
PM Modi warns against weaponising critical minerals, tech and supply chains
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cautioned that no country should weaponise critical minerals, technology, or supply chains to serve narrow self-interests at the expense of global stability. His remarks came during the BRICS Outreach Session on multilateralism, economic affairs, and AI in Rio de Janeiro.
“While enhancing cooperation on critical minerals and technology, we must ensure these are not used as weapons. Supply chains must be secured and made resilient,” Modi said, in a veiled reference to China’s export restrictions on rare earth materials and fertilizers.
Modi also stressed that BRICS’ New Development Bank should adopt demand-driven, sustainable, and transparent financing practices, indirectly critiquing China’s debt diplomacy model that often burdens developing countries with unsustainable loans.
To strengthen BRICS’ credibility in calling for global institutional reforms, Modi urged internal improvements. He said that BRICS must model transparency and inclusion to effectively champion reform in the UN Security Council and global financial institutions.
On Artificial Intelligence, Modi reiterated India’s “AI for All” approach and called for responsible AI governance that balances innovation and safety. “AI should enhance human values and capabilities,” he said.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres echoed these concerns, warning against the monopolisation of AI by a few nations. He stressed the need for multilateral institutions to reflect today’s multipolar world.
Modi highlighted India’s initiatives such as the BRICS Agricultural Research Platform and proposed a new BRICS Science and Research Repository to help the Global South in agri-tech, climate resilience, and innovation.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to collaborative development, he said, “India will work shoulder to shoulder with all partners to meet the expectations of the Global South.”