Kazan, Russia — BRICS leaders convened on Wednesday in Kazan, culminating in the adoption of a comprehensive joint declaration addressing a spectrum of global issues, from United Nations reform to ongoing international conflicts.
The declaration encompasses 134 provisions, notably reaffirming the leaders’ support for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council. “We reaffirm our support for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council, with a view to making it more democratic, representative, effective and efficient,” the document states. This initiative aims to expand the representation of developing countries, enhancing the UN’s ability to respond to global challenges.
BRICS leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms, calling for the prompt adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism within the UN framework. They also emphasized the crucial role of the UN in the global governance of artificial intelligence, urging for responsible and inclusive policies.
Addressing global conflicts, the leaders expressed concern over the rise of violence and ongoing armed conflicts in various parts of the world. They reaffirmed their commitment to resolving disputes peacefully through diplomacy. Deep concern was voiced regarding the tensions in the Gaza Strip, with a call for an immediate ceasefire and cessation of all hostilities.
The declaration underscored the importance of establishing a sovereign and independent State of Palestine within the internationally recognized borders of June 1967. The leaders expressed support for Palestine’s full membership in the UN.
On the Ukrainian crisis, the BRICS nations recalled their national positions and noted with appreciation relevant proposals aimed at a peaceful settlement through diplomacy.
The leaders expressed grave concern over the harmful impact of illegal unilateral sanctions on the global economy, noting that such measures negatively affect economic growth, energy, and food security, exacerbating poverty worldwide.
In matters of space security, BRICS members stressed the need to prevent an arms race in outer space and called for the creation of an international document to ensure space remains a domain for peaceful purposes.
The declaration also outlined various economic initiatives designed to strengthen the role of developing countries in the global economy. The leaders called for reform of the Bretton Woods institutions to increase the contribution and representation of developing nations.
Welcoming the establishment of a new BRICS investment platform, they highlighted its potential to utilize the existing infrastructure of the New Development Bank to boost investment flows into BRICS countries and the Global South.
The leaders advocated for reforming the current international financial architecture to better meet global financial challenges, making it more inclusive and just.
Supporting Russia’s proposal, the BRICS nations agreed on the creation of a BRICS grain exchange, with the prospect of expanding the trading platform to include other agricultural sectors in the future.
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BRICS leaders adopt joint declaration following summit in Kazan
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