The gathering of foreign ministers from the BRICS bloc – led by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with other countries – comes in response to unilateral measures imposed by the United States and ongoing global conflicts.
In his opening statement, Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira called for a ceasefire in Palestine, saying: “The resumption of Israeli bombardment of Gaza and the continued obstruction of humanitarian aid are unacceptable. The failure of the ceasefire announced on January 15 is deplorable.”
Since Oct. 7, 2023, the Israeli army has carried out an armed offensive against Palestinians. The most recent air raid resulted in 17 deaths in the northern Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian resistance group Hamas.
“It is necessary to ensure the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, to ensure the release of all hostages and detainees, and to ensure the entry of humanitarian assistance,” Vieira added.
Vieira also called for a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war, now in its fourth year: “We remain committed to continue working for peace and a political solution to the conflict.”
He also stressed the strategic role of BRICS in global diplomacy: “With 11 member states representing almost half of humanity and a wide geographic and cultural diversity, BRICS is uniquely positioned to promote peace and stability based on dialogue, development, and multilateral cooperation.”