and such a meeting could be crucial for resolving the standoff.

3. Has there been any official confirmation of a meeting between Modi and Xi?

As of now, there has been no official confirmation of a meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping. The Foreign Secretary mentioned that Modi’s itinerary was still being developed, leaving room for the possibility of a scheduled bilateral meeting.

4. What are the potential outcomes of a meeting between Modi and Xi?

A meeting between Modi and Xi could address the LAC standoff and other diplomatic issues. It could also have implications for the G-20 Joint Declaration statement, which China and Russia are currently blocking, and is set to be released at the upcoming G-20 summit.

5. What other events are part of the BRICS summit agenda?

The BRICS summit agenda includes various events, such as a Leaders’ Retreat, a day-long summit with other BRICS leaders, and BRICS-Africa outreach meetings. These events provide opportunities for diplomatic discussions and collaboration among the member nations.

In summary, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to South Africa for the BRICS summit is significant, and the possibility of a meeting with President Xi Jinping has generated considerable interest due to its potential impact on resolving the LAC standoff and addressing other diplomatic issues.