‘Need to Address Economic Uncertainties’: Jaishankar Calls for Greater BRICS Cooperation Amid Global Conflicts
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has called for deeper cooperation among BRICS nations, stressing the need to collectively address rising global economic uncertainties amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts and supply chain disruptions.
Speaking at a BRICS-related diplomatic engagement, Jaishankar highlighted that the world is currently facing a period of instability driven by wars, energy volatility, trade fragmentation, and shifting global alliances. He said emerging economies must work together more closely to safeguard their development priorities.
BRICS Must Respond to Global Instability
Jaishankar underlined that BRICS—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with newer members—represents a significant portion of the global population and economic output.
He noted that the grouping has a responsibility to:
- Strengthen economic resilience
- Promote stable trade mechanisms
- Reduce dependence on disrupted supply chains
- Improve financial cooperation among member states
The minister emphasized that global conflicts have made economic planning more uncertain, especially for developing nations.
Focus on Economic Security
A key theme of Jaishankar’s remarks was the growing importance of economic security, which he described as central to national stability in the current global environment.
He pointed to challenges such as:
- Fluctuating energy prices
- Disruptions in global shipping routes
- Inflationary pressures
- Fragmentation of global trade systems
According to him, BRICS nations must coordinate policies to ensure that such uncertainties do not derail growth trajectories.
Push for Multipolar Global Order
Jaishankar also reiterated India’s long-standing position in favour of a multipolar world order, where global power is more balanced and not concentrated in a few countries or blocs.
He said BRICS can play a key role in shaping such a system by:
- Encouraging fair global institutions
- Supporting reforms in multilateral organisations
- Strengthening South-South cooperation
- Enhancing voice for emerging economies
India’s Role in BRICS Cooperation
India, as one of the founding members of BRICS, has consistently advocated for reform in global governance structures, including the United Nations and international financial institutions.
Jaishankar’s remarks reflect India’s broader diplomatic approach of:
- Strategic autonomy
- Balanced global partnerships
- Economic diversification
- Strengthening ties with developing economies
Global Context: Conflicts and Economic Pressure
The call for greater BRICS cooperation comes at a time when the world is dealing with:
- Ongoing regional conflicts impacting energy markets
- Trade restrictions and sanctions affecting global commerce
- Supply chain vulnerabilities exposed after the pandemic
- Rising inflation in several major economies
These factors have increased pressure on emerging economies to build alternative cooperation frameworks.
Conclusion
S. Jaishankar’s appeal for stronger BRICS coordination underscores the growing urgency to address global economic instability through collective action. As geopolitical tensions continue to shape global markets, India is pushing for a more cooperative and balanced international economic order where emerging economies play a larger and more decisive role.
