Modi’s Call for Unity Against Terrorism at the 16th BRICS Summit
On October 23, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful address at the 16th BRICS Summit, emphasizing the urgent need for a unified global approach to combat terrorism. As the world grapples with escalating conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, Modi’s message resonated with a call for diplomacy over warfare, stating, “We support dialogue and diplomacy, not war.” This statement encapsulated India’s commitment to peaceful resolutions in an increasingly turbulent geopolitical landscape.
The Urgency of Addressing Terrorism
In his address, Modi highlighted the critical need to tackle terror financing and violence, underscoring that there is "no room for double standards" in addressing these pressing issues. He urged BRICS nations to take proactive measures to prevent the radicalization of youth, a demographic often targeted by extremist ideologies. Modi advocated for the completion of the comprehensive convention on international terrorism at the United Nations, signaling India’s intent to lead the charge in establishing a robust international framework to combat terrorism.
Bilateral Engagement with China
The summit also served as a backdrop for significant diplomatic engagements, notably Modi’s scheduled bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This meeting marks the first formal discussion between the two leaders in five years and comes on the heels of a recent truce that has allowed Indian and Chinese forces to resume patrols along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. This development is crucial, as it effectively ends a four-year military standoff, paving the way for improved relations between the two neighboring countries.
Addressing Global Challenges
Beyond terrorism, Modi’s address touched on a range of pressing global challenges, including inflation, food security, and cyber threats. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing health security and ensuring sustainable access to water and energy resources. “Preventing inflation and ensuring food and energy security are matters of priority for all countries in the world,” he noted, reflecting the interconnected nature of these issues in the current global context.
Advocating for Institutional Reforms
Modi also called on BRICS nations to collectively advocate for reforms in global institutions such as the UN Security Council and the World Trade Organization (WTO). He stressed the importance of reforming these institutions rather than replacing them, asserting that a balanced approach is essential for addressing the complexities of contemporary global governance. This call for reform reflects a broader desire among BRICS nations to enhance their influence in international decision-making processes.
Navigating Technological Threats
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, Modi addressed the rise of cybersecurity threats and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. He highlighted the need for global regulations to mitigate risks associated with deepfakes, disinformation, and other emerging challenges. “In this age of technology, new challenges such as cybersecurity, deepfakes, and disinformation have emerged. There are high expectations for BRICS in this context,” he stated, signaling the group’s potential role in shaping a secure digital future.
Conclusion: A Commitment to Collaboration
The 16th BRICS Summit, gathering leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, underscored the group’s commitment to addressing contemporary global challenges through collaboration and mutual support. Modi’s address not only highlighted the urgency of combating terrorism but also set the stage for a broader dialogue on pressing issues such as economic stability, institutional reform, and technological governance. As the world navigates an increasingly complex landscape, the call for unity and cooperation among BRICS nations may prove vital in fostering a more secure and prosperous future for all.