PM Modi opens 2026 BRICS Summit in India
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the 2026 BRICS Summit in India. The two-day summit is being attended by world leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. In his opening address, PM Modi emphasized India's "people-centric and humanity-first approach" during its BRICS chairmanship with a focus on resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability.
Milestone
'20th anniversary of BRICS is a historic milestone'
PM Modi described this year's summit as a "historic milestone," marking the 20th anniversary of BRICS.
He said, "In human life, the age of 20 marks the beginning of a new phase of maturity and responsibility."
He stressed that BRICS has developed a unique identity on the global stage over two decades and emphasized respect for different perspectives and consensus-based progress.
Reform call
Reform in UN Security Council can't be delayed anymore: Modi
The Prime Minister also called for reforms in global governance, especially the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
He said, "Reform in UNSC cannot be delayed anymore." He urged the Global South to become rule-shapers instead of rule-takers.
PM Modi proposed a BRICS continuity and implementation mechanism to follow up on initiatives and outcomes.
Representation
Global South must become rule-shapers instead of rule-takers: PM
The Prime Minister also stressed greater representation of Global South countries in global bodies and financial institutions.
He said, "Ensuring equal participation in determining the global rules of the future is extremely important."
PM Modi emphasized that emerging technologies like AI, cyberspace, and biotechnology are shaping future opportunities and rules.
He proposed transforming the Global South into rule-shapers through BRICS by providing young diplomats with negotiation skills and legal expertise.