'We support diplomacy and dialogue, not war': PM Modi at BRICS plenary session

PM Modi at the plenary session of the 16th BRICS Summit. (Representational Image)

Issuing a strong statement during the ongoing plenary session of the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia,  Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined the grouping's (BRICS) commitment to dialogue and diplomacy to resolve global challenges.

In line with his interaction with the Russian President, Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, the PM said: "The group's approach must remain people centric. We have to tell the world BRICS is not divisive and that we support dialogue and diplomacy, and not war."

Speaking at a closed-door plenary, the PM emphasised on the challenges facing the BRICS grouping - which began with Brazil, China, and South Africa, but now also includes Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. He underlined some of the "pressing challenges" member countries, such as military conflict and the resulting economic crises.

The Prime Minister also referred to other threats-- like climate change and terrorism, and said, "Preventing inflation, ensuring food, energy, health, and water security are matters of priority for all countries in the world. And new challenges have emerged, like cyber frauds..."

During his opening address, Russian President Vladimir Putin, said that the formation of a "multipolar world order" is in progress and irreversible. Addressing leaders from countries including India and China, he described this transformation as dynamic.

The Prime Minister also batted for concerted global efforts to deal with terrorism and that there must not be any "double standards" in fighting the menace.

PM Modi also charted how BRICS is an abode to several expectations and the impact it can have on issues like terrorism and climate change. He noted that the intergovernmental organization is not a 'divisive' but a 'public interest' group.

"In order to counter terrorism and terror financing, we need the single-minded, firm support of all. There is no place for double standards on this serious matter. "We need to take active steps to stop the radicalisation of youth in our countries. We must work together on the long pending matter in the UN of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism," he said.