The Prime minister of India recently addressed the 12th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit, which was conducted online. During his speech, he discussed numerous pressing issues, including terrorism, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the need for reforms in global organizations. This year, the BRICS summit was hosted and chaired by Russia.
India’s Views at the BRICS Summit
During the BRICS summit, India outlined its stance on several crucial topics.
On terrorism, India voiced the need to collectively confront countries that supported and sponsored terrorism. It also underlined the importance of holding terrorists and their supporters accountable. The country expressed its support for the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, which aligns with the Brasilia Declaration condemning all forms of terrorism.
Regarding reforms in the United Nation Security Council (UNSC), India pointed out the need to improve the credibility and effectiveness of global governance institutions. The prime minister urged other BRICS nations to support these necessary reforms.
The Impact of Covid-19 and the Role of BRICS
Discussing the Covid-19 pandemic, India stressed the need for cooperation among BRICS countries in vaccine production. Considering the economic challenges caused by the pandemic, India emphasized the significant role that BRICS countries can play in recovery, as they are home to 42% of the world’s population and serve as major engines of the global economy. The potential for increased trade among BRICS nations was also highlighted during the discussions.
Atmanirbhar Bharat Initiative
India introduced the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative to the BRICS. The initiative’s goal is to develop a self-reliant and resilient India, contributing to the post-Covid-19 world order and impacting global value chains positively.
China’s Stance at the Summit
China offered to collaborate with India and other BRICS nations in developing vaccines against the coronavirus. China also announced plans for a new industrial revolution innovation center in the city of Xiamen. Additionally, China expressed its support for the BRICS counter-terrorism strategy, emphasizing respect for the territorial integrity of Syria, Libya, Iraq under the United Nations’ framework.
Russia’s Views and Suggestions
Russia suggested a joint effort by BRICS nations to develop Covid-19 vaccines. The country also underscored the need for a BRICS Centre for Development and Research of vaccines.
BRICS Summit: An Opportunity for India and China
The BRICS Summit offers an opportunity for Chinese and Indian leaders to share their thoughts on key priorities against the backdrop of ongoing border tensions. Both the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS have recently served as platforms for idea exchange between the two nations.
The Way Forward: BRICS Importance in Global Affairs
As one of the pillars of the increasingly polycentric world order, BRICS plays a stabilizing role in global affairs. Amidst the turbulence of world politics, BRICS can contribute significantly to maintaining international stability, ensuring global economic growth, and becoming a united center of the multipolar world.
