United News of Bangladesh

BRICS leaders on Saturday expressed concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East and condemned unilateral sanctions not authorized by the UN Security Council. The leaders, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, voiced concern over “deliberate attacks” on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under UN safeguards, stressing that nuclear safety and security must be protected during armed conflicts. The joint statement called for the elimination of such sanctions, saying they undermine international law and the principles of the UN Charter. The summit, hosted by India, brought together Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Pezeshkian and leaders of the other BRICS members. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said BRICS “is not against anyone” and called for turning the bloc’s unity into concrete outcomes. He also proposed a BRICS seafarers’ network to improve the safety and welfare of maritime workers amid disruptions to maritime trade. Putin called for expanding the UN Security Council to give greater representation to Asia, Africa and Latin America, while Xi said China would work with BRICS members to promote peace in the Middle East. India also used the summit to seek better ties with China. Modi and Xi met on the sidelines, with Xi calling for a “strategic and long-term” approach to bilateral relations. Modi stressed that peace along the disputed border was essential for broader ties. The conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, along with US-China tensions, have tested BRICS’ ability to maintain unity among members with differing geopolitical interests.