BRICS Must Focus on Global South and Push for Governance Reforms: PM Modi

GG News Bureau
Kazan, Russia | 23rd Oct. Prime Minister Narendra Modi today participated in the 16th BRICS Summit, held under the chairship of Russia in Kazan. The summit saw discussions on key global issues such as strengthening multilateralism, countering terrorism, fostering economic growth, and addressing the concerns of the Global South. The BRICS leaders also welcomed 13 new partner countries to the grouping.

PM Modi addressed two sessions during the summit, where he emphasized the growing global uncertainties, including conflicts, climate impacts, and cyber threats, which demand greater responsibility from BRICS. He advocated for a people-centric approach to tackle these challenges and called for the early adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations.

Highlighting the need for global governance reforms, the Prime Minister urged BRICS to prioritize the concerns of the Global South, as reflected during India’s G-20 presidency. He also spoke about the impact of the New Development Bank, especially its regional presence in GIFT City, India. Stressing economic growth, PM Modi pointed to BRICS’ efforts in trade facilitation, resilient supply chains, and e-commerce, while urging the prioritization of small and medium industries. He announced the upcoming launch of the BRICS Startup Forum, initiated by India, which he said would add value to the economic agenda.

The Prime Minister also underscored India’s green initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Mission LIFE, and the Green Credit initiative launched at COP28. He invited BRICS countries to join these efforts.

PM Modi congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin for successfully hosting the summit and extended his best wishes to Brazil, which will take over the BRICS presidency. The summit concluded with the adoption of the ‘Kazan Declaration’.