India has defended its decision to skip last week’s BRICS naval exercises off the South African (SA) coast, amid questions over Iran’s involvement.
BRICS refers to Brazil, Russia, India, China, and SA.
The exercises, designed to boost maritime co-operation among member nations, went ahead without India and Brazil, two key participants. Some analysts suggest Iranian government’s presence may have influenced their decision, given the geopolitical sensitivities involved.
Indian officials, however, insist the absence was due to scheduling and logistical reasons, not political disagreements. Still, their non-participation has sparked discussion about how BRICS nations navigate strategic partnerships as the bloc expands its global reach.
–ChannelAfrica–
