Diplomatic discussions between Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and his Chinese counterpart Qin Gang began during a gathering in India. The start of their conversations was confirmed by Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who shared the update via her telegraph channel. The circle of meetings in Goa is part of a broader effort to coordinate positions on regional security, economic cooperation, and multi-lateral diplomacy as global alignments shift in the post-pandemic era.
A short video released by the Russian side shows Lavrov and Qin shaking hands and exchanging a firm, professional exchange as reporters captured the moment for archival records. The moment underscores a continuing close line of communication between Moscow and Beijing, even as each nation pursues its own strategic interests on the world stage.
Lavrov arrived in Goa on the morning of May 4 to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Council of Foreign Ministers summit. The event gathers ministers from SCO member states to discuss common challenges, regional stability, trade, and connectivity projects that involve not only the member states but also observer countries and partners who attend pipelines of dialogue and cooperation.
During the Goa meetings, Lavrov is slated to conduct a series of bilateral discussions with colleagues from nearby major players, including representatives from India, Pakistan, and China. These talks aim to calibrate common approaches on regional security, economic exchange, and coordinated stances in multilateral forums, reflecting ongoing efforts to build trust and practical cooperation across the region.
Additionally, remarks made at the end of April by the Russian minister highlighted a trend: a growing number of Global South nations are seeking deeper engagement with the SCO and with BRICS, the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The evolving dynamics suggest a wider search for institutional partnerships, greater voice in international forums, and expanded participation in regional development initiatives. Analysts note that the shift signals intentions to bolster South-South collaboration, diversify economic partnerships, and enhance collective influence in global governance through these multi-country platforms (sources from official statements and regional analyses).