BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meet: Growing expectation for BRICS to play ‘constructive, stabilising role’ amid global uncertainty, says S Jaishankar

In his opening address at the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday, May 14, highlighted that there was a growing expectation among emerging markets and developing nations that BRICS will play a “constructive and stabilising role” amid global uncertainty and economic challenges.

The BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is taking place at the Bharat Mandapam in the national capital under India’s 2026 chairship of the expanded grouping.

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“India’s chairship appreciates your support, which has contributed to the steady progress of our work,” Jaishankar said.

On the current global situation, Jaishankar said the meeting takes place at a time of significant changes and instability in international relations.

“We meet at a time of considerable flux in international relations, ongoing conflicts, economic uncertainties, and challenges in trade, technology and climate are shaping the global landscape,” he said.

“There is a growing expectation, particularly from emerging markets and developing countries, that BRICS will play a constructive and stabilising role,” he added.

Further, the External Affairs Minister emphasised the importance of the ongoing deliberations and said these offer an opportunity to reflect on major global and regional developments, besides providing an opportunity to explore practical methods to strengthen cooperation among member nations.

“In this background, our discussions today are an opportunity to reflect on global and regional developments and to consider practical ways to strengthen our cooperation,” he said.

“Many countries face challenges in energy, food, fertiliser, and health security, as well as access to finance. BRICS can help them respond more effectively. Economic resilience is also key. Reliable supply chains and diversified markets are its essential components. We must focus on both,” Jaishankar added.

While addressing climate-related concerns, he said that climate change continues to remain an urgent global issue that requires collective attention. “Climate change remains a pressing concern. Our discussions must advance sustainable development while advancing principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities,” he stated.

Also, Jaishankar underlined the growing impact of technological advancements on the global order stating that such developments should be used to promote good governance and inclusive growth.

“Peace and security issues remain central to the global order. Recent conflicts only underline the importance of dialogue and diplomacy,” he said.

“As Chair, I thank each delegation for its presence and for its continued commitment to strengthening cooperation within the BRICS framework. All of us remain in close and regular contact through bilateral and multilateral engagements. Gathering today for the BRICS meeting is a special occasion. It allows us to exchange perspectives and encourages us to develop convergences. In this complicated and uncertain world, that is of ever-greater importance,” he noted.