In a recent joint statement, the foreign ministers of the Brics (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) member states expressed their appreciation for relevant proposals of mediation and good offices aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict. The statement highlighted India’s support for efforts to end the conflict, emphasizing its belief in finding a way forward through diplomacy and dialogue.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, stated on Friday that India has always supported mediation efforts and welcomes any initiative that works towards finding a diplomatic solution. While addressing whether the joint statement endorsed a specific peace plan proposed by China, Bagchi refrained from characterizing it as a mediation effort. Nevertheless, he reiterated India’s commitment to mediation and the importance of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving conflicts.
The joint statement issued after the Brics foreign ministers’ meeting in Cape Town also emphasized the need for the full and effective implementation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative and a memorandum of understanding between Russia and the UN Secretariat on promoting Russian food products and fertilizers to world markets. The ministers underscored the importance of ensuring that grains and fertilizers continue to reach those most in need in the region.
Additionally, the joint statement called for reforms of the principal organs of the United Nations, including the Security Council, to enhance their ability to address global challenges effectively. It highlighted the significance of Brazil, India, and South Africa in global affairs, along with their aspiration to play a greater role within the UN framework.
At a time when the Group of Seven (G7) has sought to address Russia’s invasion of Ukraine at the Group of Twenty (G20), the Brics foreign ministers emphasized the importance of the G20 as the premier multilateral forum for economic cooperation. They underlined the need for joint efforts to find solutions to global challenges.
The joint statement further reiterated the Brics states’ strong condemnation of all forms of terrorism. The member countries reaffirmed their commitment to combating the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing networks, and safe havens. The ministers stressed the need for a comprehensive approach by the international community to effectively curb terrorist activities, which pose a serious threat. They also rejected double standards in countering terrorism and extremism conducive to terrorism.
The Brics joint statement signifies the collective commitment of the member countries to support peaceful resolutions of conflicts and promote dialogue as a means to achieve lasting solutions. India’s endorsement of mediation efforts and its belief in diplomacy and dialogue as crucial tools for resolving the Ukraine conflict demonstrate its proactive stance on international peace and stability.
As the world watches the developments in Ukraine closely, the Brics grouping’s joint statement adds weight to the calls for peaceful negotiations and reinforces the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges effectively.
