On October 23, 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a meeting during the BRICS summit, following an agreement to patrol their disputed border. The two nations have faced tensions since a military standoff in 2020, which resulted in casualties. Modi emphasized the importance of mutual trust and respect in their bilateral relations.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that over 30 countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS, highlighting the bloc's growing significance. Putin asserted that the formation of a multipolar world order is underway, and discussions will also address regional conflicts, including those in the Middle East and Ukraine.
In Europe, the United Kingdom and Germany signed a defense pact aimed at enhancing military cooperation. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and his British counterpart John Healey described the agreement as a significant step towards increased security in Europe. The pact includes the operation of German P-8 Poseidon surveillance aircraft from Scotland and the establishment of a new artillery manufacturing plant in the UK by Rheinmetall, creating 400 jobs.
Additionally, the BRICS group released a joint statement condemning conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa, expressing concern over the impact of sanctions on the global economy. The alliance called for a more active role for emerging economies in international governance and invited 13 countries to join as partner states.
Addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, participating via video conference, condemned the violence and called for peace negotiations regarding the war in Ukraine. He emphasized the need for a multipolar financial system and alternative payment mechanisms to reduce reliance on the dollar.