The Economic Times (India)
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Inside the 140-point New Delhi Declaration
BRICS leaders on Saturday adopted the New Delhi Declaration, setting out an 18-point agenda focused on strengthening the voice of the Global South, reforming global governance and expanding cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries.The declaration was adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, among other leaders and representatives attending the two-day summit.The document, issued under India's 2026 BRICS Chairship, reaffirms the grouping's commitment to sovereign equality, solidarity, inclusiveness, multilateralism and consensus. It calls for stronger cooperation across the political and security, economic and financial, and cultural and people-to-people pillars of BRICS.Also read: BRICS at 20 enters coming-of-age phase, PM Modi calls for ambitious agenda for next two decadesA major focus of the declaration is greater representation for Emerging Markets and Developing Countries (EMDCs) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in global decision-making. The document backs reform of the United Nations, including the Security Council, and calls for changes to the Bretton Woods institutions so that their governance better reflects the current global economy. It also backs the aspirations of Brazil and India to play a greater role in the UN, including its Security Council.Here's the full transcriptWe, the Leaders of BRICS countries, met in New Delhi, India, from 12 to 13 September 2026 for the XVIII BRICS Summit held under the theme: "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability".We reaffirm our commitment to the BRICS spirit of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, collaboration and consensus. Building on two decades of BRICS, we further commit ourselves to strengthening cooperation in the expanded BRICS under the three pillars of political and security, economic and financial, cultural and people-to-people cooperation, and to enhancing our strategic partnership for the benefit of our people through the promotion of peace, a more representative, fairer international order, a reinvigorated and reformed multilateral system, sustainable development and inclusive growth.We recognise the valuable contribution of Partner countries to BRICS cooperation. We underscore our strong belief that advancing the BRICS partnership with Emerging Markets and Developing Countries (EMDCs) will further contribute to strengthening the spirit of solidarity and international cooperation for the benefit of all. We reaffirm our commitment to fostering inclusive, mutually beneficial and development-oriented partnership with Partner countries. We encourage their increasing participation in BRICS engagements and practical cooperation in areas of shared interest.We commend India for hosting the Outreach/BRICS Plus Dialogue segment of the 18th BRICS Summit, which injects new impetus to strengthen international cooperation and solidarity.We commend the significant progress achieved under India's BRICS Chairship in 2026, under the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability", which reflects our shared commitment to strengthening BRICS cooperation in addressing common challenges with a balanced, practical, actionable, inclusive, development-oriented and people-centered approach. We reaffirm our commitment to advancing cooperation on the thematic priorities, particularly through strengthening capacities, promoting innovation, and advancing sustainable development and resilience.We welcome the convening of over four hundred meetings and engagements at the level of Ministers, Parliamentarians, Heads of Agencies, Officials, Experts, Businesses and People in thirty cities across India under the BRICS cooperation framework, which have contributed to strengthening the BRICS strategic partnership. We welcome the progress made in enhancing collective resilience, promoting innovation-driven economic growth, advancing sustainable development, deepening people-to-people exchanges, and amplifying the voice of BRICS for greater representation in global governance.Also read: BRICS Summit in New Delhi: The grand finale is India's moment to navigate a bigger, and more divided blocInclusive Global Governance and Strengthening MultilateralismOn the landmark occasion of the 20th anniversary of BRICS, we reiterate our commitment to reforming and improving global governance by promoting a more just, equitable, agile, effective, efficient, responsive, representative, legitimate, democratic and accountable international and multilateral system in the spirit of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits. Bearing in mind the need to adapt the current architecture of international relations to better reflect the contemporary realities, we reiterate our commitment to strengthening multilateralism and multipolarity and to upholding international law, including the Purposes and Principles of the Charter of the United Nations (UN) in their entirety and interconnectedness in a balanced and inclusive manner, as its indispensable cornerstone, and the central role of the UN in the international system in which sovereign states cooperate to maintain peace and security, advance sustainable development, ensure the promotion and protection of democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms for all, and promote cooperation based on the spirit of solidarity, mutual respect, justice and equality while respecting national circumstances, diversity of national systems and development pathways, with the aim to build a brighter shared future for the international community based on mutually beneficial cooperation.We reiterate our commitment to ensuring greater and more meaningful participation and representation of EMDCs, as well as Least Developed Countries (LDCs), especially from Africa, Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean, in global decision-making processes and structures and making them better attuned to contemporary realities. We also call for achieving equitable geographical representation in the Secretariat of the UN and other international organizations in a timely manner, particularly by addressing the persistent underrepresentation of developing countries, including at senior and decision-making levels, as well as increasing the role and share of women, especially from EMDCs, at all levels of leadership and responsibilities in these organizations. We stress the need for the selection and appointment process of the UN executive heads and senior positions to be guided by the principles of transparency and inclusiveness, and carried out in accordance with all the provisions of Article 101 of the UN Charter, with due regard for recruiting staff on a geographical basis as wide as possible and the increased participation of women, and adhere to the general rule that there should be no monopoly on senior posts in the UN system by nationals of any State or group of States. We also deplore attempts, including by deliberately withholding assessed contributions, to unilaterally undermine the work of global multilateral institutions and impair the implementation of their respective mandates.In light of the ongoing selection process of the next Secretary-General of the UN and bearing in mind the relevant provisions of the UN Charter, we note that no woman has ever been elected for the role of Secretary General, and only one national from Latin America and Caribbean, and only two nationals from Africa and Asia each have ever occupied this position.We agree that, in the context of the contemporary realities of the multipolar world, it is crucial that developing countries strengthen their efforts to promote dialogue and consultations for more just and equitable global governance and mutually beneficial relations among nations. We acknowledge that multipolarity can expand opportunities for EMDCs to develop their constructive potential and enjoy universally beneficial, inclusive, sustainable and equitable economic globalization and cooperation. We highlight the importance of the Global South as a driver for positive change, especially in the face of significant international challenges, including deepening geopolitical tensions, rapid economic downturns and technological changes, protectionist measures, migratory challenges, and climate change. BRICS countries will continue playing a pivotal role in voicing the concerns and priorities of the Global South, as well as promoting a more just, sustainable, inclusive, representative and stable international order based on international law.We welcome the adoption of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution 80/250 on the declaration of the trafficking of enslaved Africans and racialised chattel enslavement of Africans as the gravest crime against humanity. We advocate the prompt and full implementation of UNGA Resolution 79/115 of December 2024 in order to eradicate colonialism in all its forms and manifestations.We reiterate the need to intensify the fight against racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance as well as discrimination based on religion, faith or belief, and all their contemporary forms around the world, including the alarming trends of rising hate speech, disinformation and misinformation.Recognizing the 2023 Johannesburg-II Leaders' Declaration, we reiterate our support for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council, with a view to making it more democratic, representative, effective and efficient, and to increase the representation of developing countries in the Council's memberships so that it can adequately respond to prevailing global challenges and support the legitimate aspirations of emerging and developing countries from Africa, Asia and Latin America, including BRICS countries, to play a greater role in international affairs, in particular in the UN, including its Security Council. We recognize the legitimate aspirations of African countries, as reflected in the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration. We stress that the UN Security Council reform is to lead to the amplified voice of the Global South. Recalling the 2022 Beijing and 2023 Johannesburg-II Leaders' Declarations, China and Russia, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, reiterate their support to the aspirations of Brazil and India to play a greater role in the UN, including its Security Council.We reiterate our commitment to provide the United Nations with all the required support it needs to discharge its mandate and achieve concrete progress. We should continue the work to revitalize the General Assembly and strengthen the Economic and Social Council. We look forward to the full implementation of the 2025 Review of the Peacebuilding architecture.We reaffirm the commitment to working tirelessly for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its far-reaching and people-centred Goals and targets in a balanced and integrated manner, in line with national policies and regulations, and recognize that eradicating poverty in all its forms and dimensions, including extreme poverty, is the greatest global challenge and an indispensable requirement for sustainable development. We further recognise the importance of promoting the 2030 Agenda in an innovative, coordinated, environmentally sound, open and shared manner. We take note of ongoing high-level discussions on global inequality and we recognize that inequality within and among countries is at the root of most challenges addressed by the 2030 Agenda, including by specifically addressing the drivers of inequality and prioritizing its reduction (SDG 10) in all its forms and dimensions. Expressing our resolve to act in a collective manner and take concrete steps to tackle inequality, we take note of the proposal of South Africa and Brazil to establish an international panel on inequality. We also look forward to close cooperation and substantive contribution of BRICS Countries to shaping the global agenda for the sustainable development beyond 2030.We recall 1955 Asian-African Conference in Bandung, Indonesia that proclaimed general principles, including equality, independence, non-intervention, and mutual benefit. We stress that the Bandung Spirit serves as a reference in the pursuit of a fairer, more inclusive, and representative multilateral system.With the growing share of EMDES in global output and growth, reform of global economic governance remains a consistent BRICS priority. We will continue to strengthen coordination among BRICS members to make international financial institutions more representative, transparent and accountable. We reiterate the urgent need to reform the Bretton Woods Institutions (BWI) to make them more agile, effective, credible, inclusive, fit for purpose, unbiased, accountable, and representative, to enhance their legitimacy. BWI governance structure should be reformed to reflect the transformation of the global economy since their establishment. The voice and representation of EMDES in the BWI must reflect their relative position in the global economy. We also reiterate our call for improved management procedures, including through a merit-based, inclusive and transparent selection process that would increase regional diversity and representation of EMDES in the leadership of the IMF and the World Bank.We reaffirm the BRICS Rio de Janeiro Vision for IMF Quota and Governance Reform and the need for a strong, quota-based and adequately resourced IMF at the centre of the global financial safety net to effectively support its members, particularly the most vulnerable countries. We urge entry into effect of the quota increases agreed under the 16th General Review of Quotas (GRQ) with no further delay and call for the development of approaches to meaningful quota realignment under the 17th GRQ at the earliest. We welcome the Diriyah Guiding Principles for Quota and Governance Reforms and reiterate that quota realignment should reflect countries' relative positions in the global economy, increase the quota and voting shares of EMDES and should not come at the expense of developing countries, while ensuring that a new, simple, and transparent quota formula protects the quota shares of the poorest members and guides but does not constrain access to Fund resources. We also believe that any voluntary financial contributions should not influence quota allocation, governance representation and voting power. In line with the BRICS Rio de Janeiro Vision for IMF Quota and Governance Reform, we stand ready to engage constructively with other IMF members to guarantee that meaningful quota share realignment and governance reforms are included in the 17th GRQ.We reaffirm that the 2025 World Bank Shareholding Review is a critical tool to strengthen multilateralism and enhance the legitimacy of the World Bank Group, as a better, bigger, and more effective development finance institution. In line with the Lima Principles, we reaffirm that BRICS countries should continue to advocate for the increased voice and representation of developing countries, underpinned by a shareholding realignment that corrects their historic underrepresentation.Recalling the 2026 Statement on Preserving and Revitalizing the Multilateral Trading System and 2025 BRICS Declaration on World Trade Organization Reform and Strengthening of the Multilateral Trading System, we reaffirm our unwavering support for reform of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and to strengthening a non-discriminatory, open, equitable, transparent, fair, inclusive, predictable and rules-based multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its core, while upholding the foundational principles, such as Most-Favoured-Nation Treatment and Special and Differential Treatment for developing members, particularly LDCs. We remain committed to active engagement in multilateral negotiations in Geneva, especially in the debates regarding the reform of the WTO. We will advance efforts and enhance coordination under the BRICS Informal Consultative Framework on the challenges undermining the effectiveness and credibility of the WTO and solutions to these challenges. We will ensure the implementation of the MC14 outcomes and continue to engage constructively towards the resolution of outstanding issues. We will engage constructively in the WTO reform to enhance the WTO's authority, effectiveness, inclusiveness, and relevance, and build an open world economy. In this regard, we recognise that it is important to identify appropriate pathways for plurilateral initiatives into the WTO legal framework including on development-oriented issues, and to explore the formulation of forward-looking rules in the WTO. We strongly advocate for the immediate restoration of an accessible, effective, fully functioning, two-tier binding WTO dispute settlement mechanism as a foundation for trust and predictability for all WTO members, and the appointment of new Appellate Body members without further delay. We look forward to working towards strengthening the organization through the necessary reform while upholding the foundational principles of the WTO and facilitating the negotiation process within the WTO framework, and to restoring the credibility of the multilateral trading system. Echoing the aspirations of the Global South to fully integrate into the multilateral trading system, we strongly support Ethiopia and Iran's bid for accession to the WTO. We acknowledge China for expanding its zero-tariff treatment to cover 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic ties.We note that the multilateral trading system has long been at a crossroads. The proliferation of trade-restrictive actions that are inconsistent with WTO rules, whether in the form of indiscriminate rising of tariffs and non-tariff measures, or protectionism under the guise of environmental objectives, threatens to further reduce global trade, disrupt global supply chains, and introduce uncertainty into international economic and trade activities, potentially exacerbating existing economic disparities and negatively affecting prospects for global economic development. We voice serious concerns about the rise of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures which distort trade and are inconsistent with WTO rules. We will work together to enhance the WTO's responsiveness to trade disruptions and the needs and priorities of emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs), as well as advance discussions on outstanding issues, and support balanced, inclusive and concrete outcomes that strengthen the multilateral trading system and enable it to better address evolving global challenges.We condemn the imposition of unilateral coercive measures that are contrary to international law, and reiterate that such measures, inter alia in the form of unilateral economic sanctions and secondary sanctions, have far-reaching negative implications for the human rights, including the rights to development, health and food security, of the general population of targeted states, disproportionally affecting the poor and people in vulnerable situations, deepening the digital divide and exacerbating environmental challenges. We call for the elimination of such unlawful measures, which undermine international law and the principles and purposes of the UN Charter. We reaffirm our opposition to unilateral coercive measures that are contrary to international law and the Charter of the United Nations, including non-UN Security Council authorized sanctions.International and Regional Peace and SecurityWe note the current global context of polarization and distrust and encourage global action to strengthen international peace and security. We call on the international community to respond to these challenges and associated security threats through politico-diplomatic measures to lower conflict potential and stress the need to engage in conflict prevention efforts, including through addressing their root causes. We underscore that security among all countries is indivisible and reiterate our commitment to the peaceful resolution of international disputes through dialogue, consultation and diplomacy. We encourage the active role of regional organizations in conflict prevention and resolution and support all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of crises. We highlight, in the context of international disputes, the importance of preventive diplomacy and mediation, with the consent of relevant parties, as essential tools to avoid crises and prevent their escalation, in accordance with the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter. In this regard, we agree to explore avenues for cooperation on the prevention of armed conflicts, UN peacekeeping missions, African Union peace support operations, and mediation and peace processes.We express concern about ongoing conflicts in many parts of the world and the current state of polarization and fragmentation in the international order. We express alarm at the current trend that has seen a critical increase in global military spending, to the detriment of the provision of adequate financing for development to developing countries. We advocate for a multilateral approach that respects diverse national viewpoints and positions on crucial global issues, including sustainable development, the eradication of hunger and poverty and contributing to the global response to climate change, while expressing deep concern over attempts to link security with the climate change agenda.We express concern about the growing risks of nuclear danger and conflict. We reiterate the need for invigorating the system of disarmament, arms control and non-proliferation and for preserving its integrity and effectiveness to achieve global stability and international peace and security. We stress the significant contribution of nuclear-weapon-free zones to the strengthening of the nuclear non-proliferation regime, reaffirm our support for and respect towards all existing nuclear-weapons free-zones and their associated assurances against the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons, and acknowledge the paramount importance of the efforts aiming at accelerating the implementation of the resolutions on the Establishment of a Zone Free of Nuclear Weapons and other Weapons of Mass Destruction in the Middle East, including the Conference convened pursuant to UN General Assembly Decision 73/546. We call on all invited parties to participate in this conference in good faith and engage with this effort constructively. We note the adoption of the UNGA Resolution 79/241 "Comprehensive study of the question of nuclear-weapon-free zones in all its aspects" as well as the successful conclusion of the study, which was adopted by the Group by consensus.We reiterate our commitment to the full implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) and subsequent resolutions and to the advancement of the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda. We further reiterate the importance of ensuring the full, equal, safe, and meaningful participation of women in decision-making at all levels of peace and security processes, including conflict prevention and resolution, humanitarian relief, mediation, peace operations, peacebuilding, and post-conflict reconstruction and development.Underlining the character of Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace, built on mutual respect, peaceful settlement of disputes and non-intervention, we express deep concern on the situation relating to Cuba due to the tightening of unilateral blockade measures against the country, their adverse effects on the Cuban economy, energy supplies and the worrying humanitarian impact on the Cuban people. In this regard, we reiterate the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial measures against Cuba in accordance with UNGA Resolution A/RES/80/4.We express deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in Middle East/West Asia and, recalling our respective national positions, call for exercising maximum restraint, as well as avoiding actions that could further aggravate the situation. Furthermore, we urge to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in accordance with the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations in their entirety and interconnectedness, including respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the States. We encourage increasing efforts, through dialogue and diplomacy, towards a long-term understanding that will contribute to lasting peace, security and stability in the region. We stress the need to work together to maintain smooth flow of global trade, supply chains and energy, in accordance with applicable international law.We express serious concern over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under full safeguards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in violation of international law and relevant resolutions of the IAEA. Nuclear safeguards, safety, and security must always be upheld, including in armed conflicts, to protect people and the environment from harm.We take note of the adoption of UNSC Resolution 2803. We call for the implementation of the relevant UNGA and UNSC Resolutions and urge all parties to ensure the maintenance of ceasefire and full and unhindered humanitarian access in the Gaza Strip. In this context, we express deep concern on the continued violence in Gaza despite the ceasefire agreement of October 2025. We call for halting any policies aimed at forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza Strip and express concern regarding arrangements that may prejudice the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and legitimize or prolong occupation.We reaffirm that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict can only be achieved by peaceful means and depends on the fulfilment of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including the rights to self-determination and return. We affirm the need for adequate representation of Palestine in all relevant international organizations, including multilateral financial institutions, and access to their resources. We reaffirm our support for the State of Palestine's full membership in the UN in the context of the unwavering commitment to the two-state solution, in accordance with international law, including relevant UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, and the Arab Peace Initiative, that includes the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within the internationally recognized 1967 borders, which included the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in order to achieve the vision of two States living side by side, in peace and security.We express our firm opposition to the forced displacement, temporary or permanent, under any pretext, of any of the Palestinian population from the Occupied Palestinian Territory, as well as any geographic or demographic changes to the territory of the Gaza Strip. We reiterate that international law and international judicial bodies demand the end of the illegal occupation and the immediate cessation of all practices that undermine legal norms and obstruct a just and lasting peace.We reiterate our grave concern about the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including the humanitarian situation in Gaza. We call for adherence to international law, in particular to international humanitarian law and international human rights law, and condemn all their violations, including the use of starvation as a method of warfare, attacks targeting civilians and civilian objects, including healthcare facilities and other civilian infrastructure, as well as the unlawful obstruction of humanitarian access. We also condemn attempts to politicize or militarize humanitarian assistance. We reassert our steadfast support for UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and stress the need to fully respect the mandate, bestowed on it by the UNGA, for the provision of basic services to Palestine refugees in its five fields of operations. We call on all relevant parties to respect their obligations under international law and act with utmost restraint and to avoid escalatory actions and provocative declarations. We note, in this regard, the provisional measures of the International Court of Justice in the legal proceedings instituted by South Africa against Israel, which, inter alia, reaffirmed Israel's legal obligation to ensure the provision of humanitarian aid in Gaza.We reject any unilateral measures that seek to alter the legal and historical status of occupied Jerusalem. We urge full respect for the sanctity of all religious sites and holy places in the city and for the rights of all to access and to observe their religious rites without hinderance.We welcome the ceasefire in Lebanon and call on all parties to strictly adhere to its terms and to fully implement UNSC Resolution 1701. We condemn the continued violations of the ceasefire and of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon. We call on Israel to respect the terms agreed with the Lebanese government and to withdraw its occupying forces from all of the Lebanese territories, in which they remain.We highlight the vital role played by United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and agree it is imperative to ensure the safety, security, and freedom of movement of all UN personnel and equipment, as well as to respect the integrity of UN premises. We condemn all attacks against UNIFIL installations and personnel and emphasize that such attacks are a violation of international law and UN Security Council Resolution 1701 (2006). We also extend our deepest condolences for the loss of four Indonesian as well as other peacekeepers serving under UNIFIL and express solidarity with all Troop Contributing Countries affected. We express our condemnation of the incidents that led to these fatalities and reiterate that the safety and security of UN peacekeepers are non-negotiable. We underscore the importance of respecting the role and mandate of UNIFIL in supporting the Government of Lebanon and in creating space for a political solution. In this regard, we call for those responsible for these attacks to be held accountable, and further call on all parties to guarantee the safety and freedom of movement of UNIFIL personnel and assets, as well as the inviolability of UN premises.We express grave concern over the deteriorating situation in Sudan, including the worsening humanitarian crisis and the growing risk of proliferation of extremism and terrorism. We reiterate our positions in this regard and call for an immediate, permanent ceasefire and for a peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue. We also stress the need for sustained, urgent and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance for the Sudanese population, and for the scaling up of humanitarian aid to Sudan and neighbouring countries. We reiterate the principle of "African solution to African problems" should continue to serve as the basis for conflict resolution and call for a coordinated approach among peace efforts.We reaffirm our commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria and call on all parties to ensure a peaceful and inclusive political transition, in a manner that ensures the security and well-being of the civilian population and upholding the rights of all components of Syrian society, including minorities. We encourage the international community to support the post-conflict reconstruction and rehabilitation of Syria. We stress our continued support for the efforts for an inclusive Syrian-led and Syrian-owned, UN facilitated political process, free from foreign interference, based on the principles of UNSC Resolution 2254 (2015), where all political and social components of Syria's society are represented and protected. We highlight the urgency of addressing the issue of foreign terrorist fighters given the serious risk they pose to Syria's and regional stability and security. We urge Syria to firmly oppose all forms of terrorism and extremism and take concrete actions to respond to concerns of the international community about terrorism. We further reaffirm the necessity of the withdrawal of occupying forces from Syria.We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation to address humanitarian crises worldwide and express concern at the dwindling of international responses, including the acute shortage in funds allocated to humanitarian action, and call for urgent mobilization of adequate resources, and upgrading concerted efforts at various regional and international levels to that end, while affirming the central role played by the United Nations. We strongly condemn all violations of international humanitarian law, including deliberate attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as the denial or obstruction of humanitarian access and the targeting of humanitarian personnel. We underline the need to address accountability for all violations of international humanitarian law. We recognize international efforts undertaken by BRICS members to promote respect for, adherence to, and effective implementation of international humanitarian law.We express strong condemnation of any acts of terrorism as criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, whenever, wherever and by whomsoever committed. We condemn in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025, during which 26 people were killed and many more injured. We reaffirm our commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens. We reiterate that terrorism should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group and that all those involved in terrorist activities and their support must be held accountable and brought to justice in accordance with relevant national and international law. We urge to ensure zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering terrorism. We emphasize the primary responsibility of States in combating terrorism and that global efforts to prevent and counter terrorist threats must fully comply with their obligations under international law, including the Charter of the UN, in particular the purposes and principles thereof, and relevant international conventions and protocols, in particular international human rights law, international refugee law and international humanitarian law, as applicable. We welcome the activities of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) and its five Subgroups based upon the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Strategy, the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan and the CTWG Position Paper. We look forward to further deepening counter-terrorism cooperation. We call for an expeditious finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN framework. We call for concerted actions against all UN designated terrorists and terrorist entities.We also emphasize the importance of countering extremism and radicalization specially among the younger generations and further stress the need to enhance cooperation among the BRICS countries and their competent authorities, including through sharing of best practices.We express our concerns about illicit financial flows including, financing of terrorism, trafficking of firearms, trafficking in persons, the laundering of drug related crimes proceeds, use of ICTs for criminal purposes illegal virtual asset flows, corruption and related illicit activities, money laundering, financial fraud through organized crimes and circumvention of domestic regulatory frameworks that have adverse impact on economic stability, sustainable development and the integrity of the international financial system and organized crime. We also express concern about financing of terrorism. We recognize that these activities, including the illicit use of virtual assets and violations of domestic regulatory frameworks, may adversely affect economic stability, sustainable development and the integrity of the international financial system. We express serious concerns over the proliferation of organized scam networks, including cross-border fraud operations and so-called scam compounds, which exploit digital technologies, payment systems and individuals in vulnerable situations. We underline the importance of coordinated international action to dismantle these illegal networks, trace and recover criminal proceeds, protect victims, and prevent the misuse of financial institutions and emerging payment methods for large-scale fraud. We further stress the need to enhance cross-border cooperation among customs authorities, financial intelligence units, law enforcement agencies, tax authorities and supervisory bodies, including through relevant existing BRICS Working Groups and based on the documents adopted in BRICS, as well as the relevant international legal instruments to which the BRICS countries are parties, telecommunication providers and technology platforms including through improved information-sharing, risk-based approach, use of data analytics and capacity-building, to effectively identify, detect and disrupt money laundering schemes involving both goods and services, including those exploiting the misuse of invoicing practices, professional services and cross-border contractual arrangements. We encourage enhanced cooperation in strengthening digital financial security, including prevention of fraud in cross-border payment systems.We reaffirm our commitment to promote BRICS cooperation in the preventing and combating corruption and to the continued implementation of relevant international agreements in this regard, in particular the United Nations Convention against Corruption. In that context we recognize the progress achieved under the BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group in strengthening international cooperation on asset recovery and combating cross-border corruption. We welcome the establishment of BRICS Expert Network on Asset Recovery to enhance cooperation among focal points and experts and encourage competent authorities to make active and effective use of practical tools developed by the Network. We also welcome the BRICS Repository on Informal Cooperation for Tracing Fugitive Offenders Sought for Corruption and Supporting Extradition. We acknowledge ongoing discussions on the proposal of developing a Network of Law Enforcement Practitioners for enhancing international cooperation on Fugitive Offenders, in accordance with our respective domestic legal frameworks. We also acknowledge the initiatives of BRICS countries aimed at promoting transparency, integrity and accountability in governance and the exchange of good practices related to ethical governance and technology-driven systems. We encourage continued cooperation among BRICS countries to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks and institutional capacities. We stress the importance of effective criminal asset recovery in combating corruption and encourage BRICS countries to strengthen cooperation, including through asset tracing networks and other practical mechanisms, with a view to facilitating the recovery and the return of assets in accordance with UNCAC and domestic laws.We express concern over the situation with illicit drug production, trafficking and abuse worldwide, and recognise that it seriously threatens public security, health safety and well-being of humankind and undermines the sustainable development of States. In this regard, we welcome the Guwahati Declaration issued by the BRICS Heads of Anti-Drug Agencies that would facilitate operational and technical cooperation among BRICS Anti-Drug Agencies.We appreciate the achievements of the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation (RSSC) in harnessing space technology for addressing global challenges and fostering socio-economic development. We recognise the importance of international cooperation in the peaceful exploration and use of outer space, including the peaceful use of space systems, and reiterate our commitment to reducing existing asymmetries in space capabilities among BRICS countries. We welcome the discussions in the BRICS Heads of Space Agencies meeting held in Bengaluru that emphasised the importance of space debris mitigation for ensuring the long-term sustainability of outer space activities. We also appreciate the significant progress in finalising the amendment to the BRICS RSSC Agreement for making provision for inclusion of new BRICS Space Agencies and in drafting the Terms of Reference for the BRICS Space Council. We also warmly welcome the 65th jubilee of the first human space flight of Mr. Yuri Gagarin on 12th April 1961, which marked a historic milestone in the exploration of outer space and opened new frontiers for all humankind.We recognize the need to ensure the use of space systems, as well as the achievements of space science and technologies, for peaceful purposes. We also reassert our support for ensuring the long-term sustainability of outer space activities and prevention of an arms race in outer space (PAROS) and of its weaponization, as well as the threats or use of force against outer space objects, including through negotiations to adopt a relevant legal multilateral instrument to ensure global security. We recognize the submission of the updated Draft Treaty on the Prevention of the Placement of Weapons in Outer Space, the Threat or Use of Force against Outer Space Objects (PPWT) to the Conference on Disarmament in 2014 as an important step towards this goal. We stress that practical and non-binding commitments such as Transparency and Confidence-Building Measures (TCBMs), and universally agreed norms, rules, and principles may also contribute to PAROS. We note the initiative of some BRICS Members at the General Assembly to create a single Open-Ended Working Group to enable coherent, inclusive and effective discussions that serves such purpose and undertake to engage constructively in the process, on the basis of existing achievements, including on substantial elements on a legally binding instrument on PAROS.We recognize the transformative impact of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) as a key driver of socio-economic growth and digital transformation in BRICS countries and reaffirm our commitment to further strengthening collaboration in this regard, based on each country's national priorities and international commitments. We reaffirm our support for an open, safe, secure, stable, accessible, peaceful, and interoperable ICT environment while respecting sovereignty and national security of each country and welcome the operationalization of the Global Mechanism on Developments in the Field of ICTs in the Context of International Security and Advancing Responsible States Behaviour in the Use of ICTs. We underscore the central role of the UN in fostering constructive dialogue to forge common understandings on security in the use of ICTs including discussions on developing a universal legal framework in this realm, further observation of universally agreed norms, rules and principles for responsible behaviour of States in the use of ICTs. We encourage all States to consider signing and ratifying the UN Convention against Cybercrime, in accordance with domestic laws, processes and procedures, in order to ensure its rapid entry into force to enhance international cooperation in combating cybercrime. We call upon all States to continue their engagement in the Ad Hoc Committee, in accordance with General Assembly Resolutions 74/247, 75/282 and 79/243, with a view to negotiating a protocol supplementary to the Convention addressing, inter alia, additional criminal offences, as appropriate, and to preparing the draft rules of procedure for the Conference of the States Parties.We recognise the progress made in promoting BRICS cooperation in accordance with the Roadmap of Practical Cooperation on Ensuring Security in the Use of ICTs, and its progress report. We acknowledge the important role of the BRICS Working Group on Security in the use of ICTs in fostering cooperation among BRICS members in areas such as policy exchanges, sharing of best practices among Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), law enforcement cooperation and joint research and development. We underscore the importance of BRICS academic and research exchanges. We emphasize the importance of promoting the use of ICT for peaceful and developmental purposes and in a more inclusive, accessible, sustainable and interoperable manner, and ensuring that its applications remain people centered. We call for concerted and inclusive efforts to address the challenges stemming from and within the digital realm such as threat to security in the use of ICTs, malicious software, data security, and the misuse of technologies including cybercrime, misinformation, hate-speech, disinformation and deepfakes. We call for a comprehensive, balanced, and objective approach to the development and security of ICT products and systems as well as for the development and implementation of globally interoperable common rules and standards for supply chain security. We emphasize the growing importance of telecommunications for the preservation of peace and the economic and social development.Sustainable and Inclusive Global Economic GrowthWe note that the current global challenges are complex and interlinked and impede economic growth and sustainable development of countries while accentuating persistent development gaps across countries and regions. We acknowledge that practical and actionable responses, taking into account national priorities, national ownership and different stages of development, are key to addressing these challenges and reiterate the particular importance of sustainable development and inclusive growth in the UN agenda. In this context, we reaffirm that BRICS remains an important platform for dialogue, diplomacy and cooperation in advancing practical solutions to common challenges.We welcome the deepening of cooperation in global health initiatives and reaffirm our commitment to advancing universal health coverage through resilient, inclusive, and people-centred approaches. We recognize the significance of continued cooperation among the BRICS members and the necessity of sharing valuable experiences, innovations and best practices for improving health outcomes across the BRICS countries. We reiterate our shared conviction that multilateral cooperation in health must be preserved and reinforced, emphasizing the vital coordinating role of the World Health Organization. In this context, while reaffirming sovereign rights of States over their biological resources as well as the sovereign right to legislate and implement laws, including national access and benefit-sharing legislation, we encourage continued constructive engagement on the negotiations of the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) Annex to the WHO Pandemic Agreement in support of a safe, equitable, transparent and effective multilateral framework.We welcome the outcomes of the 16th BRICS Health Ministers' Meeting held in Chandigarh. We recognize tuberculosis as a critical global public health challenge requiring coordinated action, sustained investment on research and effective mechanisms for cross-learning and innovations. We reiterate that individual countries and institutions have a key role to play in the path to end TB, which is possible through mutual collaboration, shared technology, and a unified front to foster TB research. Acknowledging that infectious disease outbreaks, zoonotic threats, antimicrobial resistance and other public health emergencies transcend national borders and require strengthened international cooperation, timely information sharing and coordinated collective action, we underscore the importance of enhancing global health security through resilient surveillance systems, effective early warning mechanisms, and strengthened preparedness and response capacities. Recognizing the central role of the World Health Organization and the amended International Health Regulations (2005), we underscore the importance of enhancing global health through resilient surveillance early warning and rapid response systems and coordination. In this regard, we welcome the establishment of a dedicated Sub-Working Group to advance the BRICS Integrated Early Warning System for the prevention and response to Mass Infectious Diseases, and its Terms of Reference.We encourage strengthened collaboration among BRICS Medical Products Regulatory Authorities by extending the scope of the existing Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of medical products regulation to the Regulatory Authorities of all BRICS Member countries, and reiterate the importance of strengthening collaborative regulatory approaches to ensure the continued availability and accessibility of quality, safe and efficacious medical products. In this regard, we welcome the collective efforts of BRICS Regulatory Authorities in developing the BRICS GxP White Paper, consolidating best practices of regulatory experience and technical approaches.We further reaffirm our commitment to strengthening cooperation on people-centred digital healthcare systems and welcome the BRICS Compendium on Digital Health Architecture for Continuum of Care, including Access to Healthcare in Remote Areas, as a valuable knowledge resource.We recognise that obesity and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as major global public health challenges and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening preventive and promotive healthcare through whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches. In this regard, we endorse the launch of the BRICS Mission for Healthy Lifestyle and the BRICS Roadmap for the Joint Initiative on Healthy Lifestyle Promotion (2026–2029). We also welcome the Compendium of Replicable Best Practices on Healthy Lifestyle. We recognise the promotion of mental well-being as a vital pillar of health and sustainable development and support the establishment of a BRICS Training Hub Network and a BRICS Network of Centres of Excellence (CoE) with National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) being the coordinating CoE. The Network of CoEs could also serve as a platform to facilitate collaborative research, policy dialogue, exchange of best practices, and the co-development of evidence-based mental health promotion strategies across BRICS countries. A designated group of representatives from each BRICS Member State shall jointly govern the coordination of the Centre of Excellence/Network of CoEs, ensuring balanced decision-making and shared accountability to achieve deep scientific and technical cooperation and ensure the sustainable and scalable integration of mental well-being into primary healthcare. We also welcome the Compendium of Best Practices on Promotion of Mental Wellness.We emphasize the importance of addressing the mental health consequences of crises and are committed to providing timely, accessible, and sustained mental health and psycho-social (MHPSS) interventions to affected populations, particularly people in vulnerable situations, including children and adolescents.We acknowledge the growing relevance of Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (TCIM) to strengthening health systems and contributing towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC). We welcome the proposed establishment of the BRICS Expert Working Group on TCIM under the BRICS Health Track as a platform for dialogue, collaboration and exchange among Member States. We underscore the value of coordinated research on medicinal plants and herbal preparations of therapeutic and preventive use, so that the shared traditional pharmacopoeias of Member Countries may serve as a foundation for developing safe, effective, and affordable therapeutic products. We reaffirm the importance of ensuring quality, safety and efficacy of TCIM practices and products through evidence-informed approaches and appropriate regulatory frameworks in accordance with the national contexts.We emphasize the importance of strengthening the health workforce to ensure the resilient and advanced health system in developing countries and LDCs. In this regard, we call for expanded BRICS cooperation in capacity building, training, and research, among others.We acknowledge the vital role of National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) in strengthening public healthcare systems through policy guidance, workforce development, disease surveillance, preparedness and response, public healthcare laboratory systems and applied research. We acknowledge the importance of addressing the diseases driven by social determinants of health (DD-SDH) through multisectoral collaboration, exchange of best practices, and innovative health technologies, including digital health, to strengthen collective capacities and accelerate progress towards reducing inequities in health outcomes. We, therefore endorse the "operational frameworks" on NPHIs & DD-SDH as collaborative platforms according to national contexts to strengthen the collective actions by BRICS member countries. We support the activities of BRICS Vaccine R&D Centre and recognize the importance of collaboration in nuclear medicine. We welcome the activities of the BRICS Nuclear Medicine Working Group, to further strengthen cooperation among BRICS Member States and advance continued collaboration in the field. We note the importance of the BRICS Health Journal for disseminating research findings and promoting scientific cooperation within the BRICS framework, and encourage continued engagement of BRICS countries in its development.We emphasize the importance of strengthening health infrastructure and local production of medical products, enhancing preparedness for future health emergencies through stronger surveillance systems, laboratory networks, leveraging digital health technology and Artificial Intelligence, integrating traditional medicine in health systems, technical cooperation among public health institutes, development of robust regulatory frameworks, skilled health workforces, and collaborative research and development, capacity building and training to ensure timely, affordable, and equitable access to healthcare services, vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.We recognize that BRICS countries are key players in world food production and, as such, have a critical role in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability, and ensuring global food security and nutrition. We emphasize the importance of ensuring food security and nutrition and mitigating the impacts of acute food price volatility, as well as abrupt supply crises, including fertilizers shortage. In this regard, we acknowledge the importance of continued elaboration of the initiative to establish a grain trading platform within BRICS (the BRICS Grain Exchange) and welcome further discussions on the modalities of its functioning and its subsequent development, and expanding into other agricultural products and commodities. We support further discussions on national policies and on international coordination that enhance food availability, accessibility, utilization, stability and affordability, as well as relevant agricultural and food production inputs in BRICS and other developing countries - including those that strengthen national capacities to respond to supply disruptions, such as national food reserve systems, and drought resilient and climate adaptive seed systems. Building on the Deccan High-Level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition, we also recognize the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty as an important initiative to promote international cooperation. We also look forward to discussions on facilitating intra-BRICS trade of agricultural products, and agricultural and food production inputs, including by promoting resilient and non-discriminatory supply chains, and improve value chains and sustainable agricultural practices. We also recognize that family farmers, including smallholders, pastoralists, artisanal and small-scale fishers and aquaculture producers, indigenous peoples and local communities, women and youth in accordance with national legislation, are essential stakeholders of agriculture and food systems.We welcome the outcomes of the 16th BRICS Agriculture Ministers' Meeting, held in Indore. We agree to the establishment of a collaborative, non-binding, and farmer-centric BRICS AGRIN (Agro-Inputs, Genetic Resources, and Information Network), drawing upon relevant national, regional, and international practices. We also welcome the launch of a Global Forum on Farmers' Rights in Seed Systems to address shared challenges, promote effective policies, and encourage the documentation and exchange of traditional knowledge related to agriculture and seed systems.We further welcome the strengthening of cooperation in agriculture through the establishment of a BRICS Network of Centres of Excellence on Agroecology and Regenerative Agriculture for Climate Resilience and Productivity, and a BRICS Network on Digital Agriculture, including agroforestry, fisheries, and aquaculture. We also encourage further cooperation under the BRICS Dialogue on Development of Fisheries and Aquaculture.We reaffirm our commitment to advancing agriculture negotiations at the WTO, in accordance with existing Ministerial mandates and the WTO Agreement on Agriculture (AoA), with a view to achieving progress on long-standing mandated issues and promoting a fair, balanced and development-oriented agricultural trading system, while recognizing that evolving policy and regulatory developments increasingly affect agricultural production and trade, food security and the livelihoods of smallholders and family farmers. We also welcome ongoing efforts to promote sustainability, inclusivity, and equitable market access in the global sustainable vegetable oils sector.We recognize that energy security is a crucial foundation for social and economic development, national security and the welfare of all nations. We highlight the need to enhance energy security by ensuring energy market stability and maintaining undisrupted flows of energy from diverse sources, strengthening value chains, ensuring resilience and protection of critical energy infrastructure, including cross-border infrastructure. We acknowledge fossil fuels will still play an important role in the world's energy mix, particularly for emerging markets and developing economies, and we recognize the need to promote just, orderly, equitable and inclusive energy transitions and reduce GHG emissions in line with our climate goals and observing SDG7, and the principles of technological neutrality and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities taking into account national circumstances, needs and priorities. We welcome the work of the BRICS Energy Research Cooperation Platform (ERCP) and the convening of the BRICS Youth Energy Summit to facilitate greater participation of women and youth in BRICS energy discourses.We highlight the growing role of digitalization in energy systems including technologies such as artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics that offer significant potential to improve system planning, grid management, renewable integration, operational efficiency and a strengthened cyber-resilient energy infrastructure. In this regard, we welcome the BRICS Guiding Principles on Smart Grids and Energy Storage. We note the Chairship initiative on establishing the BRICS Digital Centre of Excellence for Smart Grids and Energy Storage under the Smart Grids Workstream of the BRICS ERCP as an enabling voluntary dialogue mechanism to advance cooperation.We underscore the importance of balanced and diversified energy mixes reflecting national circumstances and recognize that the widest variety of energy sources and technologies including but not limited to renewable energy, bioenergy, fossil fuels, nuclear energy, hydropower, hydrogen, low carbon technologies, energy storage technologies, which play an important role in achieving the SDGs and energy security. We underscore the role of all available energy sources, resilient energy supply chains and enhanced cooperation among BRICS countries through deliberations in the energy track. In this regard, we encourage BRICS collaboration on interoperable standards and certification frameworks for zero/low-emissions hydrogen and appreciate the ongoing work on the BRICS Joint Report on Hydrogen Value Chains in this regard.We affirm the need to promote reliable, responsible, diversified, resilient, fair, sustainable, and just supply chains of critical minerals to guarantee benefit sharing, value addition and economic diversification in resource-rich countries, while fully preserving sovereign rights over their mineral resources, as well as their right to adopt, maintain and enforce measures necessary to pursue legitimate public policy objectives. We recognize the key role of critical minerals for the development of zero- and low-emission energy technologies, energy security, and resilience of energy supply chains.We reemphasize the importance of strengthening cooperation under the Partnership on the New Industrial Revolution (PartNIR) which serves as a guiding platform to identify interests, challenges, and opportunities in the rapidly evolving industrial landscape. We underscore the important role of BRICS economies in fostering innovation, advancing technological cooperation, including in areas related to Industry 4.0, and promoting deeper engagement among start-ups and SMEs through intra-BRICS initiatives and exchanges. We reaffirm our support for the ongoing efforts of the sectoral working groups under the framework of PartNIR. We encourage BRICS members to leverage established mechanisms to advance cooperation in areas of mutual interest. We appreciate the efforts of the BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center (BPIC) in organising events in 2026, including but not limited to the BRICS Forum on PartNIR. We welcome the establishment of the BRICS Incubator Network and further consideration of a BRICS Startup Innovation Fund, as a potential mechanism to catalyse startups for innovation-led growth. We also appreciate the strengthening of the BRICS Startup Knowledge Hub and the BRICS Startup Forum.While recognizing the key role of the industrial sector to realize economic growth and structural transformation, we agree to foster entrepreneurship and startup-led innovation, including through industrial park developments and other national initiatives for industrialisation to facilitate input linkage, increase manufacturing industry exports, market access to MSMEs, technology transfer and cooperation, productivity, and ensure environmental sustainability.We acknowledge the work of seven specialized Working Groups of BRICS Industrial cooperation and commend their achievements. We welcome the adoption of the Terms of Reference and Action Plan of the Photovoltaic Industry Working Group and encourage each BRICS member to develop its respective knowledge portal for sharing policy updates and best practices, and support the development of the BRICS Solar Photovoltaic Cooperation Roadmap to identify priority areas for technology cooperation, financing and capacity building. We acknowledge the efforts undertaken by the Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics Working Group to formulate its action plan to identify initiatives on smart factory development, solution sharing, standard cooperation and talent cultivation. We acknowledge the importance of promoting digitalisation, sustainability and innovation in the chemical production sector within the Working Group on Chemical Industry for the benefit of the BRICS countries.We acknowledge the initiatives undertaken by the SME Working Group and commend the Indian Chairship for convening the inaugural BRICS SME Forum in Agra and its report titled "Advancing MSME Competitiveness in BRICS: Strengthening Access to Finance & Technology and Sustainable Growth", recognizing its scope in relation to fostering cooperation, exchange of best practices and inclusive growth among MSMEs across BRICS countries and support the convening of second SME Forum. In this regard, we welcome the Framework for Cooperation in the SME Working Group.We appreciate the operationalisation of the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies established in cooperation with UNIDO and the work undertaken to support manufacturing companies including SMEs in BRICS countries in the adoption of Industry 4.0 and advanced digital production technologies. We note that the platform facilitates targeted exchanges on new industrialisation through emerging frontier technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, as appropriate and in accordance with each member state's national priorities. We note the initiative of China Centre for BRICS Industrial Competences (CCBIC) to release a compendium on BRICS Industrial Cooperation and welcome the establishment of the India Centre for BRICS Industrial Competencies (ICBIC). We encourage the BCIC to strengthen its engagement with all BRICS countries.We underscore the importance of cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) as a key driver for sustainable economic and social development and commend the work of the 14 thematic BRICS STI Working Groups and the BRICS STI Steering Committee in this regard. We reaffirm our commitment to sustainable development, developing new quality productive forces, fostering more resilient and high-quality growth, social inclusiveness and promoting innovation and technology as catalysts for improving the welfare and quality of life of the people across BRICS countries. We welcome the Chennai Consensus Joint Declaration of our STI Ministers and acknowledge the BRICS Science and Research Repository envisaged as a structured platform for knowledge storage and sharing among BRICS countries on a voluntary basis and in accordance with national laws and regulations, while respecting data security, intellectual property rights and relevant national policies and take note of its draft Framework Document. We also appreciate the cooperation in emerging spheres such as quantum technologies. We welcome the adoption of the BRICS Working Group on Research Infrastructure and Megascience Projects Action Plan and the proposal to create BRICS Global Research Advanced Infrastructure Network (GRAIN) Centres and Joint Coordination Committee.We acknowledge that submarine cable infrastructure for BRICS countries is an important foundation for international digital connectivity and network resilience. We appreciate the coordination of a dedicated Task Force that concluded the document "BRICS Cable Requirements: directive brief", following the Rio de Janeiro Declaration of 2025, which welcomed the discussion of undertaking a "Technical and Economic Feasibility Study" for establishing a high-speed communication network through submarine cables between the BRICS countries. In this regard, we support continued dialogue and cooperation on voluntary basis among BRICS countries, in accordance with national circumstances and priorities. We further encourage the BRICS STI Steering Committee to continue this dialogue within the Task Force and propose the next steps for the feasibility study respecting national priorities and regulations and look forward to enhanced coordination between the BRICS ICT track and the STI track and prevent duplication of work for further progress.We celebrate the ten-year milestone of the BRICS STI Framework Programme, which serves as the main mechanism of funding joint scientific research. We note the dedicated event in Russia in October 2026 to mark this occasion. We also welcome the launch of the first Innovation Call, Pilot Flagship Call, as well as the 7th Regular Call for Research Projects and look forward to their results.Recognizing the important role of youth in driving innovation and contributing to our collective prosperity, economic growth and future competitiveness, we encourage BRICS members to promote the engagement of young researchers and startups through established mechanisms, including the Young Scientists Forum and the Young Innovators Prize. We also acknowledge the initiatives aimed at strengthening innovation ecosystems and promoting sustainable and inclusive growth, including the proposed Virtual Platform for BRICS Youth Startups to enable engagement and networking among the BRICS Young Scientists and Young Innovators alumni and to facilitate dialogue, networking and voluntary exchange among them.We recognize that digital and ICT ecosystems are a critical foundation for economic development, social inclusion, improved service-delivery, sustainable growth, resilience and innovation and emphasize deepening BRICS cooperation towards a sovereign and self-reliant digital ecosystem. In this regard, we underscore the transformative potential of resilient, safe, secure, inclusive and interoperable digital public infrastructure and digital public goods, based on national priorities and circumstances to strengthen digital ecosystems and to deliver services at scale and increase social and economic opportunities for all. We note the proposal to launch the digital public infrastructure repository for BRICS countries and pilot projects of digital public infrastructure solutions for digital transformation for BRICS countries.We recognize that future networks research and development is of great significance to the promotion of digital transformation and connectivity among BRICS countries, and encourage all BRICS members to nominate a national branch for BIFN. In this regard, we note the proposal of the establishment of a digital ecosystem cooperation network for BRICS countries, including proposal on relevant information portal.We encourage enhancing cooperation in digital skilling, research cooperation and capacity building through scalable, context-responsive and collaborative approaches. In this regard, we note the proposal for the capacity building centres for BRICS member states as a commendable effort towards fostering a future-ready workforce. We also appreciate efforts in developing a Compendium on Universal and Resilient Digital Connectivity for sharing policy experiences with BRICS countries. Further, we welcome the convening of the Digital BRICS Forum 2026. We also note the holding of the meeting of Focus Group on Digital Public Infrastructure.We emphasize our commitment to ensuring a safe digital environment for children, including through proactive measures, awareness-raising, prevention, exchange of best practices, capacity-building and user-centric protection. We further emphasize our commitment to ensuring a safe digital environment for senior citizens, as well as for people in vulnerable situations, for whom targeted preventive and awareness-raising measures are required.We recognize that Artificial Intelligence presents immense opportunity to stimulate economic growth and sustainable development for all. We further note that international cooperation in enhancing accessibility of AI resources while ensuring its safety, security, inclusiveness and reliability, for promoting energy efficiency of AI systems, fostering AI Science and Innovation, developing trustworthy AI technologies, leveraging AI for economic growth and social good and mitigating potential risks would be essential for promoting a just, fair, equitable and prosperous future of all countries, especially those of Global South. We congratulate India on the successful holding of the AI Impact Summit in February 2026 and acknowledge that the Summit will contribute to strengthening international cooperation to advance common priorities. We also acknowledge the World AI Conference & High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai and its contribution in strengthening AI international cooperation for good and for all. We commit to implement the BRICS Leaders' Statement on the Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence.While acknowledging the growing complexity of disaster risks, including those related to climate change especially for the Global South, we reaffirm our commitment to BRICS cooperation to improve national disaster risk reduction systems and capacities to reduce disaster-related damage and protect infrastructure, human lives and livelihoods; to share traditional, indigenous, local knowledge and community-based approaches, to ensure preparedness and self-reliance; as well as to mobilize adequate, predictable and accessible financing, including public and private investment, for comprehensive infrastructure development. In this context, we welcome the BRICS Guidelines for Disaster Management Early Warning Data Integration and the BRICS Voluntary Principles for Climate-Resilient Urban Infrastructure.We underscore that strengthening the resilience of infrastructure systems to climate and disaster risks is vital for achieving sustainable development. In this regard, we acknowledge the role of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) as an international partnership for supporting member and partner countries in integrating resilience across infrastructure systems through technical assistance, knowledge exchange, enabling policy and financing approaches. We underscore the importance of investing in building sustainable resilience, prioritising prevention and taking anticipatory action, rooted in evidence-based policy making. We also underscore the importance of enhancing early warning systems and risk-informed planning to strengthen preparedness and response capacities.We acknowledge that BRICS members represent a broad diversity of societies and civilisations that are affected differently by unjustified unilateral protectionist measures inconsistent with WTO rules, and that BRICS should focus on promoting a just and fair, stable and predictable environment for mutually beneficial sustainable development. We emphasize the importance of creating more resilient, reliable and stable supply chains, with particular attention to the needs of developing countries for their modernization efforts. In this regard, we agree that BRICS should work towards broader and more equitable participation of developing countries and emerging markets in higher-value added segments of global manufacturing and production, including through promoting trade and investment initiatives, technical cooperation, promotion of productive capacities and technology transfer in line with each members' respective laws, regulations and policies.We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the internationalization of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as a driver of economic growth and prosperity. We acknowledge that access to affordable finance remains a primary bottleneck and structural constraint, limiting MSMEs' participation in trade and integration into Global Value Chains (GVCs). We welcome the BRICS Guiding Principles for Credit Assessment Frameworks for Export-oriented MSMEs that leverage diverse and relevant data sources to reduce information asymmetries, improve risk assessment and expand access to formal finance for underserved MSMEs. We understand the importance of promoting innovative financing mechanisms, including digital and platform-based multistakeholder solutions for facilitating easier access to trade finance for MSMEs. We welcome the Jaipur Consensus to study the establishment of an Invoice Discounting Mechanism for BRICS members aimed at facilitating invoice discounting, enabling MSMEs to unlock working capital and strengthen their participation in international trade.We reiterate the importance of cooperation to ensure that Global Value Chains (GVCs) are resilient, efficient, predictable, productive, transparent, secure, fair, stable and inclusive. We welcome efforts towards digitization in the GVCs. In this regard, we encourage technical cooperation to foster opportunities for trade facilitation, capacity building, critical infrastructure, industrial capacities, enhanced connectivity, intellectual property protection, and promotion and acceleration of safe, secure and affordable access to technology in a manner that contributes to sustainable growth consistent with domestic priorities, national laws and each Member's international obligations, as applicable. We intend to explore the potential of mutually reinforcing policy levers to enhance intra-BRICS trade. We support the implementation of the Workplan on BRICS Shared Understanding on GVCs and welcome the further development of the BRICS GVC Action Plan 2026-2030 and all the initiatives mentioned therein. We also emphasize the need for this Action Plan to specifically address the challenges faced by EMDCs in moving up the value chain.We share the willingness to harness the potential of the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) of the BRICS Members as well established mechanisms for promoting trade, investment, industrial cooperation, innovation, and integration into resilient and sustainable GVCs, by providing enterprises with an enabling business environment, efficient infrastructure, streamlined regulatory procedures, and other facilitative measures that enhance ease of doing business. We aim to build cooperation in connectivity and trade facilitation inter alia digitisation of trade documentation for stakeholders to operate in a more efficient, transparent, and seamless environment, taking into consideration different capacities of each BRICS Member.We reaffirm our support of the Kimberley Process as the sole global intergovernmental certification scheme, regulating trade in rough diamonds and emphasize our commitment to preventing conflict diamonds from entering the markets. We welcome India's Chairship of the Kimberley Process in 2026. We note the Informal BRICS Cooperation Platform with the participation of African diamond-mining nations to ensure free trade in rough diamonds and the sustainable development of the global diamond industry. We will continue to examine viable mechanisms to promote trade in diamond and precious metals within BRICS and in the global market.We reaffirm our commitment to deepening pragmatic economic cooperation and advancing a closer economic partnership among BRICS members. We recognise that the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership continues to serve as the overarching framework guiding our cooperation, providing the basis for the further development of sectoral strategies, programmes and roadmaps under the ownership of member countries. Recognising the progress made towards the conclusion of the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership during Brazil's Chairship in 2025, we commend India for its leadership in 2026 in fulfilling the mandate given by Leaders in 2025, by successfully steering the progress of the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership 2030.We acknowledge the efforts of the BRICS Payment Task Force (BPTF) towards exploring pragmatic solutions for efficient cross-border payment mechanisms, drawing on the guidance, provided by us in the Kazan and Rio Declarations, on the BRICS Cross-Border Payments Initiative. In this regard, we acknowledge the work done to study the cross-border interoperability of payment and messaging channels, and the discussions on promoting trade settlements and investments using BRICS local currencies, while respecting national priorities and acknowledging that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. We encourage the BPTF to continue discussions, building on the ongoing work, to facilitate practical solutions for cross-border payments among BRICS countries, which are fast, low-cost, more accessible, efficient, transparent, and safe.We welcome the work of the Task Force on Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and Infrastructure. We welcome the Task Force's Technical Report on PPP models and modalities, and de-risking mechanisms, which will serve as a valuable knowledge resource for member countries in strengthening their PPP ecosystems and improving risk allocation frameworks.We recognise the need for harnessing the collective potential of BRICS to build a more self-reliant BRICS insurance ecosystem to support trade among members, and further discussion on enhancing reinsurance capacities. Building on the work of previous Chairships, we welcome continued discussions among interested members on exploring the concept of a BRICS Insurance Resilience Centre (BIRC) as a voluntary shared capability platform for developing common risk models, exchanging best practices and building specialist capabilities. In this regard, members expressed interest in taking forward the discussions on India's proposal to host a BRICS Risk Lab, open to participation by interested members, at the GIFT City International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat. We look forward to further discussions regarding enhancing BRICS members' (re)insurance capacity, with the voluntary participation of relevant stakeholders, comprising regulators, and reinsurance companies from BRICS countries.We reiterate our encouragement to continue technical-level efforts on the New Investment Platform (NIP) and building on the guidelines finalised under the Brazilian Chairship. We also welcome the progress achieved under the Indian Chairship in advancing discussions on the NIP. We note the constructive technical discussions held among members on the establishment of a dedicated Study Group under the BRICS Finance Track as a platform for technical dialogue and knowledge-sharing. We acknowledge the broad support expressed by members for continuing the work on a consensus-based, phased and member-driven approach, while respecting national sovereignty, diverse regulatory frameworks and existing institutional mandates. We encourage the continuation of technical engagement, including further refinement of the Study Group's Terms of Reference, to advancing shared understanding on operational modalities and the role of relevant BRICS institutions.Reiterating our encouragement to explore potential appropriate formats for dialogue on settlement and depositary infrastructure, we take note of the technical workshop that explored the diverse legal, institutional, regulatory, and technical dimensions of settlement and depositary systems across members, which will deepen the understanding across BRICS jurisdictions and provide a basis for continued voluntary exchange of knowledge, experiences and technical dialogue and cooperation among interested stakeholders.We welcome the sharing of experiences on areas of cybersecurity developments and trends, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies such as quantum computing for the financial sector. We acknowledge the work done under the BRICS Rapid Information Security Channel (BRISC) and BRICS Fintech Working Group in adopting an EMDE-centric approach to assess the opportunities and risks posed by new technologies. We recognize the importance of conducting the BRICS Cyber Exercises and Drills on an annual basis, which underscore the importance of collective and coordinated approaches, mutual learning and practical cooperation in strengthening cyber resilience in the financial sector. We welcome the BRICS Central Bank Hub for Capacity Building aimed at building expertise in emerging areas of central banking.We recognise the disproportionate burden imposed by climate change across countries, with EMDEs facing particular challenges in addressing climate-related risks and vulnerabilities, as well as the substantial gaps in funding needs, particularly for adaptation measures. In this context, we welcome the report on the "Role of Central Banks towards optimising Sustainable and Green Finance, including Adaptation", which examines central bank measures and sustainable finance trends, including efforts to explore the possibility of making climate finance projects more bankable, globally as well as within BRICS countries.We acknowledge the efforts of the BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) Technical Team towards enhancing the CRA's operational resilience and making it more responsive during times of crises. Amendments to the CRA Treaty will help the CRA function with greater flexibility and responsiveness as a BRICS financial safety net. We look forward to timely completion of the ninth CRA Test Run, and release of the seventh edition of the BRICS Economic Bulletin on the theme "Global Economic Uncertainties and Implications for BRICS". We value the participation of new BRICS members who have expressed interest in joining the CRA and we look forward to timely completion of discussions on onboarding them on a voluntary basis and according to country specific circumstances.We reaffirm our commitment to a fair, inclusive, stable, and efficient international tax system and to strengthening cooperation among BRICS members in addressing evolving international tax challenges. We further reaffirm our commitment to strengthening BRICS Tax Cooperation through resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability, while promoting knowledge sharing and capacity building, constructive engagement in international forums like the United Nations Framework Convention on International Tax Cooperation and its protocols. We welcome the initiatives undertaken during India's Chairship to deepen institutional cooperation among BRICS tax authorities, including through establishment of Working Groups on International Taxation & Transfer Pricing and on Revenue Statistics. We welcome the in-person capacity building programme for Young Tax Professionals and the advancement of the BRICS Women in Tax Network. We further appreciate the continued efforts to promote innovation and knowledge sharing through existing and new mechanisms, welcoming the initiatives on the establishment of the BRICS Tax Support Network and the launch of the BRICS Tax Cross-Learning Lab, as well as the further development of the BRICS Tax Collaboration Tool.We acknowledge the deepening of customs cooperation among BRICS countries since its inception in 2012. We encourage the BRICS Customs Centres of Excellence to undertake targeted training and technical cooperation programmes responsive to Members' needs. We welcome the convergence achieved on the BRICS Agreement on Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters, the willingness of Members ready to proceed with its signing, subject to completion of the necessary national processes and efforts to secure participation of all BRICS countries. We acknowledge the endeavour to continue strengthening cooperation on Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) programmes through voluntary implementation of the BRICS AEO Action Plan 2026, information exchange, capacity building, sharing of best practices and mutual recognition, taking into account national frameworks and priorities; to work towards conducting the BRICS Joint Customs Enforcement Operation, as an annual initiative, where appropriate, in consultation with BRICS members, coordinated by the respective BRICS Chairship, based on mutually identified cross-border smuggling trends, shared priorities and operational feasibility; and building on the experience of the first Joint Customs Enforcement Operation to improve operational coordination and address mutually identified and emerging customs threats.We welcome the initiative of the Indian Chairship to establish a BRICS Task Force on Growth and Development as a dedicated platform to address shared growth and development challenges of relevance to BRICS and other EMDEs. We recognise the Task Force as a platform that provides BRICS countries a space to discuss growth models suited to their own national contexts and development priorities. We note with appreciation the work done under the two workstreams of the Task Force covering the Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and the Sustainability pillars. We welcome the Chair's Summary of the Task Force and the Technical Notes that identify areas of convergence on the development finance architecture reform agenda, facilitate shared understanding of the macroeconomic and financial implications of digital transformation, AI, and structural reform, and inform BRICS members' engagement in relevant multilateral forums. We acknowledge the Discussion note reflecting shared perspectives on climate finance, drawing on the principles of UNFCCC and its Paris Agreement. We encourage the continuation of work of the Task Force in alignment with the workstreams of Ministries of Finance and Central Banks. We also take note of the Compendium on Financing Mechanisms for Lifestyle for Sustainable Development and the Review of Climate-Related Vulnerabilities highlighting BRICS countries' approaches to mobilising finance for sustainable development. We also welcome the Discussion Paper on Artificial Intelligence and the Green Economy, which highlights opportunities to leverage AI for sustainable growth.Recognising the challenges of population ageing and large informal workforces, we welcome the workshops held during India's Chairship in a BRICS forum of pension regulators and supervisors, to strengthen cooperation on pension regulation and retirement income security.We welcome the progress made in advancing the BRICS Multilateral Guarantees (BMG) initiative in line with the guidance provided in Rio Declaration in 2025. We recognise the potential of the initiative to mobilise private capital, improve creditworthiness and reduce financing costs for development projects in BRICS and the Global South. We encourage continued technical work and the development of pilot transactions.Recognising its role in policy research and intellectual resource sharing, we welcome the continued contribution of the BRICS Think Tank Network for Finance under India's Chairship in leveraging fintech for inclusive development and financing resilient infrastructure. We support efforts to strengthen its research output and dissemination.We welcome the outcomes of the BRICS Transport Ministers' Meeting held in Nagpur and look forward to further promoting transport dialogue, including in civil aviation, to meet the demand of all stakeholders and to enhance the BRICS countries' transport potential while also respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all member states, while carrying out transport cooperation. We reaffirm the commitment of BRICS countries to deepen cooperation in the areas of transport policy, investment, technological and capacity building with a view to develop sustainable and resilient transport infrastructure, recognizing its critical role in economic growth, connectivity, and environmental sustainability. In this regard, we acknowledge the importance of embedding circular economy principles into the development and maintenance of transport infrastructure across BRICS countries, and promoting Sustainable Aviation Fuels and Low-Carbon Aviation Fuels as means for reducing carbon emissions in international aviation. We welcome the BRICS Forum on Sustainable Aviation Fuels, the BRICS Framework of Cooperation for Exchange of Knowledge on Transport Decarbonisation while leveraging our renewable energy potentials, and the establishment of BRICS Urban Mobility Hub for knowledge exchange and cooperation in accessible, affordable, inclusive, and smart urban transport solutions. We welcome the establishment of the BRICS Logistics Supply-Chain Cooperation Framework and encourage discussion on the BRICS Railway Research Network proposal.We welcome the entry into force of the 2016 amendment to Article 50(a) of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, expanding membership of the ICAO Council by adding four seats to underrepresented regions, including Africa and Asia Pacific and welcome the candidatures of Ethiopia, endorsed by the African Union as the sole African candidate, and Indonesia to assume the additional seats in the Council in the upcoming elections taking place during the 43rd (Extraordinary) ICAO Assembly.We welcome the convening of the BRICS Urbanisation Forum in New Delhi and the adoption of the Ministerial Declaration. We reaffirm our commitment to advancing people-centred urban development and creating inclusive, sustainable, resilient and liveable cities through strengthened cooperation on adequate, safe and affordable housing, water and sanitation, sustainable mobility, harmonised and efficient mobility, waste management and other essential urban services. We also commend the establishment of the BRICS Urban Research and Knowledge Network as a platform for applied research, knowledge-sharing and capacity-building to support resilient and sustainable urban development.We reiterate our commitment to uphold multilateralism as necessary to address challenges threatening our shared planet and future, such as climate change. We resolve to remain united in the pursuit of the purpose, principles, and objectives of the UNFCCC and its Paris Agreement and call on all countries to uphold their existing commitment as Parties to these instruments and to maintain and scale up their effort to combat climate change. We further reaffirm our steadfast commitment, in pursuit of the objective of the UNFCCC, to tackle climate change by strengthening the full and effective implementation of the Paris Agreement, including its provisions related to mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage and the provision of means of implementation to developing countries, reflecting equity and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances. We also recognize that high debt burdens further constrain climate and development investment in many developing countries and called for coordinated international action to enhance debt sustainability, expand fiscal space, and support sustainable development and climate financing. We encourage BRICS cooperation in this regard in the Contact Group on Climate Change and Sustainable Development. We commend the successful conclusion of the Brazilian COP30 presidency and express support for Ethiopia's UNFCCC COP32 presidency.We oppose unilateral, punitive, discriminatory and protectionist measures that are not in line with international law, such as carbon border adjustment mechanisms, and express concern that such measures undermine efforts by countries, specifically the developing countries, aimed at addressing the adverse impacts of climate change, increasing adaptive capacity and resilience.We highlight the potential of the BRICS Climate Research Platform and the BRICS Laboratory for Trade, Climate Change and Sustainable Development for promoting climate action and building resilience in the BRICS Member Countries and we look forward to their further development. Recalling 2025 Leaders' Framework Declaration on Climate Finance we support promoting cooperation in the field of carbon markets, with a specific focus on capacity building and exchange of experiences and look forward to the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding on the BRICS Carbon Markets Partnership as a cooperative approach to support members in their climate strategies, including in complementing mitigation efforts and mobilizing needed resources. We appreciate knowledge sharing through the BRICS High-level Dialogue on People-Centric Community-based Adaptation Approaches and the Dialogue on Aligning Carbon Markets with Adaptation Goals.We encourage enhanced cooperation among BRICS countries on people-centric and community-based adaptation as an important pathway to strengthening climate resilience and sustainable development. Developed countries shall provide additional, adequate, predictable, accessible financial resources, capacity building support, technology development and transfer to developing countries for adaptation. We recognise the value of traditional knowledge systems, indigenous and local communities' practices, local innovations, and community experiences in enhancing adaptive capacity and addressing climate challenges, and encourage the exchange of experiences, knowledge, and best practices, including on the integration of traditional knowledge with scientific knowledge and technological innovation. In this regard, we welcome the BRICS Principles for advancing Climate Resilience through People-Centric and Community-based Adaptation based on Traditional Knowledge. We underscore the importance of nationally determined just transitions and balanced mitigation and adaptation actions. We also highlight the importance of all available and accessible solutions and technologies that contribute to emission reduction and enhance adaptive capacity, including the critical role of ecosystems as carbon stocks and sinks, providers of ecosystem services, and contributors to climate resilience.We underscore the importance of the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity, of the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources and of the effective implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity, and its Protocols, and its Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. We appreciated the establishment of the Kunming Biodiversity Fund and the contribution made by China and recognized its significant role in supporting developing countries for their biodiversity conservation. We also note BRICS countries' initiatives including the Action Initiative for the KMGBF. We urge developed countries to ensure the provision of adequate, effective, and predictable, timely and accessible financial resources to developing countries as well as to improve capacity building, development and transfer of technology to developing countries for the conservation, sustainable use and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of biodiversity. While appreciating the efforts of our countries to preserve rare species and noting the high vulnerability of big cats, we take note of the Republic of India's initiative to create an International Big Cats Alliance and encourage BRICS countries to work together for the conservation of big cats.We underscore the critical role of all types of forests, including boreal and tropical forests, for conserving biodiversity, water basins and soils and providing timber and non-timber forest products of high value for economic sectors, regulating hydrological cycles, as well as combatting desertification, land degradation and drought and serving as vital carbon sinks. We encourage the sharing of best practices supporting sustainable forest management and restoration. We further underscore their role in supporting livelihoods, including those of indigenous peoples and local communities, through sustainable use. We also welcome the adoption of the BRICS Principles for Integrated Landscape-Based Greening and Land Restoration and the Common Understanding for Wildfire Preparedness & Response across BRICS countries. We welcome the launch of the Tropical Forest Forever Facility at the Belém Climate Summit and recognize it as an innovative mechanism designed to mobilize long-term, results-based financing for tropical forest conservation. We encourage potential investor countries to announce ambitious contributions, in order to ensure the Facility's capitalization and timely operationalization. We also take note of the "United for Our Forests" initiative, and acknowledge national large-scale greening initiatives which promotes the conservation, sustainable management, and restoration of these essential tropical ecosystems. We take note of the Mangrove Alliance for Climate, co-led by the UAE and Indonesia, as platforms for international cooperation.We acknowledge critical environmental challenges such as water availability, desertification, drought, land degradation, as well as sand and dust storms, and wildfire with significant implications for ecosystems, agriculture, livelihoods of people in vulnerable situations and socio-economic development. We are committed to integrated protection and systematic management of mountains, water resources, forests, peatland and mangroves, farmlands, grasslands and deserts for holistic ecosystem restoration. We recognize the role of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, co-hosted by the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Senegal to be held in Abu Dhabi from 8 to 10 December 2026, and look forward to advancing progress and discussions to accelerate implementation of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all) on Clean Water and Sanitation.We note the growing scale and complexity of waste generation driven by urbanisation, industrialisation, and evolving consumption patterns. We emphasise the importance of strengthening integrated waste management frameworks, supported by national policy instruments such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), eco-design and sustainable public procurement, enhanced monitoring mechanisms, and investments in recycling and recovery infrastructure, as per national priorities and capabilities, with a view to improving material circularity and resource efficiency. We welcome the initiative to establish a Network of BRICS Institutions to Advance Knowledge Sharing, Research and Innovation in Sustainable Lifestyles. We welcome the possibility of organising BRICS Sustainable Lifestyle Week in 2026.As the New Development Bank embarks on its second golden decade of high-quality development, we recognize and support its growing role as a robust and strategic agent of development and modernization in all shareholder countries and in the Global South. We underscore the growing role of the New Development Bank (NDB) in meeting the development priorities and infrastructure needs of EMDCs. We encourage further efforts by the Bank to expand steadily its capacity to mobilize resources, foster innovation, expand local currency financing, diversify funding sources, and support impactful projects that advance sustainable development, reduce inequality, and promote infrastructure investments and economic integration. We recognize NDB as a crucial BRICS institution for promoting sustainable development, reducing inequalities, and supporting resilience in emerging economies. We further encourage the NDB to follow the member-led and demand-driven principle, and the ongoing strengthening of its governance framework, which enhance the Bank's institutional resilience and operational effectiveness, to continue executing its purpose and functions in a fair and non-discriminatory manner. We reiterate support for the further expansion of NDB membership and expedited consideration of applications of interested BRICS countries, in line with the NDB General Strategy and its related policies. We express our appreciation to Russia for holding the 11th NDB Annual Meeting in Moscow on the 14-15 May 2026 as the Chair of the Board of Governors of the New Development Bank. We welcome the launch of the BRICS-NDB Knowledge Portal under the Indian Chairship, developed in cooperation with the NDB. The Portal brings together development experiences, best practices, policy innovations and lessons from country programmes and NDB-financed projects across BRICS members. The portal is designed to serve as a repository of the outcomes of BRICS Finance Track workstreams, supporting continuity and knowledge exchange across Chairships. We encourage the further development of the Portal with a view to making it a practical and accessible tool for BRICS countries.While emphasizing the need for continued reform of global economic governance to ensure more effective, equitable and representative participation of developing and emerging economies, we underscore the key role of the G20 as the premier global forum for international economic cooperation that provides a platform for dialogue of both emerging and developed economies on an equal and mutually beneficial footing for jointly seeking shared solutions to global challenges, fostering a multipolar world and ensuring open, non-discriminatory, fair, and inclusive international economic system and value chains. We reaffirm our willingness to work collectively to preserve the legacy of the G20 BRICS states' consecutive presidencies – Indonesia, India, Brazil and South Africa – in 2022-2025 and further amplify the voice of the Global South in the global economic governance system so that G20 adequately reflects EMDEs' rising weight in the global economy and integrates their priorities in its agenda. We salute the strengthening of the EMDEs' voice in the G20 through the accession of the African Union during India's Presidency of G20 in 2023 and the invitation to the NDB during the Brazilian and South African presidencies, including through their closer interaction and alignment. We recognize the importance of the continued and productive functioning of the G20, based on its economic mandate, consensus decision making, depoliticized processes, integrity and inadmissibility of arbitrary revision of its membership. In this regard, we underscore the status of South Africa as a G20 founding country and a full-fledged member while emphasizing that any change in membership should be based on consensus of all members and reflect geographical balance and the growing share of the Global South countries in the world output.We reaffirm our commitment to deepen cooperation in the field of competition law and policy among BRICS nations to foster fair, competitive, and resilient market environments across sectors, including critical and emerging areas while respecting each State's national priorities, laws and regulations. We note the discussion under the theme 'Strengthening Cooperation to Promote Fair Competition, including in Renewable Energy Markets', with a view to support sustainable energy transitions. We further encourage continued cooperation among BRICS competition authorities to identify and effectively address emerging competition challenges, with a view to safeguarding contestable and well-functioning markets that support innovation and promote consumer welfare.We acknowledge the cooperation among BRICS National Standards Bodies (NSBs) and welcome the progress for signing of BRICS Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Field of Standardization as a milestone in strengthening collaboration, enhancing information exchange, establishing mechanisms for regular dialogue and joint activities, and promoting coordinated engagement in international standardization processes relevant to various sectors. We further welcome initiatives to advance cooperation on emerging areas of standardization and capacity building, including the BRICS Technical Session on Emerging Trends in AI Standardization and the BRICS Knowledge Exchange Session for Capacity Building and BRICS Economic and Trade Forum themed on trade development and standardization cooperation. We encourage continued exchanges among BRICS NSBs on national experiences, best practices and innovative approaches in the development, adoption and implementation of standards, and sharing of technical expertise and resources to strengthen cooperation and institutional capacities across BRICS countries.We reaffirm the importance of strengthening statistical cooperation on policymaking in the evolving data ecosystem. We encourage the continued cooperation in areas of common interest, including the modernization of statistical systems, adoption of innovative methodologies and data sources. We further note the need to compile and periodically update information on national statistical reforms, including the use of administrative and alternative data sources, artificial intelligence and capacity building initiatives, to support knowledge exchange and collaboration among Member Countries. We encourage enhanced knowledge sharing and capacity-building within BRICS. We support the continuation of the annual BRICS Joint Statistical Publication and BRICS Joint Statistical Publication Snapshot as a valuable instrument for transparency, mutual learning, and cooperation among BRICS members.We underscore the pivotal role of intellectual property in underpinning high-quality economic development, encourage the substantial cooperation among the BRICS Intellectual Property (IP) Offices, welcome the update of the Operational Guideline Framework in 2026 to better guide the implementation of cooperation, and to further expand exchanges and collaboration in the areas of IP awareness promotion, capacity building, IP commercialization, patent examination process, traditional knowledge, Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications (GIs) and AI application among the BRICS IP Offices on mutually agreed terms. We recognize the importance of collaborating on promoting respect for the intellectual property rights used in the digital environment, including for artificial intelligence training purposes, as well as fair remuneration to right holders, while respecting the needs and priorities of developing countries. With the rise of application of AI, we recognize risks relating to misappropriation and misrepresentation of knowledge, heritage, and cultural values that are insufficiently represented in data sets and AI models.We highlight the important role of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in promoting accountability, transparency, effectiveness, and good governance in public administration. We also acknowledge the evolution of SAIs through complementing financial and compliance auditing with more outcome-oriented, data-driven, and impact-focused approaches. We welcome the continued exchange of knowledge, experience, and good practices among the SAIs of BRICS countries, including cooperation in the auditing of urban mobility systems. Recalling the Bengaluru Declaration adopted at the Fifth BRICS SAIs Heads' Meeting, we appreciate efforts to enhance the relevance, impact, and credibility of SAIs in contributing to better governance and improving the ease of living for citizens across BRICS countries including through implementation of BRICS SAI's Work Plan 2027-2028.Strengthening Cultural & People-to-People CooperationWe reaffirm the importance of BRICS people-to-people exchanges and initiatives in enhancing mutual understanding, friendship and cooperation amongst our nations and peoples. In this regard, we welcome the holding of important engagements such as the Parliamentary Forum, the BRICS Tourism Ministers' Meeting, the Business Council, the Business Forum, the Women's Business Alliance, the Youth Council, the Youth Summit, Meeting of the Deans of Diplomatic Academies, the Think Tank Council, the Academic Forum, the Civil Council and the Civil Forum. We call for more efforts to respect diversity of cultures, highly value inheritance, innovation and creativity, jointly advocate robust international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation and recall the adoption of the UNGA Resolution A/RES/78/286 entitled "International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations".We welcome the outcomes of the BRICS Women Ministerial meeting held in Kochi, anchored in the vision of women-led development and women's all-round development. We recognise women as leaders, decision-makers and drivers of economic growth and social transformation. We affirm that women's participation in governance; their financial and digital inclusion; their capacity building, access to skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities, support to entrepreneurship, access to productive and social services and their crucial role in climate action, food security and nutrition, which are interconnected is key for sustainable development. We recognize the vital role of women in peace building process in accordance with global Women, Peace and Security agenda. We welcome the development of BRICS Women's Digital Capacity Building Guidelines and take a note of India's Chairship initiative for creation of a voluntary and non-binding digital repository of best practices. We also recognise the importance of policies that support women's full participation in economic life, including through appropriate care policies, in accordance with national circumstances.We welcome the outcomes of the 13th BRICS Education Ministers' Meeting in Bhubaneswar and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening cooperation in education as a key driver of sustainable development, inclusive growth, and people-to-people exchanges. We highly recognize the important role played by the BRICS TVET Cooperation Alliance (BRICS-TCA) in building a multilateral platform for project cooperation, promoting information exchange, resource sharing, and advancing the joint development of TVET among member states. We look forward to the BRICS-TCA Biennial Progress Report and the BRICS-TCA Compendium of Sustainable Skill Initiatives. We reaffirm our commitment to strengthening skill development systems, digital literacy, and enhancing workforce preparedness across BRICS countries, while promoting the alignment of training programmes with evolving market demands and sustainable development priorities through promoting linkage of TVET institutions with industries.We further support continued cooperation through existing BRICS education mechanisms, including the BRICS Network University, and note with appreciation India's initiative in circulating the BRICS Guiding Principles on strengthening academic collaboration on traditional and indigenous knowledge systems, and encourage the BRICS Network University to consider the possible inclusion of traditional, indigenous and local knowledge systems as an additional International Thematic Group (ITG), in accordance with established governance procedures consistent with the national laws and policies of BRICS countries. We encourage the sharing of best practices, cooperation in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) and Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN), mutual recognition of qualifications, academic and professional mobility, digital literacy, safe, ethical, human-centred use of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, in education, and stronger institutional partnerships. We also encourage collaborative efforts to improve institutional governance, enhance quality and accessibility in education, and promote exchange and scholarship programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), TVET-industry linkage to foster innovation and expand job opportunities, innovation and knowledge exchange to equip learners and institutions to address future opportunities and challenges. We encourage continued organizing of BRICS Rectors' Forum and holding discussions of BRICS Education Olympiad and further exploration for the development of the BRICS University Global Ranking and Evaluation System.We encourage strengthening BRICS Labour cooperation in stepping up efforts to protect and improve people's livelihoods, promoting high-quality, full and productive employment investing in human capital and advancing high-quality population development through sustainable development and inclusive, human-centered labour markets. In this regard, we recognise the transformative role of digital technologies in expanding the outreach of social protection and enhancing inclusiveness and accessibility for workers' welfare, and acknowledge the importance of exploring innovative, nationally tailored policy approaches to increase social protection coverage to workers in the gig and platform economy. We commit to strengthen collaboration in forecasting skills needs by analysing labour market trends in digital, green, care and other priority sectors. We welcome the adoption of BRICS CONNECT (BRICS Cooperation Network for Capacity Building, Employability, and New Skills and Technologies), adding to the existing BRICS VLO (BRICS Virtual Liaison Office) for Social Security Cooperation. We recognise the importance of protecting the rights of workers moving across borders, ensuring portability of benefits, and avoiding double coverage of social security contributions. We reaffirm our collective commitment to building resilient labour markets that are formal, inclusive, responsive, digitally empowered, and future-ready ensuring that no worker is left behind. We note the initiative to establish the "International Digital Platform for Remote Employment" for the BRICS Countries.We welcome the adoption of the Bhopal Declaration at the 11th BRICS Culture Ministers' Meeting, reaffirming the important role of culture in fostering people-to-people cooperation and strengthening ties among BRICS countries. We call for the protection of cultural heritage, including in regions affected by conflict, to prevent the destruction and illicit trafficking of cultural property, which is vital for preserving the history and identity of affected communities, as well as on the need to ensure the restitution and repatriation of cultural heritage, antiquities, and objects of spiritual, ancestral, historical and cultural value, to their country of origin. We further encourage cooperation among BRICS countries through exchange of information, documentation and institutional cooperation among museums, archives, libraries and other relevant cultural institutions. We encourage the exchange of information and sharing of best practices in the cultural and creative industries, including in the areas of training and capacity-building for artists and cultural practitioners. We take note of the initiative to create and develop an Artist Registry on a pilot basis for voluntarily participating members. In this regard, we acknowledge initiatives, such as Platform on Cultural and Creative Industries and the Creative Economy, identification and documentation of Traditional Knowledge Systems and Traditional Cultural Expressions. We encourage to explore opportunities for joint multinational nominations under relevant UNESCO Conventions and Programmes on voluntary basis. We encourage further cooperation between BRICS countries including within relevant multilateral fora for the development of cultural industries and resources.We welcome the organisation of BRICS Culture Festival and WAVES Bazaar. We appreciate organisation of the BRICS Theatre Festival and the BRICS Film Festival as important platforms for showcasing the cultural diversity of our nations promoting the circulation of cultural and creative works, and strengthening people-to-people ties. We encourage the expansion of such platforms thereby creating greater opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration among BRICS countries. We welcome the continued development and strengthening of BRICS Alliances with a view to enriching and broadening cultural exchanges among the peoples of BRICS countries.While recognizing tourism as an important driver of economic growth, employment generation, foreign exchange earnings, inclusive and sustainable development, local livelihoods, economic diversification, heritage preservation, national image building, cultural understanding and people-to-people exchanges, we acknowledge that the BRICS countries have immense potential in the tourism sector and offer significant opportunities for the growth and development of sustainable and resilient tourism, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, including through the promotion of ecotourism. We encourage knowledge exchange on responsible, sustainable and regenerative tourism models. We welcome the initiatives on harnessing Artificial Intelligence and digital tools for smarter, more efficient tourism systems; such as digital payment systems promoting eco-friendly, community-led, sustainable and climate-resilient tourism models; strengthening human capital, training, promotion of investment and institutional capacity across the sector; and facilitating smooth tourism flows. We welcome the Communique of the Tourism Ministers' Meeting held in Jaipur on strengthening intra-BRICS cooperation to promote sustainable, inclusive, smart and resilient tourism development across BRICS nations and to increase international tourism competitiveness. We also support the development and promotion of diverse tourism products among Member States, including historical, cultural, nature-based, gastronomy and health tourism.We emphasize the importance of sport as a vehicle for social development, people-to-people exchanges and promotion of healthy and active societies. We commend the progress of the BRICS Sports Working Group, including the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Field of Physical Culture and Sport. In this regard, we appreciate organisation of the BRICS Games as a platform for cooperation in the field of high-performance sports, sports for all and leisure sports, as well as development of national, traditional, indigenous and non-Olympic sports of BRICS countries to celebrate our shared diversity. We encourage enhanced cooperation for advancing sports among youth and students in popular sports as well as national, traditional and indigenous sports. We encourage BRICS member countries to facilitate the cooperation in sport technology in the form of exchange of good practices, institutional experiences, technical information and research inputs. We welcome the proposal for the BRICS Sports Goods Manufacturing Conclave to promote cooperation in sports goods manufacturing, research and innovation. We also recognize the growing role of technology in enhancing quality of performance, welfare, governance and inclusion in sports and encourage discussions on the formation of the Working Group on Sports Technology. We welcome a dialogue on the BRICS Sports Cooperation Framework and look forward to its further consideration through the established consultation process among Member States in accordance with their established internal procedures.We reaffirm the important role of youth as drivers of resilience, innovation, inclusion and sustainable development. We welcome the discussions at the BRICS Ministerial for Youth Affairs and commend the role of the BRICS Youth Council and the BRICS Youth Summit in strengthening BRICS cooperation and meaningful youth engagements. We encourage further cooperation among the youth of BRICS countries in Education, Training and Skills; Youth Entrepreneurship; Science, Technology and Innovation; Social and Cultural Participation; Social Work and Volunteering; Development; Combating Poverty, Hunger and Inequalities; Health, Youth and Sports; Youth, Environment and Sustainability; Interfaith Youth Dialogue; Youth Exchange; and Youth Inclusion. In this regard, we welcome the progress on the BRICS Youth Cooperation Framework that would enhance BRICS cooperation on common priorities on youth cooperation.We recognise the need to strengthen cooperation in the field of justice and acknowledge the Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Justice, the Meeting of the BRICS Chief Justices and the Meeting of the BRICS Heads of Prosecution Services. We further support greater cooperation in addressing cross border commercial disputes. We acknowledge the importance of efficient and reliable dispute resolution mechanisms for ensuring legal certainty, strengthening investor confidence, and facilitating international trade and investment, and recognise the growing role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, including mediation and arbitration, as effective complements to formal judicial processes. We encourage BRICS countries to advance ADR as an accessible and people-centric mechanism, and support capacity-building initiatives for relevant stakeholders across member countries.We look forward to the convening of the XII BRICS Parliamentary Forum in October 2026, including the Meeting of Women Parliamentarians and the Meeting of International Affairs Committee Chairpersons towards strengthening exchanges and cooperation among our parliaments. We emphasize the importance of these engagements as useful platforms to enhance mutual understanding and trust among nations, drive innovation and strengthen institutional resilience towards building an inclusive, sustainable and equitable future for all.We welcome convening of the BRICS Business Forum 2026 that facilitated direct business to business engagements among BRICS members. We further welcome initiatives such as the BRICS Solutions Awards 2026 and the BRICS Women's Start-up Awards 2026 that encouraged innovative, scalable and impactful solutions in achieving sustainable development, technological advancement and inclusive growth in BRICS.We commend the continued efforts of the BRICS Business Council towards strengthening economic cooperation among BRICS countries and welcome the BRICS Business Council's Annual Report and its policy recommendations aimed at enhancing trade and investment and resilient supply chains, including through greater business engagements among BRICS members. We further welcome the launch of the Sustainable Development Network.We commend the important role of the BRICS Women's Business Alliance (WBA) in promoting women's entrepreneurship, leadership and economic participation across BRICS countries. We welcome the recommendations in the Annual Report of the Women's Business Alliance that aims at improving access to finance, markets, technology, skills development and digital opportunities for women-led enterprises. We note the strong engagement achieved to date across BRICS countries in the WBA's 2026 programmes. We encourage BRICS National Chapters to continue strengthening intra-BRICS cooperation on women's economic participation, including through knowledge-sharing and joint initiatives.We acknowledge the outcomes of the Meetings of the BRICS Think Tank Council, BRICS Civil Council, BRICS Academic Forum and BRICS Civil Forum and progress made towards strengthening dialogue and exchange among academic communities and civil society organisations.We note that the BRICS expansion reflects its influence, credibility, and appeal as an important platform for inclusive global governance. We underscore the need for outcome oriented enhanced coordination, continuity and support for a long-term institutional development. We reaffirm that institutional development is a continuous and dynamic process that should reflect the needs and priorities of BRICS countries. In this regard, we welcome the progress on the establishment of BRICS Online Archival Database and look forward to further discussions for its early operationalisation as well as considering Chair's initiative of MoU stocktaking exercise contributing to strengthening institutional development.We commend India's BRICS Chairship in 2026 and express our gratitude to the government and people of India for holding the XVIII BRICS Summit in the city of New Delhi.We extend full support to China for its BRICS Chairship in 2027 and the holding of the XIX BRICS Summit in China.
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