BRICS leaders condemn unilateralism, West Asia conflict in joint statement

BRICS member states have adopted a joint statement at their summit expressing serious concern over geopolitical tensions, particularly the conflict in West Asia, while taking aim at what they describe as unilateral approaches to international relations.

The statement, released following high-level discussions among the five-nation bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, criticised protectionist trade measures and unilateral sanctions without explicitly naming the United States. The leaders called for multilateral approaches to resolving global challenges and emphasised respect for international law and the United Nations framework.

The BRICS declaration reflects growing frustration among major developing economies over what they perceive as Western-led policies that undermine global stability. The statement underscored the bloc's commitment to fostering a more equitable international order while advocating for the interests of emerging markets and developing nations.

The joint statement comes amid heightened global tensions, including escalating conflicts in the Middle East and continued trade disputes between major powers. BRICS members have increasingly used their summits to coordinate positions on contentious international issues and challenge existing power structures in global governance.

The declaration is expected to shape the bloc's diplomatic strategy in coming months as BRICS continues to position itself as a counterweight to Western-dominated international institutions and policies.