BRICS Security Meet To Begin In Delhi: Russia, China And Iran Join Ajit Doval For Key Talks

New Delhi: An important two-day meeting of national security advisors and high representatives of BRICS countries is starting in New Delhi from Monday. It is being hosted by India and chaired by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. In the meeting, top security officials of the member countries will brainstorm on global and regional security challenges. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Russia's Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu and senior representatives of Iran's Supreme National Security Council are expected to attend. This meeting will prepare the ground for the proposed BRICS summit in September.

What is the main agenda of this meeting?

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the central theme of this year's meeting has been kept as "non-traditional security challenges facing today's world". The conference will have special discussions on cyber security, digital threats, secure use of information and communication technology and security risks associated with emerging technologies. Issues like data theft, ransomware and misuse of AI are also on the agenda.

Which big leaders will be involved?

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Russia's Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu and senior representatives of Iran's Supreme National Security Council are reaching Delhi. China has confirmed Wang Yi's visit to India. NSAs or their equivalent officials from Brazil, South Africa and other member countries will also participate in the meeting.

Will Ajit Doval and Wang Yi have a separate meeting?

According to sources, there may be a bilateral meeting between NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the BRICS conference. Talks are possible between the two leaders on border security, tension on LAC and regional issues. The issue of peace and restoration of status quo on the border can be raised from the Indian side.

What will be discussed on terrorism and regional security?

Issues like cross-border terrorism, terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, current situation in West Asia, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Pakistan-Afghanistan tension will figure prominently in the conference. India is preparing to adopt a tough stance against terrorism. There will be a demand from all countries to stop the support given to terrorist organisations.

Why has cybersecurity become a big concern?

The threats of cyber attacks, data theft and misuse of new technologies have increased in the digital world. BRICS countries will consider strengthening cyber cooperation. Security measures related to information and communication technology will be discussed in detail. Member countries can agree to share information on cyber attacks and joint exercises.

How will cooperation between BRICS countries be strengthened?

The delegates will review the recent meetings of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Joint Working Group and the Cyber  Security Working Group. This is expected to give a new direction to security cooperation and coordination among the member countries in the future. There can be agreement on sharing of intelligence and joint drills.

Will the differences of BRICS countries become a challenge?

In the last few years, differences have emerged between BRICS countries on West Asia and other international issues. The meeting of foreign ministers held in May also ended without a joint statement. In such a situation, this meeting in New Delhi is being considered as a test of the unity of the group. Bringing everyone on one platform is a big diplomatic challenge for India.

Why is this meeting important before the BRICS summit?

Experts believe that this conference will lay the foundation for the proposed BRICS summit to be held in September. The discussions and consensus reached here will play an important role in shaping the security agenda of the upcoming summit. The consensus reached on security will influence the entire BRICS agenda. What