New Delhi: Hailing the recently concluded BRICS Summit as a major diplomatic triumph, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that India successfully managed to build consensus among nations despite deep global polarisation, ongoing wars, and stark international differences.
Addressing the media, Jaishankar highlighted that the summit was a strong testament to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “strong convening power.” He pointed out that the high-level event witnessed the participation of 32 delegations, comprising 11 member nations, 10 partner countries, four regional organisations, and seven international organisations.
The summit saw attendance from prominent global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Jaishankar noted that the inclusion of UN Secretary-General António Guterres and heads of other international bodies facilitated “very open and comfortable conversations” among the leaders.
Emphasising India’s diplomatic maneuvering, the External Affairs Minister remarked that the summit took place against the backdrop of a highly divided world grappling with two major conflicts and competing interests. “Even amidst this polarisation, we actually forged a consensus,” Jaishankar asserted.
He specifically pointed to the ongoing West Asia conflict, describing it as one of the most difficult issues on the table. Despite the complexities, he noted, the member nations successfully issued a unanimous statement appealing for peace, security, and stability in the region. Furthermore, the BRICS leaders advocated for the unhindered flow of global trade, supply chains, and energy, while stressing the urgent need to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
Outlining the core focus of the summit, Jaishankar said the primary agenda revolved around the economy, development, technology, and fiercely advocating for the interests of the Global South. “This was a very strong message that came across,” he stated.
The successful conclusion of the summit, Jaishankar noted, reflects India’s exceptional ability to bring countries together amidst rising international tensions, and highlights New Delhi’s growing role in shaping global economic discourse.