NEW DELHI — On the second day of the BRICS summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the occasion to highlight how growing geopolitical tensions, supply‑chain shocks and climate emergencies are hurting families across the globe. Speaking alongside leaders from Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa and other emerging economies, Modi stressed the need for a united Global South to protect ordinary citizens from the fallout of conflict and economic instability.
Geopolitical risks and everyday impact
“The number of conflicts and tensions in the world is continuously increasing, and this is having an increasingly negative and far‑reaching impact on the lives of ordinary people,” Modi said, referencing recent unrest in the Middle East, Sudan and other flashpoints. He warned that the “weaponization of technology and critical minerals” could further hinder development and shared prosperity if left unchecked.
Joint health‑security initiative
In response to the pandemic’s lessons, the bloc announced a new integrated early‑warning system for infectious diseases. The system aims to improve preparedness and rapid response to future outbreaks, a move Modi presented as a concrete step toward safeguarding public health and economic stability.
Calls for a multipolar world and institutional reform
BRICS leaders reiterated support for a truly multipolar world order, urging reforms of the United Nations Security Council and greater representation for developing nations in the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. The declaration also condemned unilateral sanctions and coercive economic measures that are not authorized by the U.N., emphasizing that such actions undermine global trade and supply chains.
Economic cooperation and local‑currency trade
The summit highlighted the bloc’s commitment to expanding the use of local currencies in trade and strengthening cross‑border payment systems. Leaders pledged cooperation on food security, energy, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence and climate action, positioning BRICS as a platform for alternative, non‑Western‑dominated financial solutions.
Diplomatic breakthrough among rivals
One of the summit’s notable achievements was forging consensus among Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates—countries that often hold competing regional positions. Their agreement to support the joint declaration underscores the diplomatic skill of the host nation and the potential for BRICS to serve as a bridge in contentious geopolitical landscapes.
Modi concluded by urging all members to deepen cooperation, stating that only through collective effort can the Global South mitigate the adverse effects of conflict, climate disasters and supply‑chain disruptions on everyday families.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
