During the 16th BRICS Summit on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s support for resolving international conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue. “We support dialogue and diplomacy, not war,” he stated, addressing the pressing issues faced by the world, including the conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine.
Modi expressed concern over ongoing wars, economic instability, climate change, and terrorism. He highlighted the potential of BRICS to guide the world toward positive outcomes. “We should send a message that BRICS is not a divisive group but one that serves public interests,” he said.
He reflected on the collaborative efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, expressing optimism about creating new opportunities for a secure and prosperous future. “Just as we overcame the challenge of COVID together, we can certainly forge new paths for future generations,” Modi remarked.
The Prime Minister called for unified action among BRICS nations to tackle terrorism and its financing. “To counter terrorism, we need firm, unwavering support from all. There is no room for double standards on this serious issue,” he asserted.
Modi stressed the importance of preventing radicalization among youth and urged collaborative efforts to finalize the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN. He also pointed out the need for global regulations on cybersecurity and safe artificial intelligence.
In his address, Modi welcomed the inclusion of new countries into BRICS, advocating that decisions should be made by consensus while respecting the views of founding members. He also pushed for reforms in global institutions, including the UN Security Council, urging timely action on these necessary changes.
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin hosted the summit, which included leaders like China’s Xi Jinping and Modi, aiming to enhance the BRICS alliance and counter Western influence. The BRICS group, which started with Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Countries like Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Malaysia have also expressed interest in joining.
The three-day summit in Kazan saw participation from 36 countries, signaling a setback for US-led attempts to isolate Russia due to its actions in Ukraine. The Kremlin described the event as “the largest foreign policy gathering ever held” by Russia.
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