Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation in the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, on Wednesday was marked by his strong calls for a people-centric approach to global challenges and a reformed multilateral system. During the closed plenary session, PM Modi stressed the importance of focusing on human needs while tackling issues like wars, economic uncertainty, climate change, and terrorism. He also urged for a shift towards reformed multilateralism, emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy over conflict. “We support dialogue and diplomacy, not war,” he declared, underscoring India’s commitment to peaceful resolutions.
The Prime Minister’s remarks at the Open Plenary session delved into the critical role of BRICS in tackling global challenges. He highlighted the need for “skilling of workforce, health security, sustainable development, economic growth, and innovation.” These priorities, he emphasized, were crucial for ensuring a secure and prosperous future for future generations.
Modi’s speech at the closed plenary session highlighted India’s stance on crucial global issues, emphasizing the need for united action against terrorism and terror financing. He called for a firm and consistent approach, condemning double standards and advocating for the implementation of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. He also stressed the importance of addressing emerging challenges like cyber security and safe and secure AI, underscoring the need for global regulations in these areas.
Modi’s participation in the summit also included a significant announcement regarding India’s willingness to welcome new countries as partner countries into the BRICS grouping. He emphasized, however, that all decisions should be taken through consensus, respecting the views of the founding members. He also reiterated the importance of adhering to the guiding principles, standards, criteria, and procedures established at the Johannesburg summit.
In the open plenary, PM Modi focused on BRICS’s economic potential and its role in fostering global growth. He highlighted the growing economic influence of BRICS, now accounting for 40% of the world’s population and approximately 30% of the global economy. He acknowledged the New Development Bank’s vital role in addressing the development needs of developing nations and the significant progress made in its operations, with development projects worth around USD 35 billion sanctioned. He also stressed the need to prioritize long-term financial sustainability and a healthy credit rating for the bank.
Modi underscored the importance of the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Women Business Alliance in strengthening economic cooperation. He also expressed satisfaction with the consensus achieved on WTO reforms, trade facilitation in agriculture, resilient supply chains, e-commerce, and Special Economic Zones. He emphasized the need to address the concerns of small and medium-scale industries, welcoming the launch of the BRICS Startup Forum.
Addressing the pressing issue of climate change, PM Modi welcomed the consensus reached for the BRICS Open Carbon Market Partnership. He highlighted India’s commitment to green growth and its initiatives like the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LiFE, and Green Credit. He extended an invitation to BRICS partners to join these initiatives.
Modi also highlighted India’s successful digital health initiatives and its willingness to share these experiences with BRICS partners. He concluded his remarks by reaffirming India’s commitment to deepening cooperation within BRICS, emphasizing that the organization’s diversity and shared belief in humanity will contribute to a prosperous future for generations to come.