In a firm address at the Closed Plenary Session of the 16th BRICS Summit on Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged member countries to strengthen their cooperation in combating terrorism and terror financing, emphasizing that there is no room for double standards in addressing these grave issues.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the necessity for a collective effort, saying, “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 further stressed the importance of actively preventing the radicalization of youth within BRICS nations.
PM Modi called for progress on the long-standing issue of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations. He also underscored the need for global regulations concerning cybersecurity and the safe use of artificial intelligence.
The summit takes place against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, notably China’s previous obstruction in June 2023 of a United Nations initiative to designate Sajid Mir, a Pakistan-based terrorist involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, as a “global terrorist.”
The Prime Minister advocated for reforms in international institutions, including the UN Security Council. “We must move forward in a time-bound manner on reforms in global institutions such as the UN Security Council, multilateral development banks, and the WTO,” he said. PM Modi cautioned against allowing BRICS to be perceived as an entity seeking to replace established global institutions, rather than reform them.
Emphasizing the needs of the Global South, PM Modi said, “The hopes, aspirations, and expectations of the countries of the Global South must also be kept in mind.” He highlighted India’s efforts during its G20 Presidency to amplify these voices and welcomed the integration of African countries into BRICS.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the summit’s timing amid pressing global challenges, including wars, economic instability, 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 matters of priority for all countries in the world,” he said.
He said the emergence of new technological challenges such as cyber deepfakes and disinformation, stressing high expectations for BRICS as a diverse and inclusive platform. “I believe that BRICS can play a positive role in all areas,” PM added.
PM Modi reiterated that the organization should maintain a people-centric approach, conveying that BRICS is not a divisive entity but one that works for the betterment of humanity. He reaffirmed India’s readiness to welcome new countries as partner members in BRICS, insisting that all decisions should be made by consensus and respect the views of founding members.
Finally, PM expressed gratitude to President Putin for the excellent organization of the summit and extended a warm welcome to the new countries joining the BRICS family. “I congratulate President Putin for Russia’s successful presidency of BRICS over the last year,” he said.
(Inputs from ANI)
