‘South Africa-led initiative, not institutionalised activity’: MEA clarifies why India skipped BRICS Naval Exercise
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Source: CNBC TV18 | Original Published At: 2026-01-17 11:13:33 UTC
Key Points
- India did not participate in the BRICS Naval Exercise, stating it was a South Africa-led initiative not recognized as a formal BRICS activity.
- MEA spokesperson clarified the exercise lacked full BRICS member inclusion and institutionalization.
- India emphasized its participation in the trilateral IBSAMAR maritime exercise with Brazil and South Africa instead.
- China, Russia, and South Africa participated in the naval drills under the theme 'Joint Actions to Ensure the Safety of Key Shipping Lanes.'
- Geopolitical analyst suggests India's decision reflects balancing ties with the US amid BRICS military cooperation.