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BRICS joint statement urges West Asia de-escalation, trade reform
BRICS countries released a shared statement about several important world issues.
They asked countries in West Asia to stop fighting and use talks and diplomacy instead.
They also condemned a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 people.
The countries said terrorism is wrong no matter who commits it or why.
They criticized tariffs and other trade restrictions because these can make it harder for countries to buy and sell goods.
They called for changes to international organizations so developing countries have a stronger voice.
The members also said civilians and nuclear facilities must be protected during conflicts.
They agreed to cooperate on artificial intelligence while trying to make it safe and useful.
BRICS members called for dialogue and diplomacy to reduce escalating tensions in West Asia.
The 11-member grouping condemned the April 22, 2025, terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 people.
Members warned that unilateral tariffs, non-tariff measures and protectionism threaten global trade and supply chains.
The declaration urged reforms to global governance and financial institutions to increase representation for the Global South.
The statement also called for civilian protection, respect for sovereignty, and safeguards for peaceful nuclear facilities.
- Who
- The 11 BRICS members, including Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
- What
- The group issued a unanimous joint statement on West Asia, terrorism, trade restrictions, global governance and artificial intelligence.
- Where
- New Delhi.
- When
- On Saturday, the first day of the two-day 2026 BRICS Leadership Summit under India's presidency.
- Why
- To call for de-escalation in West Asia, condemn terrorism, address trade disruptions and advocate reforms to global institutions.
Key facts
- BRICS membership
- The grouping has 11 members.
- Global population
- BRICS members account for about half of the world's population.
- Global GDP
- The group accounts for about 40% of global gross domestic product.
- Pahalgam attack
- The April 22, 2025, attack in Jammu and Kashmir killed 26 people and injured many others.
- Trade position
- Members said unilateral tariffs and non-tariff measures are inconsistent with World Trade Organization rules.
- Institutional reform
- The declaration called for reforms to the Bretton Woods institutions, including the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.
- Artificial intelligence
- Members supported greater access to AI resources alongside safety, security, inclusiveness and reliability.
Quotes
Brics member-nations
Countries participating in the Brics joint statement
“Furthermore, we urge to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in accordance with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations in their entirety and interconnectedness, including respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the states.”
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“We voice serious concerns about the rise of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures which distort trade and are inconsistent with WTO (World Trade Organization) rules.”
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