PM urges BRICS to focus on people-centric solutions amid global challenges

New Delhi, Oct 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the stage with a call for global cooperation and a focus on solutions to the pressing challenges of the modern world. Addressing the gathering of BRICS leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, Modi highlighted the critical role BRICS can play in tackling issues like terrorism, economic uncertainty, and climate change.

Modi thanked President Putin for hosting the summit and praised Russia’s presidency of BRICS, which he called successful. He also warmly welcomed the new members who joined the “BRICS family,” highlighting the diversity and inclusivity of the organization. “I express my heartfelt gratitude to President Putin for the wonderful organization of today’s meeting,” he said.

He went on to frame the world’s current challenges: “Our meeting is taking place at a time when the world is facing several pressing challenges such as wars, economic uncertainty, climate change, and terrorism. The world is talking about the North-South divide and the East-West divide. Preventing inflation, ensuring food security, energy security, health security, and water security are priorities for all countries.”

This summit, the first BRICS gathering to welcome an expanded set of member nations, takes place against the backdrop of global crises, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, and growing economic headwinds. Modi pointed out that newer threats have emerged in the digital age, such as cybersecurity, disinformation, and deepfake technologies.

“In this era of technology, new challenges have emerged such as cyber threats, deepfakes, and disinformation. At such a time, there are high expectations of BRICS. I believe that as a diverse and inclusive platform, BRICS can play a positive role in all areas,” Modi added.

People-Centric Approach and Unity

One of Modi’s key messages was the need for a people-centric approach in solving these issues. He stressed that BRICS should be perceived as a force for good, rather than a divisive bloc. “Our approach must remain people-centric. We have to give the world the message that BRICS is not a divisive organisation but one that works in the interest of humanity. We support dialogue and diplomacy, not war,” the prime minister stated.

Modi’s remarks highlighted BRICS’ capacity to create new opportunities for collaboration, just as the bloc had cooperated effectively during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Just as we overcame a challenge like COVID together, we can certainly create new opportunities to ensure a secure, strong, and prosperous future for coming generations,” he said.

On terrorism, Modi took a firm stance. “In order to counter terrorism and terror financing, we need the single-minded, firm support of all. There is no place for double standards on this serious matter,” he said, adding that radicalisation, particularly of youth, must be addressed head-on. Modi also called for global cooperation on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) regulation, advocating for the safe development and use of new technologies.

Modi emphasised the importance of giving a voice to the Global South, especially in forums like BRICS. “The hopes, aspirations, and expectations of the countries of the Global South must also be kept in mind. During our Voice of Global South Summits and G20 Presidency, India put the voices of these countries on the global stage. I am pleased that these efforts are being strengthened under BRICS as well.”

Reflecting India’s position on multilateralism, Modi reiterated his call for reforms in international institutions like the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), World Trade Organization (WTO), and multilateral development banks. “We must collectively raise our voices for reforms in global institutions. We must move forward in a time-bound manner on reforms in global institutions like the UN Security Council, multilateral development banks, and the WTO,” he asserted.

However, Modi was careful to stress that BRICS must not be seen as a rival to these global institutions but rather a partner in reforming them. “As we take our efforts forward in BRICS, we must be careful to ensure that this organisation does not acquire the image of one that is trying to replace global institutions,” he warned.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in his opening remarks, focused on the theme of a “multipolar world order.” He emphasized that BRICS is playing an increasingly influential role in international affairs. “The formation of a multipolar world order is in progress and irreversible,” Putin declared. “The BRICS organization is enhancing its influence in international affairs, and we need to think about how to tackle the most urgent global issues, including serious regional conflicts.”

Putin also highlighted financial challenges, particularly in light of Western sanctions on Russia. He called for the establishment of alternative international payment systems within BRICS to facilitate trade between member countries, free from the constraints of U.S. dollar dominance. According to Putin, over 30 countries have expressed interest in joining the BRICS bloc.

Chinese President Xi Jinping echoed similar sentiments, stressing the need for closer cooperation among BRICS nations. Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening economic ties within BRICS and supported efforts to reform global governance institutions. He also advocated for multilateral solutions to regional conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine.

UN Chief Guterres’ Appeal for Diplomacy

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, attending the summit for the first time in two years, urged all BRICS leaders to prioritise diplomacy. With the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine escalating, Guterres expressed concern over the humanitarian toll these wars are taking. He is scheduled to meet Putin privately to discuss avenues for peace, including the peace initiatives proposed by countries like India, China and Brazil.

“The world is facing extraordinary challenges, and it is imperative that nations come together to find peaceful solutions to conflicts,” Guterres said. His remarks come as tensions continue to simmer globally, with little progress toward resolving the Ukraine conflict or the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Modi’s firm stance on people-centric development and diplomacy signals India’s intent to lead in areas that are critical to both the Global South and the world at large. His comments on the need for unity, inclusivity, and reform set the tone for BRICS to potentially emerge as a key player in shaping the geopolitical future. As leaders prepare for further negotiations, one thing is clear: BRICS is evolving. With an expanded membership and growing influence, the bloc is positioning itself to address global challenges with renewed vigour and purpose.