Part 6/12:
Xi Jinping’s absence is particularly sensitive. Although Beijing claims it’s purely a scheduling matter, reports suggest underlying tensions. The decision may reflect dissatisfaction with Brazil’s invitation of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to a state dinner—an act perceived as a slight by China, which had expected reciprocity for President Lula’s recent visit to Beijing. This subtle diplomatic snubbing hints at deeper fractures within the BRICS alliance, which was initially envisioned as a counterbalance to Western influence.