A major geopolitical shift may be on the horizon, as an old alliance in Eurasia is poised for revival. A new Eurasian mega-alliance could shake western hegemony. The RIC bloc – Russia, India, and China – is making a comeback, and it could prove even more transformative than BRICS.
Here’s why RIC matters – and why it may reshape the global balance of power.
The pillars of RIC
Russia – The largest country in the world by landmass, Russia is rich in natural resources: oil, gas, coal, wheat, fertiliser, gold, diamonds, iron, timber, platinum, titanium, uranium, and more. Its military is among the world’s most advanced, with a formidable nuclear arsenal, hypersonic missiles, cutting-edge fighter jets, and missile defence systems.
Measured by purchasing power parity (PPP), Russia ranks as the world’s fourth-largest economy. Despite sweeping Western sanctions, its economy has remained remarkably resilient – thanks in large part to domestic reforms and a pivot away from dependence on Western financial structures.
India – India is now the world’s most populous country, boasting a booming economy, a rapidly growing middle class, and a young, tech-savvy workforce. With major investments in science, R&D, and manufacturing, India is positioning itself to become the next global industrial powerhouse. Its strategic location, once the “crown jewel” of the British Empire, continues to give it geopolitical weight.
China – China leads globally in manufacturing (expected to hit 45% global share by 2030), technology, scientific research, patents, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence. It has the world’s largest navy, a rapidly modernising military, and the second-largest defence budget globally.
By PPP, China’s economy is already 20% larger than that of the US. As billionaire investor Ray Dalio notes, China is catching up with America across every metric.
Why RIC matters more than BRICS
Unlike BRICS, which is largely an economic forum, RIC has the potential to become a strategic and military bloc. It could enable regional security coordination without formal treaties like NATO.
This is crucial in a world where American influence is facing growing resistance, particularly in Asia.
What’s Changed?
RIC meetings had paused since the 2020 India-China border clash. But now, with relations thawing – including initiatives such as visa programmes, pilgrimage access, and joint corporate ventures – the alliance is regaining momentum.
