Expert Explains: Why Xi Jinping may be keeping India guessing over his BRICS summit participation

The article analyzes the reasons behind the ambiguity surrounding Chinese President Xi Jinping's potential attendance at an upcoming BRICS summit in New Delhi. It suggests that China's suspense may be a tactical move, influenced by ongoing bilateral tensions, particularly India's actions regarding Arunachal Pradesh and China's historical claims. The piece highlights past instances of Xi's absence from major summits (like the 2023 G20 in New Delhi and a 2025 BRICS summit in Brazil) and links them to the state of India-China relations, including border disputes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Experts suggest China might be seeking concessions from India on issues like investment, visas, and its stance on Tibetan and Taiwan issues, or signaling against India's deepening alignment with the US.