Prime Minister if India Narendra Modi attended the Closed Plenary Session of the BRICS Summit in Russia on Wednesday, where he emphasized India’s commitment to dialogue and diplomacy over conflict.
“We advocate for dialogue and diplomacy, not war. Just as we overcame the COVID challenge together, we are capable of creating new opportunities for a safe, strong, and prosperous future for the next generation. Similarly, we need to work on global regulations for cyber security and safe AI,” Modi stated during the session.
He stressed the importance of BRICS countries taking a firm stance against terrorism and terror financing, emphasizing the need for unity and decisive action.
“We must collectively confront terrorism and its financing, with no tolerance for double standards. It is crucial to take steps to prevent youth radicalization. Additionally, we must work together on the UN’s Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism,” he added.
Modi highlighted the need for BRICS to remain focused on people at a time of global challenges, including wars, economic uncertainty, climate change, and new technological threats like cyber security and disinformation. “BRICS, as a diverse and inclusive platform, can play a positive role. Our approach should be people-centric, demonstrating that BRICS is not a divisive entity but one that serves public interest,” he said.
He also expressed India’s readiness to welcome new BRICS partner countries, stating that decisions on expansion should be made unanimously, with respect for the founding members’ views. Modi called for reforms in global institutions such as the UN Security Council, multilateral development banks, and the WTO, emphasizing the need for progress in a time-bound manner.
Modi further clarified that BRICS is not looking to replace global institutions but to reform them.
