Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with global leaders, participated in the traditional family photo session at the 17th BRICS Summit on Sunday. The photo op took place at the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, marking a symbolic moment of unity and cooperation among member nations.
The image featured Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and leaders from seven other BRICS nations standing alongside PM Modi. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend the summit, which was hosted by Brazil as the current chair of the group.
Stressing upon the significance of the gathering, PM Modi said that BRICS remains a powerful force for global good and economic cooperation. He stated that the family photo reaffirmed the collective commitment to closer collaboration and inclusive growth.
Modi also addressed a key session on ‘Peace and Security and Reform of Global Governance’ at the ongoing summit, where he underscored the urgent need for greater inclusion of the Global South in international decision-making.
He emphasised that the voice of the Global South is more vital than ever and called for global institutions to offer fair and adequate representation to these countries. “For their own credibility and effectiveness, it’s essential that global institutions reflect the realities of today’s world,” he said.
Highlighting longstanding concerns, PM Modi added, “The Global South has often been subjected to double standards. Their priorities have been sidelined. On critical matters such as climate finance, sustainable development, and access to technology, they’ve mostly received symbolic support rather than real action.”
The summit, hosted by Brazil from July 7 to July 9, saw leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia coming together during the event.
Ahead of the family photo, PM Modi also had a catch-up with South African President Ramaphosa.
“Good catching up with my friend, President Ramaphosa of South Africa!” PM Modi stated in another post on X.
Earlier, PM Modi shook hands and shared a hug with Brazilian President Lula as he arrived for the 17th BRICS Summit.
“Grateful to President Lula for hosting this year’s BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro. BRICS remains a powerful force for economic cooperation and global good,” PM Modi wrote on X.
During the 17th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, Prime Minister Modi will exchange views on key global issues, including peace and security, strengthening multilateralism, responsible use of artificial intelligence, climate action, global health, and economic and financial matters.
(With inputs from agencies)
