Full Breakdown
BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting: A Unified Stand Against Protectionism and Terrorism
9/29/2025, 2:20:44 AM
Core Event: BRICS Responds to Global Challenges
During the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, the BRICS Foreign Ministers convened to address pressing global issues, including rising protectionism, tariff volatility, and terrorism. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar of India, as the current chair, emphasized the need for BRICS to defend the multilateral trading system and advocate for reforms in international institutions.
Key Discussions and Outcomes
Jaishankar highlighted the impact of increasing protectionism on global trade, particularly referencing the recent imposition of 50% tariffs by the United States on Indian goods, which he described as coercive. He stated, “As rising protectionism, tariff volatility and non-tariff barriers impact trade flows, BRICS must defend the multilateral trading system.” The ministers collectively condemned these trade-restrictive measures, warning that they threaten to disrupt global supply chains and exacerbate economic disparities.
The meeting also addressed the urgent need for comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The ministers expressed unanimous support for India and Brazil's aspirations for a more significant role within the UN framework. Jaishankar noted that “BRICS must pursue with vigor a comprehensive reform of the principal organs of the United Nations, especially the Security Council.”
Criticism & Opposition: Calls for Action
Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty called for stronger coordination among BRICS members to tackle global challenges, particularly emphasizing the need for a more equitable global economic order. He urged the establishment of mechanisms to support developing countries in managing debt burdens and securing financing for sustainable development.
Ethiopia’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadera Abera, echoed these sentiments, advocating for joint action to address humanitarian crises and armed conflicts that disproportionately affect developing nations. He stated that BRICS has a historic opportunity to foster peace and advance sustainable development goals.
Official Statements & Responses
In a joint statement, the BRICS ministers condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in 26 fatalities. They reaffirmed their commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and rejected double standards in counterterrorism efforts. The statement emphasized that both terrorists and their supporters should be held accountable under national or international law.
Verbatim Quotes
- “when multilateralism is under stress, BRICS has stood firm as a strong voice of reason and constructive change.” — S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister of India
- “BRICS has a historic role to play in advancing peace, reforming global institutions, and in shaping a fairer, more secure world for the Global South” — Hadera Abera, State Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia
What's Next: Future Initiatives
Looking ahead, India’s upcoming chairmanship of BRICS in 2026 will focus on critical areas such as food and energy security, climate change, and digital transformation. The ministers agreed to continue their collaboration on joint projects across various sectors, including technology and innovation, to enhance the bloc's collective influence on the global stage.
