India Pushes for Inclusive Global Trade at BRICS Summit
India, led by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, has been actively pushing for a more inclusive global trade system and the democratization of manufacturing. This was evident at the recent BRICS Leaders' Summit, held in New Delhi, where leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa discussed these issues.
Jaishankar stressed the need for a stronger, more representative multilateral system, highlighting institutional gridlocks at the UN. He warned against using tariffs and restrictions as political leverage, advocating for trade not to be held hostage to geopolitical concerns.
He emphasized the importance of reimagining global supply chains to make them more resilient, reliable, and shorter. Jaishankar tied global conflicts and maritime insecurities to trade disruptions, underscoring the need for peaceful conflict resolution to protect livelihoods.
Jaishankar called for greater focus on climate justice, highlighting India-led initiatives promoting sustainable growth. India advocated for special treatment, inclusivity, and transparency for developing countries in global trade. Jaishankar acknowledged the unsettled world order due to issues like the Covid-19 pandemic, conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, climate volatility, and stalled progress on Sustainable Development Goals.
At a time of global economic uncertainty, India has urged the international community to move away from protectionist instincts and work together to build a reliable and inclusive trading system. Its advocacy for fairness, resilience, and transparency in global trade was prominent at the BRICS Leaders' Summit.
