India's triumph at Brics: PM unites summit against terrorism, pushes reforms

India Today

a day ago

India emerged as a leading voice at the 17th Brics Summit in Brazil, securing a unanimous condemnation of terrorism and pushing for urgent reforms in global governance institutions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's participation shaped the summit's agenda, particularly spotlighting the fight against terrorism.The summit, themed 'Strengthening Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,' concluded with the adoption of the Rio de Janeiro Declaration, which reflected many of India's strategic concerns. It delivered a sharp message on cross-border terrorism, while also highlighting the contradictions in China's stance.advertisementAddressing the session on Peace and Security, PM Modi condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which killed 26 people. He described it as an 'assault on humanity.' The Brics declaration echoed this sentiment, denouncing the attack in the 'strongest terms' and rejecting 'double standards' in countering terrorism.
The declaration called for decisive action against UN-designated terrorists and those who fund or shelter them—an implicit reference to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism. Speaking at a press conference, Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of External Affairs, said India's diplomatic efforts ensured that Para 34 of the declaration captured a united stand against terrorism, including those who 'abet, finance, covertly or overtly.'The reference to the 'cross-border movement of terrorists' served as a direct nod to India's longstanding concerns. The PM said that 'victims and supporters of terrorism cannot be weighed on the same scale,' and called for sanctions on those who aid terrorists. All 11 Brics members and partner countries expressed solidarity, marking a diplomatic win for India.However, China's dual role drew criticism. While Beijing joined the condemnation of the Pahalgam attack, it continues to shield Pakistan by blocking UN designations of Pakistan-based terrorists. PM Modi's pointed remark against those offering 'silent consent' to terrorism for political gain appeared to target this inconsistency. Though Chinese Premier Li Qiang led the delegation in place of President Xi Jinping, India's assertive diplomacy ensured that terrorism remained central to the summit's focus.Beyond the security agenda, India led the charge for reforming global institutions. The PM called for a 'multipolar and inclusive world order' and stressed the need to overhaul the UN Security Council, IMF, World Bank, and WTO to reflect current global realities. According to Dammu Ravi, Para 6 of the declaration 'strongly endorsed' this demand, and highlighted the roles of India and Brazil in elevating the voice of the Global South.India also advanced a proposal for a Brics science and research repository to secure critical mineral supply chains and develop responsible AI, in line with its commitment to sustainable development. In bilateral talks with countries like Malaysia, Cuba, South Africa, and Vietnam, the Prime Minister promoted collaboration in digital infrastructure such as UPI and the integration of Ayurveda.advertisementAs India prepares to assume the Brics leadership in 2026, PM Modi's leadership at the summit has cemented its image as a global advocate against terrorism and a proponent of equitable governance. While challenges remain, especially with China's contradictory actions, the summit outcomes marked a strong endorsement of India's priorities.- Ends
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