"BRICS" Warns of Nuclear Threats and Unilateral Trade Restrictions

New Delhi (Agencies): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the leaders of the BRICS group adopted a joint final statement at the conclusion of their 18th summit held in the Indian capital, New Delhi, under the theme “Building Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability.” Member states expressed deep concern over escalating nuclear threats and armed conflicts, calling for strengthening the nuclear non-proliferation regime and ensuring the peaceful use of technology and space. The statement also criticized the rise of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures that distort global trade, emphasizing the importance of developing cross-border payment systems and the New Development Bank, alongside continuing efforts to establish a BRICS grain exchange and enhance energy security.

On the Arab and regional front, BRICS expressed grave concern over the catastrophic situation in the Gaza Strip, condemning attempts to politicize humanitarian aid provided to the Palestinian people. The group also reaffirmed its absolute rejection of any unilateral measures aimed at altering the legal and historical status of occupied Jerusalem. Leaders called on Israel to comply with the agreed conditions with Lebanon and to immediately withdraw all its forces from all Lebanese territory, while reiterating their firm commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and calling for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan to address the risks of terrorism and humanitarian crises.

The joint statement was adopted on the first day of the annual BRICS leaders’ summit in New Delhi, as the United States and Iran resumed mutual strikes following a cessation of hostilities for most of August. The “New Delhi Declaration” stated: “We express our deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in the Middle East… and call for the utmost restraint, avoiding actions that could further exacerbate the situation.” The statement also reaffirmed member states’ commitment to resolving international disputes peacefully “through dialogue, consultation, and diplomacy.”