Xi Jinping Skips PM Modi’s BRICS Gala Dinner: Who Represented China Instead?

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi represented Beijing at the official BRICS gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam, diplomatic sources confirmed. The representation came after Chinese President Xi Jinping chose to skip the high-profile evening event despite participating in the summit's core business sessions and bilateral engagements earlier in the day.

Representation at the Gala Dinner

Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the dinner alongside high-level delegations from other member states and partner nations. Reports indicate President Xi opted out of the evening reception to rest at his hotel following a tightly scheduled series of multilateral meetings and bilateral discussions. ‘China and India Are Partners, Not Rivals’: Xi Jinping at BRICS.

While President Xi was notably absent from the dinner table, global leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin and top Indian Cabinet ministers attended the event, which featured a curated menu showcasing traditional Indian cuisine.

Bilateral Engagements and Summit Priorities

Earlier in the day, President Xi met directly with Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the summit. The two leaders discussed bilateral ties, economic cooperation, and stability along the shared border, with Prime Minister Modi emphasizing that peace along the frontier remains essential for normalized relations.

During the summit's plenary sessions, President Xi outlined key points regarding China-India ties and broader BRICS cooperation. Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s presence at the dinner ensured Beijing remained represented throughout the formal evening proceedings. Rahul Gandhi Takes Dig at BRICS Dinner Menu, Says ‘80% of Indians Are Non-Vegetarian’.

Wang Yi Represents China at PM Modi’s Dinner

Delhi | China was represented by Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the BRICS gala dinner last night: Sources

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2026

Context of Diplomatic Engagements

Xi’s absence from the evening reception drew notice given the high diplomatic visibility of BRICS cultural dinners, which serve as informal platforms for bilateral networking. However, diplomatic officials minimized speculation, noting that leaders frequently adjust their evening itineraries during intense summit schedules.

The BRICS summit continues with scheduled sessions focusing on trade integration, global financial reforms, and expanded cooperation among Global South nations.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 13, 2026 07:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).