Congress Seeks Strategic Clarity, Stronger Global South Role for India at BRICS

NEW DELHI, Sep 12 : The Congress on Saturday urged the Narendra Modi government to use India's chairmanship of BRICS to demonstrate strategic autonomy, diplomatic credibility and stronger leadership of the Global South.

In a statement issued on the occasion of the 18th BRICS Summit, the Congress said India should work with member countries to promote an equitable and balanced global order amid geopolitical tensions, economic challenges and conflicts.

The party called for stronger South-South cooperation and urged the government to rebuild confidence among developing countries through “consistent and consequential action”.

The Congress also raised concerns over India's diplomatic response to conflicts in West Asia and called for greater support to BRICS members facing diplomatic pressures.

On the economic front, the party sought better market access for Indian goods and services, removal of trade barriers and stronger supply-chain cooperation among BRICS countries. It also urged operationalisation of the Contingent Reserve Arrangement.

The Congress called for tangible progress on commitments made at the 2021 BRICS Summit, including securing support for India's candidature for permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council.

The party also urged the Prime Minister to brief the country on the outcome of the summit and said India should use BRICS to act as a credible bridge between the Global South and Global North.

The Congress said India's BRICS leadership should combine national interests with strategic autonomy, multilateral cooperation and a commitment to a fairer global order.