In response to a claim made by the spokesperson for China's foreign ministry that Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India had requested that President Xi Jinping of that nation speak with him, Indian official sources have clarified that it was China that had made the request.

PM Modi, Xi Jinping address military de-escalation; leaders stress on need to improve ties | WION

<p>The Indian government has dismissed China's claim that the request for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping came from New Delhi. Speaking to WION, sources said on Friday (August 25) there was a pending request from China for a bilateral meeting, adding, that Modi and Xi had an informal conversation at the leaders lounge on the sidelines of the BRICS summit.</p>

<p>Relations between India and China have been sour for over three years after soldiers&nbsp;from both sides clashed in the Himalayan frontier in June 2020,&nbsp;resulting in 24 deaths.</p>

<p>The dismissal from the Indian side came after Modi and Xi had a similar interaction during the G20 summit in Indonesia's Bali in November last year. According to an official statement, the two leaders had reached an important consensus to stabilise relations between the two countries. Here too, China said the meeting was requested by India but New Delhi denied the claim.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi highlights concerns with Xi on border issue</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said that Prime Minister Modi highlighted concerns with Chinese President Xi on border issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).&nbsp;Modi&nbsp;and Xi agreed "to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation,"&nbsp;Foreign Secretary Kwatra said.</p>

<p>Modi "underlined that the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas, and observing and respecting the LAC are essential for the normalisation of the India-China relationship".</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a report by the Xinhua news agency said Xi told Modi that improving relations China-India relations served the interests of both countries and was conducive to peace, stability and development.</p>

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The Indian government has dismissed China's claim that the request for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping came from New Delhi.

The Indian government has dismissed China's claim that the request for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping came from New Delhi. Speaking to WION, sources said on Friday (August 25) there was a pending request from China for a bilateral meeting, adding, that Modi and Xi had an informal conversation at the leaders lounge on the sidelines of the BRICS summit. Relations between India and China have been sour for over three years after soldiers from both sides clashed in the Himalayan frontier in June 2020, resulting in 24 deaths. The dismissal from the Indian side came after Modi and Xi had a similar interaction during the G20 summit in Indonesia's Bali in November last year. According to an official statement, the two leaders had reached an important consensus to stabilise relations between the two countries. Here too, China said the meeting was requested by India but New Delhi denied the claim. Modi highlights concerns with Xi on border issue Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said that Prime Minister Modi highlighted concerns with Chinese President Xi on border issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Modi and Xi agreed "to direct their relevant officials to intensify efforts at expeditious disengagement and de-escalation," Foreign Secretary Kwatra said. Modi "underlined that the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the border areas, and observing and respecting the LAC are essential for the normalisation of the India-China relationship". Meanwhile, a report by the Xinhua news agency said Xi told Modi that improving relations China-India relations served the interests of both countries and was conducive to peace, stability and development. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BRICS summit: India dismisses China's claim that New Delhi made a request for Modi-Xi meet

<p>Moments before the BRICS plenary session began in Johannesburg on Wednesday (August 23), security guards of Chinese President Xi Jinping were reportedly blocked from entering the main venue.</p>

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<p dir="ltr">In a video going viral on social media, it is shown that as Xi Jinping was walking towards the main venue, a man, believed to be a Chinese security official, began sprinting in an effort to catch up to the president.&nbsp;And as he appeared in close proximity to Xi, South African security officials blocked him from further entering as his movements raised suspicion.&nbsp;</p>

<p dir="ltr">What followed was utter chaos as Xi was repeatedly looking&nbsp;behind in order to understand what had unfolded.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At BRICS summit, South African security officers stop Chinese President Xi Jinping's officials who were trying to make their in. Literally had to close the doors prompting the Chinese President to look back several times. <a href="https://t.co/EHhsd6IKEH">pic.twitter.com/EHhsd6IKEH</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1694315234322964628?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Though it is currently unknown what caused the confusion, some reports have suggested that the security official was in fact the official translator of President Xi.</p>

<p dir="ltr">This is the second time that something unusual has transpired surrounding Xi Jinping ever since he set foot in the South African capital to attend the 15th BRICS Summit.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-is-xi-jinping-chinese-leaders-unusual-absence-at-brics-business-forum-raises-eyebrows-628067">Where is Xi Jinping?&nbsp;Chinese leader's unusual absence&nbsp;at BRICS Business Forum raises eyebrows</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">On Tuesday, Xi had to skip the BRICS Business Forum meeting, and it was attended by Chinese Commerce Minister Whang Wentao.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-conflict-strengthening-mulilateralism-figure-prominently-at-brics-meet-628384">Russia-Ukraine conflict, strengthening multilateralism figure prominently at BRICS meet</a></p>

<p dir="ltr">It was unknown why he had to skip the meeting, but he was later seen attending a dinner hosted by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, along with the leaders of Brazil and India, and Russia’s foreign minister.</p>

<p dir="ltr">So far, no reason has been provided for Xi’s absence, and the stoic silence from the officials has left much room for speculation.</p>

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Moments before the BRICS plenary session began in Johannesburg on Wednesday (August 23), security guards of Chinese President Xi Jinping were reportedly blocked from entering the main venue.

Moments before the BRICS plenary session began in Johannesburg on Wednesday (August 23), security guards of Chinese President Xi Jinping were reportedly blocked from entering the main venue. In a video going viral on social media, it is shown that as Xi Jinping was walking towards the main venue, a man, believed to be a Chinese security official, began sprinting in an effort to catch up to the president. And as he appeared in close proximity to Xi, South African security officials blocked him from further entering as his movements raised suspicion. What followed was utter chaos as Xi was repeatedly looking behind in order to understand what had unfolded. At BRICS summit, South African security officers stop Chinese President Xi Jinping's officials who were trying to make their in. Literally had to close the doors prompting the Chinese President to look back several times. pic.twitter.com/EHhsd6IKEH — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 23, 2023 × Though it is currently unknown what caused the confusion, some reports have suggested that the security official was in fact the official translator of President Xi. This is the second time that something unusual has transpired surrounding Xi Jinping ever since he set foot in the South African capital to attend the 15th BRICS Summit. Also read | Where is Xi Jinping? Chinese leader's unusual absence at BRICS Business Forum raises eyebrows On Tuesday, Xi had to skip the BRICS Business Forum meeting, and it was attended by Chinese Commerce Minister Whang Wentao. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict, strengthening multilateralism figure prominently at BRICS meet It was unknown why he had to skip the meeting, but he was later seen attending a dinner hosted by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, along with the leaders of Brazil and India, and Russia’s foreign minister. So far, no reason has been provided for Xi’s absence, and the stoic silence from the officials has left much room for speculation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch: Chinese President Xi Jinping’s aide stopped from entering BRICS venue 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with Xi Jinping on the sidelines of BRICS. The two leaders agreed to direct officials to expedite the de-escalation process.

BRICS: PM Modi, Xi Jinping address military de-escalation; Will border tensions finally diffuse?

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen engaging in a brief conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday (August 24).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video posted by news agency ANI, the Indian prime minister is seen walking a little ahead of the Chinese president and slowly speaking to him as the two leaders are headed for the media briefing by BRICS leaders.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping engage in a brief interaction at the 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg <a href="https://t.co/1yE3jstVfx">pic.twitter.com/1yE3jstVfx</a></p>
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<p>PM Modi and Jinping attended the plenary session together on Wednesday but stood apart in the photograph session.</p>

<p>Last November, the prime minister shook hands with the Chinese president and briefly interacted with him at the formal dinner for G20 leaders in Bali which marked their first face-to-face meeting in public after the military standoff in Ladakh in 2020.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-officials-expands-as-ramaphosa-announces-six-new-members-628689">BRICS officially expands: Six new members to join bloc next year</a></p>

<p>The relations between the two nations have been strained since the armies of India and China clashed in the Galwan Valley in June 2020. In order to resolve the situation, both countries have till now held 19 rounds of military-level talks.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi welcomes expansion of BRICS</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi, earlier in the day, welcomed the expansion of BRICS with which other nations were added to the group — Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India has always supported the expansion of BRICS. India has always believed that adding new members will strengthen BRICS as an organisation,”&nbsp;said Modi, while speaking at a press briefing of BRICS leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the second day, at the open plenary session of the BRICS Summit 2022, the prime minister said that India, under its G20 presidency, gave a lot of importance to the countries of the Global South and appreciated South Africa for chairing the BRICS summit.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;BRICS Summit: Major announcement on expansion expected</strong></p>

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<p>"We welcome the move to give special importance to the countries of the Global South in BRICS under the chairmanship of South Africa. This is not just the aspiration, but also the need of the present times. India has also given importance to this subject under its G20 presidency. One Earth One Family One Future — we are trying to move forward with all countries on this mantra. In the Voice of Global South summit in January this year, 125 countries participated and shared their concerns and priorities," he stated.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen engaging in a brief conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday (August 24).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was seen engaging in a brief conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg on Thursday (August 24). In the video posted by news agency ANI, the Indian prime minister is seen walking a little ahead of the Chinese president and slowly speaking to him as the two leaders are headed for the media briefing by BRICS leaders. #WATCH | PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping engage in a brief interaction at the 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg pic.twitter.com/1yE3jstVfx — ANI (@ANI) August 24, 2023 × PM Modi and Jinping attended the plenary session together on Wednesday but stood apart in the photograph session. Last November, the prime minister shook hands with the Chinese president and briefly interacted with him at the formal dinner for G20 leaders in Bali which marked their first face-to-face meeting in public after the military standoff in Ladakh in 2020. ALSO READ | BRICS officially expands: Six new members to join bloc next year The relations between the two nations have been strained since the armies of India and China clashed in the Galwan Valley in June 2020. In order to resolve the situation, both countries have till now held 19 rounds of military-level talks. PM Modi welcomes expansion of BRICS Prime Minister Modi, earlier in the day, welcomed the expansion of BRICS with which other nations were added to the group — Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). “India has always supported the expansion of BRICS. India has always believed that adding new members will strengthen BRICS as an organisation,” said Modi, while speaking at a press briefing of BRICS leaders. On the second day, at the open plenary session of the BRICS Summit 2022, the prime minister said that India, under its G20 presidency, gave a lot of importance to the countries of the Global South and appreciated South Africa for chairing the BRICS summit. WATCH | BRICS Summit: Major announcement on expansion expected "We welcome the move to give special importance to the countries of the Global South in BRICS under the chairmanship of South Africa. This is not just the aspiration, but also the need of the present times. India has also given importance to this subject under its G20 presidency. One Earth One Family One Future — we are trying to move forward with all countries on this mantra. In the Voice of Global South summit in January this year, 125 countries participated and shared their concerns and priorities," he stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | India's PM Modi engages in brief interaction with China's Xi Jinping at BRICS Summit

<p>United States President Joe Biden along with several other world leaders will be visiting India to attend the G20 Summit in the second week of September. India's national capital will host the main event on September 9-10 which will be attended by around 29 heads of states along with European Union's top officials, 14 heads of international organisations and guest countries. &nbsp;The officials have earmarked many hotels in the Delhi-NCR for attendees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per reports, the officials have booked rooms in leading hotels of New Delhi including ITC Maurya, Taj Palace, The Oberoi, The Lodhi, The Imperial and Le Meridien.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ITC Maurya has booked 400 rooms for hosting President Biden and his entourage, Indian media outlets reported. Previously, the hotel has hosted world leaders like US Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and other heads of state. The US Secret Service is inspecting the hotel premises ahead of the arrival of the POTUS.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-biden-to-visit-india-in-september-for-g20-summit-confirms-white-house-628090">President Biden to visit India in September for G20 summit, confirms White House</a></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to stay in Delhi's Taj Hotel while Hotel Shangri-La is prepping to host UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak along with officials from Germany. French President Emmanuel Macron, along with the officials accompanying him, will be staying at The Claridges while Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will be hosted by the Imperial Hotel in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Schools, colleges, offices and commercial establishments to remain closed&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a proposal for closing down the commercial establishments and offices in the Union Territory was approved by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. As per reports, all Delhi government and private offices will remain closed from September 8-10 while commercial establishments and banks, including markets in the New Delhi district, will be closed during these three days. All the colleges and schools will also remain closed during this time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We kindly request the esteemed authority to consider declaring a public holiday in Delhi from September 8 to 10 and ordering commercial and business establishments to remain closed in the indicated 'controlled zone' for the overall success of the summit," said Special Police Commissioner Madhup Tiwari, in a letter written to the chief secretary on August 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: ‘Beyond imagination’: PM Modi lauds Digital India programme at G20 meet</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, the Delhi Police earlier said that they are fully prepared for the G20 summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Delhi Police has been working for G20 for several months. The initial planning in connection with this started long back and now it is in the last phase as less than a month is left. We are prepared and are coordinating with other security agencies," said Delhi Police spokesperson Suman Nalwa.&nbsp;</p>

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United States President Joe Biden along with several other world leaders will be visiting India to attend the G20 Summit in the second week of September. India's national capital will host the main event on September 9-10 which will be attended by around 29 heads of states along with European Union's top officials, 14 heads of international organisations and guest countries.

United States President Joe Biden along with several other world leaders will be visiting India to attend the G20 Summit in the second week of September. India's national capital will host the main event on September 9-10 which will be attended by around 29 heads of states along with European Union's top officials, 14 heads of international organisations and guest countries. The officials have earmarked many hotels in the Delhi-NCR for attendees. As per reports, the officials have booked rooms in leading hotels of New Delhi including ITC Maurya, Taj Palace, The Oberoi, The Lodhi, The Imperial and Le Meridien. ITC Maurya has booked 400 rooms for hosting President Biden and his entourage, Indian media outlets reported. Previously, the hotel has hosted world leaders like US Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and other heads of state. The US Secret Service is inspecting the hotel premises ahead of the arrival of the POTUS. ALSO READ | President Biden to visit India in September for G20 summit, confirms White House Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to stay in Delhi's Taj Hotel while Hotel Shangri-La is prepping to host UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak along with officials from Germany. French President Emmanuel Macron, along with the officials accompanying him, will be staying at The Claridges while Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will be hosted by the Imperial Hotel in Delhi. Schools, colleges, offices and commercial establishments to remain closed Meanwhile, a proposal for closing down the commercial establishments and offices in the Union Territory was approved by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. As per reports, all Delhi government and private offices will remain closed from September 8-10 while commercial establishments and banks, including markets in the New Delhi district, will be closed during these three days. All the colleges and schools will also remain closed during this time. “We kindly request the esteemed authority to consider declaring a public holiday in Delhi from September 8 to 10 and ordering commercial and business establishments to remain closed in the indicated 'controlled zone' for the overall success of the summit," said Special Police Commissioner Madhup Tiwari, in a letter written to the chief secretary on August 18. WATCH | India: ‘Beyond imagination’: PM Modi lauds Digital India programme at G20 meet Meanwhile, the Delhi Police earlier said that they are fully prepared for the G20 summit. "Delhi Police has been working for G20 for several months. The initial planning in connection with this started long back and now it is in the last phase as less than a month is left. We are prepared and are coordinating with other security agencies," said Delhi Police spokesperson Suman Nalwa. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India prepares for G20: ITC Maurya books 400 rooms for President Biden, Taj Hotel to host China's Xi Jinping

Is China exploiting BRICS and turning it into a propaganda vehicle? President Xi Jinping has turned his visit to South Africa, for the BRICS summit, into a wider state visit. The agenda on the table are many. China has larger interests in Africa, plus it wants to expand BRICS - a grouping of 5 nations, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. By adding more members, Beijing wants to bolster its image as a global leader. Molly Gambhir brings you the story.

Gravitas: Xi's Power Play; China Turns BRICS Into Propaganda Platform? Bigger Agenda to Woo Africa?

<p>The BRICS Business Forum kicked off in South Africa’s Johannesburg on Tuesday (Aug 22) to discuss a wide range of economic issues, including the current state of cooperation in trade and investment, strengthening ties, and removing bottlenecks among the member countries.</p>

<p>Among the leaders who were present in the forum were Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Brazilian President Lula da Silva. But someone was missing.</p>

<h2><strong>Putin addresses event virtually</strong></h2>

<p>While Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the event virtually, there was one leader whose absence was conspicuous, given that he was one of the earliest to arrive at the South African city for the summit. That was Chinese President Xi Jinping.</p>

<p>After Ramaphosa, Lula and Modi addressed the forum, Chinese Commerce Minister Whang Wentao delivered a statement on behalf of Xi Jinping.</p>

<p>In the brief speech, Wentao denounced “countries obsessed with maintaining hegemony” for sabotaging the growth of developing nations, an effort he said is “futile”.</p>

<p>Quoting Xi, Wentao called for an end to one-dimensional views of states that divide them into artificial categories like “liberal” or “authoritarian”.</p>

<p>Though it was known that Putin won’t be coming to South Africa due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court over war crimes in Ukraine, it was surprising that Xi did not turn up for the event.</p>

<p>So far, no reason has been provided for Xi’s absence, and the stoic silence from the officials has left much room for speculation.</p>

<h2><strong>Xi met&nbsp;Ramaphosa</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, Xi met with Ramaphosa ahead of the summit on just his second international trip of the year.</p>

<p>"Now as friends and&nbsp;BRICS&nbsp;partners, we stand together in our shared objective and quest for a better and more egalitarian world that frees the potential of all the people in the world," said Ramaphosa in Pretoria at the opening of Xi's state visit.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/modi-aims-at-expansion-of-indias-upi-to-brics-nations-at-business-forum-meet-628060">Modi aims at expansion of India's UPI to BRICS nations at business forum meet</a></p>

<p>"Today, standing at a new historical starting point, inheriting friendship, deepening cooperation, and strengthening coordination are the common aspirations of the two countries, and are also the important tasks entrusted to us by the times," said Xi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-2023-putin-hails-de-dollarisation-lula-vows-to-fight-global-colonialism-628065">BRICS 2023: Putin hails de-dollarisation, Lula vows to fight global colonialism</a></p>

<p>Ahead of this summit, at least 40 countries have expressed interest in joining including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh and Argentina, officials say.</p>

<p>South Africa will present&nbsp;BRICS&nbsp;leaders with a proposal to expand its membership and a decision on the matter is expected at the summit's close.</p>

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The BRICS Business Forum kicked off in South Africa’s Johannesburg on Tuesday (Aug 22) to discuss a wide range of economic issues, including the current state of cooperation in trade and investment, strengthening ties, and removing bottlenecks among the member countries.

The BRICS Business Forum kicked off in South Africa’s Johannesburg on Tuesday (Aug 22) to discuss a wide range of economic issues, including the current state of cooperation in trade and investment, strengthening ties, and removing bottlenecks among the member countries. Among the leaders who were present in the forum were Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Brazilian President Lula da Silva. But someone was missing. Putin addresses event virtually While Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the event virtually, there was one leader whose absence was conspicuous, given that he was one of the earliest to arrive at the South African city for the summit. That was Chinese President Xi Jinping. After Ramaphosa, Lula and Modi addressed the forum, Chinese Commerce Minister Whang Wentao delivered a statement on behalf of Xi Jinping. In the brief speech, Wentao denounced “countries obsessed with maintaining hegemony” for sabotaging the growth of developing nations, an effort he said is “futile”. Quoting Xi, Wentao called for an end to one-dimensional views of states that divide them into artificial categories like “liberal” or “authoritarian”. Though it was known that Putin won’t be coming to South Africa due to an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court over war crimes in Ukraine, it was surprising that Xi did not turn up for the event. So far, no reason has been provided for Xi’s absence, and the stoic silence from the officials has left much room for speculation. Xi met Ramaphosa Earlier in the day, Xi met with Ramaphosa ahead of the summit on just his second international trip of the year. "Now as friends and BRICS partners, we stand together in our shared objective and quest for a better and more egalitarian world that frees the potential of all the people in the world," said Ramaphosa in Pretoria at the opening of Xi's state visit. Also read | Modi aims at expansion of India's UPI to BRICS nations at business forum meet "Today, standing at a new historical starting point, inheriting friendship, deepening cooperation, and strengthening coordination are the common aspirations of the two countries, and are also the important tasks entrusted to us by the times," said Xi. Also read | BRICS 2023: Putin hails de-dollarisation, Lula vows to fight global colonialism Ahead of this summit, at least 40 countries have expressed interest in joining including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh and Argentina, officials say. South Africa will present BRICS leaders with a proposal to expand its membership and a decision on the matter is expected at the summit's close. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Where is Xi Jinping? Chinese leader's unusual absence at BRICS Business Forum raises eyebrows

India China and Russia Brazil and South Africa created the BRICS, one of the world's most important economic blocs. The summit is taking place in Johannesburg, South Africa. South Africa's President Ramaphosa honoured Xi Jinping with South Africa's highest honour 'Order of South Africa'.

BRICS Summit 2023 LIVE: Ramaphosa honours China's Xi Jinping with South Africa's highest honour

The 15th BRICS Summit has kickstarted. Leaders are reachingn Johannesburg. The 15th BRICS Summit is being hosted by South Africa. The eyes, however, will be on two major global powers India & China. As PM Modi and Xi Jinping are likely to meet face-to-face.

BRICS Summit 2023: How are relations between India & China as members of the bloc?

Chinese Ambassador to South Africa has hinted that Indian PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will hold bilateral talks on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit. Their potential meeting would be the first formal meeting since the border clashes in May 2020. It also comes in the backdrop Chinese efforts to expand BRICS grouping. A move that has been resisted by members like India and Brazil. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas | BRICS Summit: PM Modi To Meet Xi Jinping? India, China Border Breakthrough Possible?

India China and Russia Brazil and South Africa created the BRICS, one of the world's most important economic blocs. The Summit will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa, and will be attended by heads of state and government seeking to strengthen their influence and encourage a shift in global geopolitics.

BRICS summit in Johannesburg: Meet between PM Modi and Xi on cards? | World News | WION

BRICS Summit 2023: Chinese President's second overseas visit of 2023

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2023-pm-modi-departs-for-south-africa-xi-reaches-johannesburg-627730">BRICS group</a> will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg between August 22 and August 24. Leaders of member nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are gathering in South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are speculations that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping will hold a bilateral meeting. While there are reports about the same doing the rounds, there's no official confirmation yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the first in-person BRICS summit after 2019 as in the last three years, the summits were held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While departing for the South African city, PM Modi said that he values that BRICS has become a platform for discussing and deliberating on issues of concern for the entire Global South, including development imperatives and reform of the multilateral system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that the summit will provide an opportunity for BRICS to identify future areas of cooperation and review institutional development.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-departs-for-johannesburg-south-africa-to-attend-15th-brics-summit-627706">PM Modi departs for South Africa to attend 15th BRICS Summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>But will he meet Xi? Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra was also asked about the same and he replied that it is "still being developed".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have a positive intent and an open mind when it comes to BRICS expansion," Kwatra said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be PM Modi and Xi's first meeting since the India-China border crisis started in May 2020 if the bilateral meeting happens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last November, at the G20 dinner in Bali that was hosted by Indonesian President Joko Widodo, the two leaders had a fleeting encounter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: At least 40 nations have shown interest in becoming BRICS members&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Inclusion of new members</strong></h2>

<p>The foreign secretary said the modalities for the inclusion of new members into the BRICS are being discussed among the Sherpas of the grouping. "I would not want to prejudge the outcome of the discussions," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kwatra said there is considerable interest in joining the grouping by various countries. Twenty-three countries have submitted their applications to join the BRICS and Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Argentina have emerged as strong contenders for the grouping's membership.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The BRICS group will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg between August 22 and August 24. Leaders of member nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are gathering in South Africa.

The BRICS group will hold its 15th heads of state and government summit in Johannesburg between August 22 and August 24. Leaders of member nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are gathering in South Africa. There are speculations that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese leader Xi Jinping will hold a bilateral meeting. While there are reports about the same doing the rounds, there's no official confirmation yet. This is the first in-person BRICS summit after 2019 as in the last three years, the summits were held virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic. While departing for the South African city, PM Modi said that he values that BRICS has become a platform for discussing and deliberating on issues of concern for the entire Global South, including development imperatives and reform of the multilateral system. He added that the summit will provide an opportunity for BRICS to identify future areas of cooperation and review institutional development. Also read: PM Modi departs for South Africa to attend 15th BRICS Summit But will he meet Xi? Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra was also asked about the same and he replied that it is "still being developed". "We have a positive intent and an open mind when it comes to BRICS expansion," Kwatra said. It will be PM Modi and Xi's first meeting since the India-China border crisis started in May 2020 if the bilateral meeting happens. Last November, at the G20 dinner in Bali that was hosted by Indonesian President Joko Widodo, the two leaders had a fleeting encounter. Watch: At least 40 nations have shown interest in becoming BRICS members × Inclusion of new members The foreign secretary said the modalities for the inclusion of new members into the BRICS are being discussed among the Sherpas of the grouping. "I would not want to prejudge the outcome of the discussions," he said. Kwatra said there is considerable interest in joining the grouping by various countries. Twenty-three countries have submitted their applications to join the BRICS and Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Argentina have emerged as strong contenders for the grouping's membership. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BRICS Summit 2023: Will PM Modi and Xi Jinping hold bilateral meeting?

India's prime minister Narendra Modi will depart for the 15th BRICS summit tomorrow morning. The meet in south Africa's Johannesburg will seek to widen the blocs influence and push for a shift in global geopolitics. The question is: will there be a bilateral with the Chinese premier XI Jinping? The India-China border stand-off has impacted bilateral ties, with minimal diplomatic engagement between the two countries over the last three years. All eyes will be on that one-on-one.

PM Modi to leave for BRICS summit, bilateral with Xi Jinping expected

The high-voltage Malabar exercises featuring the navies of all four quad countries - United States, India, Australia and Japan conclude conclude today. The quad drills previously held in the India Ocean were held in Australia for the first time.

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<p>Amid extended border tensions between the two countries, Beijing on Saturday hinted that&nbsp;President Xi Jinping may hold a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi when they attend the BRICS leaders’ summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Bloomberg reported.</p>

<p>China’s ambassador to South Africa Chen Xiaodong hinted about the meeting during a briefing with the reporters in Pretoria.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I am confident that as two nations, two countries, we will have direct talks, direct meetings," said&nbsp;Chen, adding,&nbsp;“I cannot say there is tension between us, but as neighbouring countries we have many common interests at the same time we have some problems."</p>

<p>While Xi will be in the African nation from August 21 to 24, PM Modi will reach Johannesburg in the afternoon of August 22. Currently, there is no official confirmation of a scheduled bilateral meeting but since the two leaders will be at the same venue, a possible meeting can't be ruled out.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the meeting goes ahead, which remains a big 'if', it will be the first instance since May 2020 when the border standoff between the two nations reached its peak. The last time the two leaders had a brief encounter was at dinner in Bali, Indonesia, during the G20 Summit in November 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-to-skip-brics-summit-in-south-africa-617528"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russian President Putin to skip BRICS Summit in South Africa</strong></a></p>

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<p>The insistence of the Chinese side to meet PM Modi could also be ascertained from the fact that Beijing seemingly took a soft line during the latest round of border talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, during the&nbsp;Major General level talks held on Saturday (August 19), both sides discussed&nbsp;ensuring that no new posts are constructed in close proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The two sides agreed on identifying specific limits for patrolling as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Often, such border talks have yielded no significant results with China&nbsp;opting for a stubborn stance, but Saturday's discussions were one of the few occasions when Beijing implied at mending the border situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-key-facts-about-the-brics-2023-summit-626490"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Explained | Key facts about the upcoming BRICS 2023 Summit at Johannesburg</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>China may want to curry favour&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>One of the burning issues in the lead-up to the summit has been the expansion of the grouping. China, looking to utilise the forum as a way to boost its geopolitical might against the US has been the primary force, batting for the expansion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Russia is on-board with the decision, as is South Africa, Indian remains undecided and non-committal. If China is to have its way, it needs India on its side.</p>

<p>Responsible for nearly 40 per cent and 26 per cent of the global population and economy respectively, the forum members will gather from August 22-24 at the Sandton Convention Centre (SCC) in Johannesburg, Gauteng.</p>

<p>Apart from Xi and Modi,&nbsp;Brazil's President Luiz Lula da Silva,&nbsp;South African President Cyril Ramaphosa&nbsp;and Russian&nbsp;Foreign Minister&nbsp;Sergei Lavrov will attend the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Amid extended border tensions between the two countries, Beijing on Saturday hinted that President Xi Jinping may hold a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi when they attend the BRICS leaders’ summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Bloomberg reported.

Amid extended border tensions between the two countries, Beijing on Saturday hinted that President Xi Jinping may hold a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi when they attend the BRICS leaders’ summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Bloomberg reported. China’s ambassador to South Africa Chen Xiaodong hinted about the meeting during a briefing with the reporters in Pretoria. “I am confident that as two nations, two countries, we will have direct talks, direct meetings," said Chen, adding, “I cannot say there is tension between us, but as neighbouring countries we have many common interests at the same time we have some problems." While Xi will be in the African nation from August 21 to 24, PM Modi will reach Johannesburg in the afternoon of August 22. Currently, there is no official confirmation of a scheduled bilateral meeting but since the two leaders will be at the same venue, a possible meeting can't be ruled out. If the meeting goes ahead, which remains a big 'if', it will be the first instance since May 2020 when the border standoff between the two nations reached its peak. The last time the two leaders had a brief encounter was at dinner in Bali, Indonesia, during the G20 Summit in November 2022. Watch | Russian President Putin to skip BRICS Summit in South Africa × The insistence of the Chinese side to meet PM Modi could also be ascertained from the fact that Beijing seemingly took a soft line during the latest round of border talks. Notably, during the Major General level talks held on Saturday (August 19), both sides discussed ensuring that no new posts are constructed in close proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. The two sides agreed on identifying specific limits for patrolling as well. Often, such border talks have yielded no significant results with China opting for a stubborn stance, but Saturday's discussions were one of the few occasions when Beijing implied at mending the border situation. Also read | Explained | Key facts about the upcoming BRICS 2023 Summit at Johannesburg China may want to curry favour One of the burning issues in the lead-up to the summit has been the expansion of the grouping. China, looking to utilise the forum as a way to boost its geopolitical might against the US has been the primary force, batting for the expansion. While Russia is on-board with the decision, as is South Africa, Indian remains undecided and non-committal. If China is to have its way, it needs India on its side. Responsible for nearly 40 per cent and 26 per cent of the global population and economy respectively, the forum members will gather from August 22-24 at the Sandton Convention Centre (SCC) in Johannesburg, Gauteng. Apart from Xi and Modi, Brazil's President Luiz Lula da Silva, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will attend the meeting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Xi may hold bilateral meeting with Indian PM Modi at BRICS Summit

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<p>China is notorious for using its United Front army to exert influence across the world. Now, an investigation led by the&nbsp;<em>New York Times&nbsp;</em>has linked American billionaire Neville Roy Singham to Beijing as one of the biggest spreaders of Chinese propaganda in the US, India, and South Africa among many other countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The publication revealed that Singham is a supporter of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and is at the "heart" of the propaganda campaign, working closely with the Xi Jinping government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He [Neville] and his allies are on the front line of what Communist Party officials call a “smokeless war.”</p>

<p>Under the rule of Xi Jinping, China has expanded state media operations, teamed up with overseas outlets and cultivated foreign influencers. The goal is to disguise propaganda as independent content, the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NYT said it has tracked "hundreds of millions of dollars" to groups linked to Singham that mix "progressive advocacy with Chinese government talking points".</p>

<p>Neutral-sounding groups such as No Cold War and US antiwar group Code Pink that used to be critical of China had become Beijing apologists, the daily said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jodie Evans, the co-founder of Code Pink and wife of Singham described the Uyghurs as terrorists and defends their mass detention in inhumane concentration camps in the restive Xinjiang province.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have to do something,” she said in 2021.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-urges-his-united-front-army-to-step-up-its-operations-in-taiwan-hong-kong-and-overseas-countries-502429" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Xi urges his United Front army to step up operations in Taiwan, Hong Kong, other countries</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Singham's propaganda links to India</strong></h2>

<p>The report mentioned that in India, a news website called 'NewsClick' was also funded by Singham and parroted pro-China views when tensions between the two countries are at an all-time high due to Beijing's hostility on the border areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In New Delhi, corporate filings show, Mr Singham’s network financed a news site, NewsClick, that sprinkled its coverage with Chinese government talking points. 'China’s history continues to inspire the working classes,' one video said," the report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added Singham's groups produced propaganda YouTube videos that had been racking up millions of views. Additionally, the leaders in these groups influenced real-world politics by "meeting with congressional aides, training politicians in Africa, running candidates in South African elections and organising protests like the one in London that erupted into violence".&nbsp;</p>

<p>NYT said none of Singham's nonprofits have registered under the Foreign Agents Registration Act, as is required of groups that seek to influence public opinion on behalf of foreign powers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-bbc-arm-producing-ad-campaigns-for-china-545695"><strong>Watch | Gravitas: BBC arm producing ad campaigns for China?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Xi Jinping has been extremely vocal about expanding his country's strength through the foot soldiers spread across the globe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We must strengthen the building of overseas patriotic forces, cultivate and expand the strength of those who know China and are willing to befriend China, and promote exchanges and mutual learning of Chinese and foreign cultures and civilisations,” said Xi in a speech to the United Work Front Department last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past, the United Front has been described by Xi Jinping as his secret 'magic weapon'. The operations of most of the members of the United Front are covert and spread beyond the middle kingdom.</p>

<p>Despite Singham's insistence that he is not linked to the Chinese government in any shape or form, he was seen attending a CCP propaganda forum last month, with a notebook having a red hammer and sickle on it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China is notorious for using its United Front army to exert influence across the world. Now, an investigation led by the New York Times has linked American billionaire Neville Roy Singham to Beijing as one of the biggest spreaders of Chinese propaganda in the US, India, and South Africa among many other countries.

China is notorious for using its United Front army to exert influence across the world. Now, an investigation led by the New York Times has linked American billionaire Neville Roy Singham to Beijing as one of the biggest spreaders of Chinese propaganda in the US, India, and South Africa among many other countries. The publication revealed that Singham is a supporter of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and is at the "heart" of the propaganda campaign, working closely with the Xi Jinping government. "He [Neville] and his allies are on the front line of what Communist Party officials call a “smokeless war.” Under the rule of Xi Jinping, China has expanded state media operations, teamed up with overseas outlets and cultivated foreign influencers. The goal is to disguise propaganda as independent content, the report said. NYT said it has tracked "hundreds of millions of dollars" to groups linked to Singham that mix "progressive advocacy with Chinese government talking points". Neutral-sounding groups such as No Cold War and US antiwar group Code Pink that used to be critical of China had become Beijing apologists, the daily said. Jodie Evans, the co-founder of Code Pink and wife of Singham described the Uyghurs as terrorists and defends their mass detention in inhumane concentration camps in the restive Xinjiang province. “We have to do something,” she said in 2021. Also read | Xi urges his United Front army to step up operations in Taiwan, Hong Kong, other countries Singham's propaganda links to India The report mentioned that in India, a news website called 'NewsClick' was also funded by Singham and parroted pro-China views when tensions between the two countries are at an all-time high due to Beijing's hostility on the border areas. "In New Delhi, corporate filings show, Mr Singham’s network financed a news site, NewsClick, that sprinkled its coverage with Chinese government talking points. 'China’s history continues to inspire the working classes,' one video said," the report said. The report added Singham's groups produced propaganda YouTube videos that had been racking up millions of views. Additionally, the leaders in these groups influenced real-world politics by "meeting with congressional aides, training politicians in Africa, running candidates in South African elections and organising protests like the one in London that erupted into violence". NYT said none of Singham's nonprofits have registered under the Foreign Agents Registration Act, as is required of groups that seek to influence public opinion on behalf of foreign powers. Watch | Gravitas: BBC arm producing ad campaigns for China? × Xi Jinping has been extremely vocal about expanding his country's strength through the foot soldiers spread across the globe. "We must strengthen the building of overseas patriotic forces, cultivate and expand the strength of those who know China and are willing to befriend China, and promote exchanges and mutual learning of Chinese and foreign cultures and civilisations,” said Xi in a speech to the United Work Front Department last year. In the past, the United Front has been described by Xi Jinping as his secret 'magic weapon'. The operations of most of the members of the United Front are covert and spread beyond the middle kingdom. Despite Singham's insistence that he is not linked to the Chinese government in any shape or form, he was seen attending a CCP propaganda forum last month, with a notebook having a red hammer and sickle on it. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

American billionaire spreading Chinese propaganda in India and abroad: NYT

South Africa will be hosting the key summit later this month and the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the summit in-person in Johannesburg. The key focus on this summit becomes PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping's meeting.

BRICS Summit: Xi & Modi to meet, will the leaders break ice on border issue? | World News | WION

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Xi Jinping has unleashed another purge. This time, he has sacked China's top generals over corruption. These generals were in charge of China's nuclear weapons. Molly gambhir brings you a report.

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