PM Modi at BRICS: Calls for Internal Reform, Condemns Terror Attack, Champions Global South Rights

7 July, 2025:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged BRICS to become a force for global cooperation and help create a truly multipolar world. Speaking at the Outreach Session of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Modi emphasized that the bloc must lead by example and meet the expectations of the Global South. Addressing the theme of ‘Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic-Financial Affairs and Artificial Intelligence,’ he pointed out that BRICS draws its strength from its diversity and the shared commitment of its members to a balanced and inclusive global order.

“The diversity of the BRICS group and our strong belief in multipolarity are our greatest strengths. We must consider how BRICS can guide the way toward a multipolar world in the future," the prime minister said. He stressed that to be taken seriously on the global stage, BRICS must first improve its internal systems. In a post on X, he stated, “First, we should focus on improving our own systems so that our credibility is increased when we call for reformed multilateralism. This is crucial since economic cooperation within BRICS has been steadily moving forward.”

“While approving projects through the BRICS New Development Banks (NDBs), we must focus on demand-driven decision-making, long-term financial sustainability, and maintaining a healthy credit rating,” he added.

Prime Minister Modi also noted that terrorism remains one of the biggest threats to global peace and stability. Without directly naming Pakistan, he condemned nations that shelter and support terror networks, stressing that these actions must be universally denounced. Modi thanked the international community for standing with India after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and urged BRICS members to take a strong stand against terrorism in all its forms.

In a joint declaration at the summit in Rio de Janeiro, the leaders called terrorism “criminal and unjustifiable” no matter the motive or the perpetrators. 

“We express strong condemnation of any acts of terrorism as criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, whenever, wherever, and by whomever committed. We strongly condemn the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, during which at least 26 people were killed and many others injured. We reaffirm our commitment to fighting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing, and safe havens,” the declaration stated.

Highlighting the need to meet the expectations of the Global South, Prime Minister Modi said that the Global South has received little more than token gestures regarding climate finance, sustainable development, and access to technology. He pointed out that the Global South has been a victim of double standards in development, resource distribution, and security-related issues.

Speaking to the global leaders, the prime minister mentioned that India is fully committed to making constructive contributions, alongside BRICS countries, on all issues.

PM Modi also took part in the traditional family photo session with other leaders at the BRICS Summit. The family photo represented a meaningful moment of unity and collaboration among the member countries.