RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – April 29, 2025 — The BRICS group of nations has reaffirmed its collective commitment to promoting global peace and multilateral cooperation as foreign ministers from its 11 member states convened in Rio de Janeiro on Monday, April 28. The high-level diplomatic meeting, hosted by Brazil’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mauro Vieira, aims to solidify the bloc’s stance on pressing international crises and formulate a unified response to the ongoing global trade tensions, particularly those involving the United States.
In his opening remarks, Minister Mauro Vieira underscored the importance of BRICS as a platform for global dialogue and cooperation, stating that the group’s diversity and expanding influence give it a crucial role in shaping international peace and stability.
“With 11 member states representing almost half of humanity and a wide geographic and cultural diversity, BRICS is uniquely positioned to foster peace and stability,” Vieira said. “This gathering is a call for renewed multilateralism and the urgent reform of key global institutions, including the United Nations Security Council, to reflect today’s geopolitical realities.”
A Growing Voice on the Global Stage
The meeting brought together foreign ministers from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and the newly expanded members — Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Argentina. Together, these countries now form a significant bloc representing approximately 46% of the global population and a substantial share of the world’s economic output.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, a key attendee, echoed Vieira’s sentiments, reinforcing BRICS’ role as a counterbalance to Western influence and unilateral actions that have increasingly disrupted global harmony.
“Our nations are bound not only by economic interests but by a shared vision of a fairer, more inclusive international order,” Lavrov remarked. “We must act decisively and collaboratively to resolve the crises that threaten our collective security.”
Key Issues on the Agenda
Among the pressing topics discussed were the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the political instability in Haiti, and escalating tensions in parts of Africa. Minister Vieira voiced strong condemnation of recent military escalations and blockades that have impeded the delivery of critical aid to affected civilians.
“The resumption of Israeli bombings in Gaza and the continued obstruction of humanitarian aid are unacceptable,” Vieira declared. “BRICS must stand firm in advocating for international humanitarian law and the protection of civilian lives.”
The ministers also deliberated over the need for a more balanced global economic system. They criticized the growing trend of unilateral sanctions and trade restrictions, primarily driven by the United States, which they argue have disproportionately affected developing economies.
“We are witnessing an increasingly hostile global trade environment, marked by protectionism and unjust economic measures,” said India’s External Affairs Minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. “BRICS must champion fair trade practices and defend the interests of the Global South.”
A Push for UN Reform and Multilateralism
The call for reforming the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, was a central theme throughout the discussions. Member states reiterated that the current structure does not adequately represent the modern global balance of power and disproportionately favors a few Western nations.
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the urgency of institutional change, stating, “For multilateralism to be effective, global institutions must be democratic, transparent, and representative. Reforming the UN Security Council is no longer a matter of choice — it is a necessity.”
The African delegates also used the platform to spotlight security concerns on the continent, particularly the rise in extremist violence and foreign interference in sovereign affairs. Ethiopia’s representative called for increased BRICS cooperation in peacekeeping, development aid, and conflict prevention.
Looking Ahead
The BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting, scheduled to continue through Tuesday, is expected to produce a joint communiqué outlining the bloc’s policy positions on major international issues. Diplomatic sources suggest that the statement will reiterate the group’s dedication to peace, sovereignty, and global development, while calling for stronger cooperation among developing nations.
Brazil, which currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, is using the opportunity to highlight its leadership role and advance the agenda of the Global South.
“We must not only respond to crises but also shape the future,” Vieira said in his closing remarks on the first day. “This meeting is not just about diplomacy — it is about action and solidarity among nations that believe in a better, more equitable world.”
As BRICS continues to evolve into a more assertive global player, the outcomes of this meeting could have lasting implications for international diplomacy, especially in the context of rising geopolitical fragmentation and economic uncertainty.
