The virtual National Security Advisers (NSAs) meet of the Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) grouping was recently hosted by Russia. The meeting tackled several key points including a draft anti-terrorism strategy and other pressing global security matters.
Discussion on Draft Anti-Terrorism Plan
The main focus of the gathering was a draft anti-terrorism strategy expected to gain approval at a forthcoming summit. It was designed to reflect fundamental aspects of the BRICS states, encompassing respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, adherence to international law, and recognition of the United Nations’ (UN) central role in security matters.
Addressing Other Global Security Issues
In addition to the anti-terrorism plan, the meeting also delved into the challenges and threats to global, regional, and national security. A call for biological security cooperation and information and communications technology security was made. Furthermore, a proposal was put forward to persist in working on a system to counteract security threats related to information technology.
Criticism Over Deployment of Space Weapons
During the meeting, the Russian side voiced its concerns over the deployment of weapons in space by the USA and the usage of outer space for military operations. Russia expressed alarm about the escalating tensions with the USA in Iran, Venezuela, and Syria.
Proposal for New Mechanisms
Russia proposed the creation of new mechanisms to counter epidemiological threats and suggested conducting expert consultations on biosafety within the BRICS format.
The Essence of Cooperation among BRICS
The five countries have agreed to work on deepening coordination at key international organizations and forums, especially the UN. They are also cooperating to build a multipolar system based on justice and equality.
The Origins of BRICS
BRICS is an acronym for the world’s leading emerging economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The term BRIC was first coined by British economist Jim O’Neill in 2001, referring to Brazil, Russia, India, and China. It was formalized during the first meeting of BRIC Foreign Ministers in 2006. South Africa joined BRIC in December 2010, which led to the group adopting the BRICS acronym.
BRICS Leadership and Key Agreements
The chairmanship of the forum rotates annually among members in accordance with the acronym B-R-I-C-S. During the Sixth BRICS Summit in Fortaleza (Brazil) in 2014, an agreement establishing the New Development Bank (NDB) in Shanghai, China was signed. The leaders also agreed on the BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement to provide short-term liquidity support to member nations.
The Way Forward for India
India considers terrorism as a severe threat. Adoption of the proposed draft anti-terrorism strategy by BRICS members could assist India in combating terrorism and expose states that sponsor terrorism. Despite the lack of discussion around the India-China standoff at Ladakh during the NSAs meet, BRICS provides an essential platform for diplomatic engagement between both nations.
Last Modified: February 9, 2024