Did PM Modi and President Ramaphosa Have a Productive Meeting?
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met during the BRICS summit, discussing vital reforms for the UN Security Council. Their second meeting in just weeks emphasizes a strong commitment to the Global South's interests and cooperative projects, showcasing the growing partnership between India and South Africa.
Key Takeaways
- PM Narendra Modi and President Cyril Ramaphosa met at the BRICS summit.
- Both leaders support reforms of the UN Security Council.
- India and South Africa aim to enhance their bilateral trade, which is nearing $20 billion.
- The two countries are collaborating on multiple strategic projects.
- This meeting was their second in under three weeks, emphasizing their robust partnership.
Rio de Janeiro, July 7 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a productive meeting with South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday during the BRICS summit, where Ramaphosa supported Modi’s push for reform of the United Nations Security Council.
“It was great to reconnect with my friend, President Ramaphosa of South Africa,” PM Modi shared on X following their discussion.
In his address at the summit, Ramaphosa expressed his backing for the reform agenda, stating that the Council has “become too rigid, too narrow, and too disconnected from today’s multipolar realities,” highlighting its inadequacy in addressing the challenges of international peace and security.
He emphasized that the Council is not equipped to respond to global threats, “from humanitarian crises to overt acts of aggression.”
“Reform is essential. The Security Council needs to be made more democratic, more representative of regions, and more accountable,” he declared.
Reform of the Council was a key point raised by PM Modi, who spoke prior to Ramaphosa at the summit.
This meeting marked the second encounter between PM Modi and Ramaphosa within just 19 days, following their previous meeting in Canada during the G7 Summit.
After their earlier meeting, Modi stated that he, along with Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, would remain “steadfast” in their commitment to the Global South’s interests.
At the BRICS summit, they intended to further this commitment.
India and South Africa are collaborating on numerous joint projects that enhance skills development, trade, economic cooperation, and technology.
They aim to strengthen their strategic partnership, focusing on sectors such as agro-processing, defense, mining, and finance.
The total bilateral trade has nearly reached $20 billion.
PM Modi visited South Africa earlier in 2023 for the BRICS summit and engaged in bilateral discussions with the leaders.
Ramaphosa was the guest of honor at the 2019 Republic Day celebrations, with his last visit to India being in 2023 for the G20 summit.
As a prominent African leader, South Africa stands alongside India as a voice for the Global South on international platforms.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significance of Modi and Ramaphosa's discussions. Their meetings signal a dedication to fostering a powerful alliance between India and South Africa, which can advocate for the Global South in international forums. This strategic partnership not only enhances bilateral trade but also strengthens their collective voice on pressing global issues.
NationPress
15/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of the meeting between PM Modi and President Ramaphosa?
The primary focus was on supporting necessary reforms to the United Nations Security Council to make it more democratic and regionally representative.
How often have PM Modi and President Ramaphosa met recently?
They have met twice in just 19 days, first at the G7 Summit in Canada and then during the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro.
What are the key areas of cooperation between India and South Africa?
Key areas include skills development, trade, economic cooperation, technology, agro-processing, defense, mining, and finance.
What is the current status of bilateral trade between India and South Africa?
Bilateral trade between the two nations has nearly reached $20 billion.
Why is the reform of the UN Security Council considered necessary?
Reform is deemed necessary to adapt to the changing global landscape and ensure that the council can effectively address current international challenges.
