Russia India China Ric Trilateral Meeting

A special meeting of the Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral group was convened to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II and the founding of the United Nations. Proposed by Russia in 1998, the RIC grouping serves as a potential counterbalance to Western alliances, emphasizing cooperation on global issues such as UN reforms, counter-terrorism, and preventing an arms race in outer space.

The RIC countries collectively occupy over 19% of the world's landmass and contribute to over 33% of the global GDP. This trilateral is central to both the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS. For India, RIC reflects its growing geostrategic importance, alongside other groupings like Japan-USA-India (JAI) and the QUAD. RIC provides a platform for India to discuss areas of cooperation and address differences on issues such as Afghanistan, West Asia, and Iran sanctions, with the broader aim of shaping a new global economic structure.

The Russia-India-China Trilateral: A Cornerstone of Multipolarity

The Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral, brought into sharper focus by its recent meeting commemorating the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II and the founding of the United Nations, represents a critical, albeit complex, dynamic in contemporary international relations. This trilateral, conceived in the late 1990s, embodies the aspirations of its member states to forge a multipolar world order, one that moves beyond the perceived dominance of Western powers and offers alternative frameworks for global governance, economic cooperation, and security architecture. Understanding the RIC dynamic requires a deep dive into its historical roots, the motivations of each member state, the areas of convergence and divergence, and its implications for the broader geopolitical landscape.

Genesis and Evolution of the RIC Trilateral

The idea of a strategic partnership between Russia, India, and China was first floated by the then-Russian Prime Minister Yevgeny Primakov in 1998. This initiative emerged in the aftermath of the Cold War, a period marked by the consolidation of American hegemony and the perceived marginalization of other major powers. Primakov, a staunch advocate of multipolarity, envisioned RIC as a means to counterbalance the United States' unipolar moment and promote a more equitable distribution of power in the international system.

Several factors contributed to the initial appeal of the RIC concept. First, all three countries shared a degree of dissatisfaction with the existing global order, which they viewed as being heavily skewed in favor of the West. Russia, reeling from the collapse of the Soviet Union and facing economic hardship and political instability, sought to reassert its great power status and challenge the U.S.-led international system. India, emerging as a major economic power and aspiring to a greater role in global affairs, sought to diversify its strategic partnerships and pursue an independent foreign policy. China, undergoing rapid economic growth and increasingly confident in its ability to shape the international environment, saw RIC as a means to advance its own interests and promote a more multipolar world order.

Second, the three countries shared certain common interests, including a desire to promote multilateralism, strengthen the role of the United Nations, and address global challenges such as terrorism, climate change, and pandemics. They also shared a commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty, non-interference, and peaceful resolution of disputes, which contrasted with what they perceived as the West's interventionist policies.

Third, the three countries had a history of cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Russia had long been a major supplier of military equipment to both India and China, while India and China had a burgeoning economic relationship. These existing ties provided a foundation for building a more comprehensive strategic partnership.

The RIC trilateral has evolved significantly since its inception. Initially, the focus was primarily on political and strategic issues, with the three countries coordinating their positions on various international issues and conducting joint military exercises. Over time, the scope of cooperation has expanded to include economic, cultural, and technological fields. The RIC framework has also served as a platform for dialogue and coordination on regional issues, such as Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

The Strategic Significance of RIC

The strategic significance of the RIC trilateral lies in its potential to reshape the global balance of power and promote a more multipolar world order. Together, Russia, India, and China represent a formidable economic and military force, accounting for a significant share of the world's population, GDP, and military spending. Their combined influence gives them the potential to challenge the dominance of the United States and other Western powers in various areas, including trade, finance, and security.

From a geopolitical perspective, RIC represents a counterweight to the U.S.-led alliance system in the Indo-Pacific region. While India is also a member of the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) with the United States, Japan, and Australia, which is often seen as a grouping aimed at containing China, its participation in RIC demonstrates its commitment to a multi-aligned foreign policy and its desire to maintain strategic autonomy.

Furthermore, RIC provides a platform for Russia, India, and China to coordinate their policies on various global issues and promote their shared interests. For example, all three countries have been critical of U.S. unilateralism and have called for a greater role for the United Nations in addressing global challenges. They have also been strong supporters of multilateral institutions such as the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Paris Agreement on climate change.

The RIC trilateral also has significant implications for regional security. All three countries share concerns about terrorism, extremism, and instability in Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the Middle East. They have been working together to promote peace and stability in these regions through various initiatives, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Individual Motivations and Interests of Member States

While the RIC trilateral is based on shared interests and goals, each member state has its own unique motivations and priorities. Understanding these individual perspectives is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of the grouping and its potential for future development.

• Russia: For Russia, RIC is an important tool for reasserting its great power status and challenging the U.S.-led international system. Russia sees itself as a key player in a multipolar world order and views RIC as a means to counterbalance Western influence and promote its own interests. Russia also values RIC as a platform for strengthening its economic and strategic ties with India and China, both of which are major partners in its "pivot to Asia" strategy. Furthermore, Russia seeks to use RIC to promote its vision of regional security in Eurasia, particularly through the SCO.

• India: India views RIC as a valuable platform for promoting its own strategic interests and enhancing its role in global affairs. India's participation in RIC reflects its commitment to a multi-aligned foreign policy, which seeks to balance its relations with different powers and maintain its strategic autonomy. India also values RIC as a forum for engaging with Russia and China on issues of mutual concern, such as terrorism, climate change, and regional security. Moreover, India sees RIC as a means to promote its economic interests, particularly through increased trade and investment with Russia and China. India's engagement with RIC should be seen alongside its participation in other groupings like the Quad, the JAI trilateral (Japan-America-India), and its deepening ties with countries like France and the UK. This reflects India's strategy of hedging its bets and ensuring it has multiple avenues for pursuing its foreign policy objectives.

• China: China sees RIC as a means to advance its own interests and promote a more multipolar world order. China views the existing international system as being heavily skewed in favor of the United States and seeks to create alternative institutions and frameworks that reflect the changing balance of power. China also values RIC as a platform for strengthening its economic and strategic ties with Russia and India, both of which are important partners in its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Furthermore, China seeks to use RIC to promote its vision of regional security in Asia, particularly through the SCO. China's motivations are also driven by its desire to secure access to resources and markets, promote its development agenda, and challenge the dominance of the United States.

Areas of Convergence and Divergence

Despite their shared interests and goals, Russia, India, and China also have significant differences and disagreements. These areas of divergence pose challenges to the RIC trilateral and can limit its effectiveness.

• Border Disputes: The most significant source of tension between India and China is their unresolved border dispute. The two countries fought a brief but bloody war in 1962, and the border remains undemarcated in several areas. While the two sides have engaged in numerous rounds of negotiations to resolve the dispute, progress has been slow. The border issue has been a persistent source of friction in their relationship and has occasionally led to military standoffs.

• Pakistan: India and China also have differing views on Pakistan. China is a close ally of Pakistan and has provided it with significant economic and military assistance. India, on the other hand, views Pakistan as a source of instability and terrorism. China's support for Pakistan has been a major irritant in its relationship with India.

• The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): India has been critical of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which passes through disputed territory in Kashmir. India views the BRI as a tool for China to expand its influence in the region and undermine its own strategic interests.

• The Indo-Pacific: India and China have different visions for the Indo-Pacific region. India supports a free and open Indo-Pacific, which includes the United States, Japan, and Australia. China, on the other hand, views the Indo-Pacific strategy as an attempt to contain its rise and undermine its influence in the region.

• Russia-China Alignment: There is a growing concern in India about the increasing alignment between Russia and China. Some analysts argue that Russia is becoming increasingly dependent on China economically and strategically, which could limit its ability to act as an independent player in the RIC trilateral. India is wary of a situation where Russia becomes a junior partner to China, which could undermine its own interests.

Despite these areas of divergence, Russia, India, and China have been able to find common ground on a number of issues. They have cooperated on issues such as terrorism, climate change, and regional security. They have also worked together to promote multilateralism and strengthen the role of the United Nations. The ability of the three countries to manage their differences and find common ground will be crucial for the future success of the RIC trilateral.

The Role of International Organizations

The RIC trilateral is closely linked to other international organizations, particularly the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). These organizations provide additional platforms for Russia, India, and China to cooperate on various issues and promote their shared interests.

• The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO): The SCO is a Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance that was founded in 2001. Russia, India, and China are all members of the SCO, along with several Central Asian countries. The SCO's primary focus is on promoting regional security and stability, combating terrorism and extremism, and fostering economic cooperation. The SCO provides a valuable platform for Russia, India, and China to coordinate their policies on regional security issues and promote their shared interests in Central Asia.

• BRICS: BRICS is an intergovernmental organization comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The BRICS countries represent a significant share of the world's population, GDP, and trade. BRICS aims to promote economic cooperation and development among its member states and to advocate for a more multipolar world order. BRICS provides a valuable platform for Russia, India, and China to coordinate their policies on economic and financial issues and to promote their shared interests in global governance.

The RIC trilateral can be seen as the core of both the SCO and BRICS. The three countries play a leading role in both organizations and use them to advance their shared interests. The SCO and BRICS provide additional channels for Russia, India, and China to cooperate and coordinate their policies on a wide range of issues.

Challenges and Opportunities for the RIC Trilateral

The RIC trilateral faces a number of challenges and opportunities in the coming years. The challenges include:

• Managing Differences: The ability of Russia, India, and China to manage their differences and find common ground will be crucial for the future success of the RIC trilateral. The unresolved border dispute between India and China, differing views on Pakistan, and concerns about the BRI and the Indo-Pacific pose significant challenges to the grouping.

  Advertisement

• Balancing Relations with Other Powers: Russia, India, and China must also balance their relations with other powers, particularly the United States. The United States views the RIC trilateral with suspicion and sees it as a potential challenge to its dominance in the international system. Russia, India, and China must be careful not to alienate the United States or provoke a confrontation.

• Internal Cohesion: Maintaining internal cohesion within the RIC trilateral will also be a challenge. The three countries have different political systems, economic structures, and strategic cultures. These differences can make it difficult to reach consensus on certain issues and can limit the effectiveness of the grouping.

Despite these challenges, the RIC trilateral also has a number of opportunities. These include:

• Promoting Multilateralism: The RIC trilateral can play a leading role in promoting multilateralism and strengthening the role of the United Nations. All three countries share a commitment to a rules-based international order and can work together to uphold the principles of sovereignty, non-interference, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

• Addressing Global Challenges: The RIC trilateral can also play a significant role in addressing global challenges such as terrorism, climate change, and pandemics. The three countries have the resources and expertise to make a significant contribution to these efforts.

• Fostering Economic Cooperation: The RIC trilateral can foster economic cooperation among its member states and promote trade and investment. The three countries have complementary economies and can benefit from increased economic integration.

India's Strategic Balancing Act

India's participation in the RIC trilateral is a complex balancing act, reflecting its broader foreign policy approach of multi-alignment. India seeks to engage with various powers and groupings to promote its national interests and maintain its strategic autonomy.

India's decision to participate in RIC is not without its critics, particularly in the context of its growing strategic partnership with the United States and its participation in the Quad. Some argue that India's engagement with China in RIC undermines its efforts to counter China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

However, India's supporters argue that its participation in RIC is a pragmatic approach that allows it to engage with China on issues of mutual concern and to promote its own interests in a multilateral setting. They argue that India's engagement with China does not preclude it from pursuing closer ties with the United States and other like-minded countries.

India's participation in RIC also reflects its long-standing commitment to non-alignment and its desire to maintain strategic autonomy. India does not want to be seen as being aligned with any particular power or grouping and seeks to maintain its independence in foreign policy decision-making.

India's strategic balancing act is not without its challenges. It requires careful management of its relations with different powers and a clear understanding of its own national interests. However, India's ability to navigate these complexities will be crucial for its future role in global affairs.

The Future of the RIC Trilateral

The future of the RIC trilateral is uncertain. The grouping faces a number of challenges, including managing differences, balancing relations with other powers, and maintaining internal cohesion. However, the RIC trilateral also has a number of opportunities, including promoting multilateralism, addressing global challenges, and fostering economic cooperation.

The success of the RIC trilateral will depend on the ability of Russia, India, and China to manage their differences, find common ground, and work together to achieve their shared goals. The grouping's future will also depend on the broader geopolitical landscape and the evolving balance of power in the international system.

Despite the challenges, the RIC trilateral is likely to remain a significant force in global affairs. The three countries represent a formidable economic and military power and have a shared interest in promoting a more multipolar world order. The RIC trilateral provides a valuable platform for Russia, India, and China to cooperate on various issues and to promote their shared interests.

The RIC trilateral is not a formal alliance, and it is unlikely to become one in the future. The three countries have different political systems, economic structures, and strategic cultures, which make it difficult to forge a closer alliance. However, the RIC trilateral can continue to serve as a valuable forum for dialogue, coordination, and cooperation among Russia, India, and China.

The RIC trilateral is also likely to evolve over time. The grouping may expand its scope of cooperation to include new areas, such as technology, innovation, and health. It may also seek to strengthen its ties with other countries and organizations.

The future of the RIC trilateral will be shaped by a number of factors, including the evolving relationship between Russia, India, and China, the broader geopolitical landscape, and the ability of the three countries to adapt to changing circumstances. However, the RIC trilateral is likely to remain a significant force in global affairs for the foreseeable future.

Geopolitical Implications and the Shifting World Order

The Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral's importance transcends mere commemorative meetings; it represents a tangible manifestation of the shifting global order. For decades, the international system was largely defined by the dominance of the United States and its Western allies. However, the rise of China, the resurgence of Russia, and the growing influence of India have challenged this unipolar moment and paved the way for a more multipolar world.

The RIC trilateral, in this context, embodies the aspirations of these three powers to reshape the global landscape and create a more equitable distribution of power. It serves as a platform for them to coordinate their policies on various global issues, challenge the dominance of Western institutions, and promote their own interests.

The implications of the RIC trilateral for the broader geopolitical landscape are far-reaching. First, it challenges the U.S.-led alliance system in the Indo-Pacific region. While India is also a member of the Quad, its participation in RIC demonstrates its commitment to a multi-aligned foreign policy and its desire to maintain strategic autonomy.

Second, the RIC trilateral provides a counterweight to Western influence in international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the International Monetary Fund. The three countries have been critical of U.S. unilateralism and have called for a greater role for developing countries in global governance.

Third, the RIC trilateral has significant implications for regional security. All three countries share concerns about terrorism, extremism, and instability in Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the Middle East. They have been working together to promote peace and stability in these regions through various initiatives, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).

Fourth, the RIC trilateral has the potential to reshape the global economic landscape. The three countries represent a significant share of the world's population, GDP, and trade. They can work together to promote economic cooperation and development among developing countries and to challenge the dominance of Western financial institutions.

The rise of the RIC trilateral is not without its challenges. The three countries have significant differences and disagreements, and their ability to manage these differences will be crucial for the future success of the grouping. However, the RIC trilateral represents a significant force in global affairs and is likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the international system.

The RIC's Stance on Global Counter-Terrorism

The Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, adopted by the United Nations, serves as a crucial framework for international cooperation in combating terrorism. The Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral has consistently emphasized its commitment to this strategy, recognizing terrorism as a grave threat to international peace and security. The three countries have expressed their determination to strengthen cooperation in countering terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism, terrorist financing, and the spread of extremist ideologies.

The RIC countries have a shared interest in combating terrorism, as they have all been victims of terrorist attacks. Russia has faced challenges from Islamist groups in the North Caucasus, while India has been targeted by terrorist groups operating from Pakistan. China has faced challenges from separatist groups in Xinjiang.

The RIC countries have been working together to counter terrorism through various channels, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The SCO has a dedicated counter-terrorism structure, the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), which facilitates information sharing and cooperation among its member states.

The RIC countries have also been cooperating bilaterally on counter-terrorism. Russia and India have a long-standing tradition of cooperation in this area, while China and India have been increasing their cooperation in recent years.

The RIC countries have also been advocating for a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to counter-terrorism at the United Nations. They have called for the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in all its aspects and have emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of terrorism, such as poverty, inequality, and political marginalization.

The RIC's commitment to the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy reflects its recognition of terrorism as a global threat that requires a coordinated international response. The three countries have been working together to counter terrorism through various channels and have been advocating for a more comprehensive and coordinated approach at the United Nations.

Preventing an Arms Race in Outer Space

The prevention of an arms race in outer space is another key area of cooperation among the RIC countries. All three countries recognize the importance of maintaining outer space as a peaceful domain and have expressed their concern about the increasing militarization of outer space.

The RIC countries have been advocating for a legally binding international instrument to prevent an arms race in outer space. They have been working together at the United Nations to promote the adoption of such an instrument.

The RIC countries have also been promoting transparency and confidence-building measures in outer space. They have been advocating for the establishment of a multilateral mechanism for the exchange of information on space activities and for the development of norms of responsible behavior in outer space.

The RIC's commitment to preventing an arms race in outer space reflects its recognition of the importance of maintaining outer space as a peaceful domain and its concern about the increasing militarization of outer space. The three countries have been working together to promote the adoption of a legally binding international instrument to prevent an arms race in outer space and have been promoting transparency and confidence-building measures.

India's Geostrategic Calculations

India's participation in the RIC trilateral reflects its complex geostrategic calculations. India is a rising global power with growing geostrategic importance. It is located at the crossroads of Asia and is a key player in the Indo-Pacific region.

India's foreign policy is guided by the principles of non-alignment, strategic autonomy, and multi-alignment. India seeks to engage with various powers and groupings to promote its national interests and maintain its strategic autonomy.

India's participation in RIC is consistent with its foreign policy principles. RIC provides a platform for India to engage with Russia and China on issues of mutual concern and to promote its own interests in a multilateral setting.

India's participation in RIC also reflects its recognition of the importance of Russia and China in the emerging multipolar world order. Russia is a major power with a long-standing relationship with India, while China is a rising economic and military power.

India's participation in RIC does not preclude it from pursuing closer ties with the United States and other like-minded countries. India's strategic partnership with the United States is growing, and India is also a member of the Quad.

India's geostrategic calculations are complex and multifaceted. India seeks to engage with various powers and groupings to promote its national interests and maintain its strategic autonomy. India's participation in RIC is consistent with its foreign policy principles and reflects its recognition of the importance of Russia and China in the emerging multipolar world order.

The Economic Dimension: Towards a New Global Economic Structure

The RIC trilateral also has a significant economic dimension. The three countries represent a significant share of the world's population, GDP, and trade. They have the potential to work together to create a new global economic structure that is more equitable and sustainable.

The RIC countries have been promoting economic cooperation among themselves and with other developing countries. They have been advocating for a greater role for developing countries in global economic governance.

The RIC countries have also been working together to promote trade and investment. They have been advocating for a more open and rules-based international trading system.

The RIC countries have also been promoting financial cooperation. They have been advocating for a greater role for developing countries in international financial institutions.

The RIC's economic dimension reflects its recognition of the importance of economic cooperation for promoting development and stability. The three countries have been working together to create a new global economic structure that is more equitable and sustainable.

Navigating the Complexities of Afghanistan, West Asia, and Iran

The RIC trilateral provides a crucial platform for India to discuss and address differences with Russia and China on complex geopolitical issues such as Afghanistan, West Asia, and Iran sanctions. These regions are characterized by instability, conflict, and competing interests, making it essential for major powers to engage in dialogue and seek common ground.

• Afghanistan: The situation in Afghanistan has been a major concern for all three RIC countries. The withdrawal of US troops and the subsequent rise of the Taliban have created a power vacuum and raised fears of a resurgence of terrorism and instability. The RIC countries have been working together to promote peace and stability in Afghanistan through various channels, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). They have also been providing humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people. India, in particular, has a long-standing relationship with Afghanistan and has been a major provider of development assistance.

• West Asia: West Asia is another region of strategic importance to the RIC countries. The region is characterized by conflict, political instability, and sectarian divisions. The RIC countries have been advocating for a peaceful resolution of conflicts in the region and have been supporting efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation. India has strong economic and cultural ties with many countries in West Asia and has been playing a constructive role in promoting peace and stability.

  Advertisement

• Iran Sanctions: The issue of Iran sanctions has been a source of tension between the RIC countries and the United States. The United States has imposed sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program, while the RIC countries have maintained economic and political ties with Iran. India, in particular, has been concerned about the impact of sanctions on its energy security. The RIC countries have been advocating for a peaceful resolution of the Iran nuclear issue and have been supporting the Iran nuclear deal.

The RIC trilateral provides a valuable platform for India to engage with Russia and China on these complex geopolitical issues and to promote its own interests in a multilateral setting. The three countries have different perspectives and interests, but they also share a common desire for peace and stability in these regions.

The RIC and the Future of Multilateralism

The Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral embodies a commitment to multilateralism, a principle that advocates for cooperation and collaboration among nations to address shared challenges. In a world increasingly characterized by unilateralism and protectionism, the RIC grouping stands as a testament to the importance of international cooperation and the need for a rules-based global order.

The RIC countries have consistently emphasized the importance of strengthening the role of the United Nations and other multilateral institutions. They have been advocating for reforms to make these institutions more representative and effective.

The RIC countries have also been working together to promote multilateral solutions to global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and pandemics. They have been advocating for a more coordinated and comprehensive approach to addressing these challenges.

The RIC's commitment to multilateralism reflects its recognition that many of the challenges facing the world today cannot be solved by any one country alone. International cooperation is essential for addressing these challenges and for creating a more peaceful and prosperous world.

The RIC trilateral is not without its challenges. The three countries have different perspectives and interests, and their ability to manage these differences will be crucial for the future success of the grouping. However, the RIC's commitment to multilateralism provides a solid foundation for cooperation and collaboration.

The RIC trilateral is a significant force in global affairs and is likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of the international system. Its commitment to multilateralism provides a valuable counterweight to unilateralism and protectionism and offers a vision of a more cooperative and sustainable world.

Historical Connections: Non-Alignment and Cold War Dynamics

The roots of the Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral can be traced back to the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the dynamics of the Cold War. During the Cold War, India and China were both members of the NAM, which sought to carve out an independent path in international affairs and avoid being drawn into the rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union.

The NAM provided a platform for India and China to cooperate on various issues and to promote their shared interests. However, the Sino-Indian War of 1962 strained their relationship and led to a period of estrangement.

After the end of the Cold War, Russia, India, and China began to explore the possibility of closer cooperation. The idea of a strategic partnership between the three countries was first floated by the then-Russian Prime Minister Yevgeny Primakov in 1998.

The RIC trilateral can be seen as a continuation of the NAM's efforts to promote a more multipolar world order and to challenge the dominance of Western powers. The three countries share a desire to create a more equitable and sustainable international system.

The historical connections between Russia, India, and China provide a valuable context for understanding the dynamics of the RIC trilateral. The NAM and the Cold War have shaped the foreign policy perspectives of the three countries and have influenced their approach to international affairs.

Future Outlook: Managing Differences and Finding Common Ground

The future of the Russia-India-China (RIC) trilateral will depend on the ability of the three countries to manage their differences and find common ground on key global issues. The RIC grouping faces a number of challenges, including:

• The unresolved border dispute between India and China: This dispute has been a source of tension between the two countries for decades and has occasionally led to military standoffs.

• China's close relationship with Pakistan: India views Pakistan as a sponsor of terrorism and is concerned about China's support for Pakistan.

• Differing views on the Indo-Pacific: India supports a free and open Indo-Pacific, while China views the Indo-Pacific strategy as an attempt to contain its rise.

• Russia's growing alignment with China: Some analysts argue that Russia is becoming increasingly dependent on China, which could limit its ability to act as an independent player in the RIC trilateral.

  Advertisement

Despite these challenges, the RIC trilateral also has a number of strengths, including:

• A shared desire for a more multipolar world order: All three countries are committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable international system.

• A growing economic relationship: The three countries represent a significant share of the world's population, GDP, and trade.

• A common interest in addressing global challenges: The three countries have been working together to promote multilateral solutions to global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and pandemics.

The future success of the RIC trilateral will depend on the ability of the three countries to build on their strengths and to manage their differences. If they can do so, the RIC grouping has the potential to play a significant role in shaping the future of the international system.