Global South Still Getting Token Gestures on Climate and Development, Says PM Modi at BRICS Summit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday strongly criticised the continued marginalisation of the Global South, saying it has been offered little more than symbolic gestures on critical issues like climate finance, sustainable development, and technology access.

Speaking at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, PM Modi said the Global South remains a victim of double standards — particularly in areas of development, resource distribution, and global security.

“The countries of the Global South are often promised a seat at the table but are rarely given a real voice,” he said, addressing leaders of the expanded BRICS bloc. Notably absent from the summit were Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Reaffirming India’s commitment to international cooperation, Modi stressed that New Delhi remains dedicated to playing a constructive role alongside other BRICS nations. “India has always considered it its duty to rise above narrow self-interest and work for the larger good of humanity,” he added.

On BRICS Expansion

Speaking on the recent enlargement of the BRICS grouping, Modi said the inclusion of new countries reflects the forum’s ability to evolve with the times. “The addition of new friends is proof that BRICS is a dynamic institution, not static,” he noted.

Originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS expanded in 2024 to welcome Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. Indonesia officially joined in 2025, further broadening the coalition’s global footprint.

Summit Highlights

PM Modi also joined fellow leaders for the traditional BRICS family photo, which featured Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and representatives from the newly expanded member states. The moment symbolised a growing alliance committed to multipolarity and cooperation amid shifting global dynamics.

Modi’s remarks came during the fourth leg of his ongoing five-nation diplomatic tour — his longest such visit in a decade. Prior to Brazil, he visited Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Argentina, underscoring India’s push to deepen engagement with both the Global South and emerging powers.