2 hrs ago

Sookal Urges BRICS Leadership on Conflict, Trade and Global Governance

Anil Sookal is South Africa’s representative in India.

He said the BRICS countries should help countries solve conflicts peacefully.

He also wants international organizations to give more power and representation to developing countries.

Sookal said wars and disagreements can make food and energy more expensive.

He believes India is trusted by both richer and developing countries.

He said India and China should cooperate even though they may sometimes disagree.

Sookal also said countries in BRICS are using their own currencies more often in trade.

He criticized the United States for excluding South Africa from recent G20 meetings.

Key facts

BRICS summit: The 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit is being held in New Delhi.
South Africa’s expectations: South Africa wants stronger positions on food security, energy security and dialogue to resolve conflicts.
Global South share: Sookal said the Global South accounts for 85 percent of the global community.
UN reform: Sookal called for reform of the United Nations and its Security Council, citing limited African and Latin American representation.
India’s projected growth: Sookal said India is expected to grow by about 6.5 percent, compared with roughly 1 percent growth in Europe.
Dollar share: He said the dollar’s share of the IMF basket of currencies fell from about 80 percent to 57 percent.
G20 exclusion: Sookal said South Africa has not been invited to United States-led G20 proceedings since December 2025.

indianexpress.com · 2 hrs ago