External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday raised concerns over global trade practices, calling trade patterns and market access “prominent issues” while addressing the Virtual Summit of BRICS Leaders. He stressed the need for fair, transparent, and inclusive economic practices to build resilience against global disruptions.

“The world is seeking a stable and predictable environment for trade and investment,” Jaishankar said. “This requires resilient supply chains, democratized manufacturing, and regional self-sufficiency to reduce vulnerabilities in times of uncertainty.”

Highlighting India’s position, Jaishankar noted that some of New Delhi’s largest trade deficits are with BRICS partners and urged expedited solutions. He cautioned against increasing trade barriers or linking trade measures to non-trade issues, urging BRICS to set an example by reviewing internal trade flows.

Jaishankar emphasized that the international trading system must remain rules-based, fair, and inclusive, with Special and Differential Treatment for developing countries. He cited recent global crises—including the Covid-19 pandemic, conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, extreme climate events, and slowing progress on Sustainable Development Goals—as reasons why the multilateral system is failing to meet global challenges.

The minister also pressed for urgent conflict resolution, noting how wars have worsened food, energy, and fertilizer insecurity, particularly in the Global South. He reiterated India’s call for reforms to the United Nations, especially the Security Council, to make international governance more effective.

“On key issues, gridlocks have undermined the search for common ground,” Jaishankar said, urging BRICS to become a strong collective voice for reform.

The BRICS grouping currently includes 11 members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran—with Brazil assuming the chairmanship for 2025.