Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the 17th BRICS Summit 2025, made a powerful case for unified global action against terrorism and emphasized the urgent need for reform of global institutions to reflect the realities of the 21st century. In a keynote address during the session on Peace and Security, the Prime Minister urged BRICS member countries to rise above political hesitation and act decisively against terrorism in all its forms.

Terrorism Is a Threat to Humanity, Not Just One Nation: PM Modi

PM Modi described terrorism as the “most serious threat to global peace” and stressed that there should be “no hesitation in imposing sanctions on terrorists”. Referring to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 civilians, he termed it a “brutal and cowardly assault on India’s soul, identity, and dignity.”

He emphasized, “When we delay action based on who is attacked or where it happened, we are not just betraying a nation—we are betraying humanity.”

Without naming any specific country, PM Modi indirectly addressed China’s historical resistance at the UN Security Council in designating certain Pakistan-based terrorists. His message was clear: terrorists and their sponsors must not be shielded under diplomatic pretexts.

PM Modi’s Key Message on Terrorism:

• “Sanctions must be imposed on terrorists without delay.”

• “Selective response to terrorism is a betrayal of humanity.”

• “No country should silently support terror for political gain.”

He thanked nations that supported India post the Pahalgam attack and reiterated that consistent global solidarity is the only way to counter terror effectively.

 Strengthening BRICS Role in a Multipolar World

During a session on Strengthening Multilateralism, Economic Affairs, and Artificial Intelligence, PM Modi stressed that BRICS must take the lead in shaping a multipolar and inclusive world order.

Highlighting the limitations of 20th-century global institutions, he pointed out that bodies like the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), World Bank, IMF, and WTO must be urgently reformed to suit 21st-century realities.

“Institutions designed for a post-WWII world no longer represent the diversity and needs of today. Reform is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity,” PM Modi said.

 Science, Innovation & AI: India’s Vision for the Future

As part of India’s vision for a progressive BRICS alliance, PM Modi proposed setting up a Science and Research Repository within BRICS to strengthen collaboration in critical technologies and innovation, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI).

He added that India will host an AI Impact Summit in 2026 to bring together global stakeholders and work towards responsible AI governance.

“We’re working with the mantra of ‘AI for All’. From agriculture to governance, AI is transforming our lives. It must be used responsibly with global standards to avoid misuse,” he said.

 Bilateral Diplomacy on the Sidelines

PM Modi also held several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit with leaders from:

• Malaysia: Discussed economic and strategic cooperation with PM Anwar Ibrahim.

• Vietnam: Strengthened Indo-Pacific collaboration with PM Phạm Minh Chính.

• Cuba: Engaged with President Miguel Díaz-Canel on development partnerships.

These meetings reflect India’s proactive approach in building regional alliances and expanding its global influence through diplomacy.

 Climate Leadership: India Gets Backing for COP33 Bid

In a significant boost to India’s global standing, BRICS nations unanimously endorsed India’s candidacy to host the 33rd Conference of the Parties (COP33) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2028.

The BRICS declaration reaffirmed members’ commitment to:

• The Paris Agreement

• Equitable climate action

• Collective global efforts to mitigate climate change

“We stress our commitment to uphold multilateralism as necessary to address climate challenges threatening our shared planet,” the joint statement said.

India’s bid for COP33 highlights its emerging leadership in global climate negotiations, especially on behalf of developing nations.

 BRICS Summit 2025: Major Highlights

🔹 Anti-Terrorism Stance: PM Modi calls for unified sanctions and rejects selective action.
🔹 Institutional Reform: Push to modernize UNSC, WTO, IMF for a multipolar world.
🔹 AI for All: Announcement of India’s AI Impact Summit in 2026.
🔹 Science & Innovation: Proposal for a BRICS Research Repository on critical minerals and technology.
🔹 Climate Diplomacy: Support for India’s COP33 hosting bid and alignment with Paris Agreement goals.
🔹 Bilateral Engagements: Strategic meetings with Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cuba.
🔹 Multilateralism & Global Governance: Emphasis on inclusivity and shared leadership.

The 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro marked a defining moment in India’s diplomatic outreach. PM Modi’s call for a principled and united global stand against terrorism, coupled with forward-looking proposals on AI, science, and institutional reform, reinforced India’s vision for a fairer, more resilient global order.

As India prepares to chair the BRICS grouping in 2026, these initiatives are expected to shape the next phase of global conversations—from combating terrorism to promoting responsible innovation and climate resilience.