Highlights of World Leaders' Addresses at BRICS Plus Outreach Meeting in Russia's Kazan
16:51 24.10.2024 (Updated: 12:42 25.10.2024)
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From October 22 to 24, the BRICS Summit is taking place in Russia's Kazan. On the last day, the Plus/Outreach meeting included participation from the ten member countries as well as representatives of nearly 40 other states, featuring leaders from the CIS, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and international organizations.
During the BRICS Plus/Outreach Summit in Kazan on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of global cooperation, the need for reform in international institutions, and Russia's significant role in several key areas, from energy security to addressing global crises.
Putin opened the meeting by praising the BRICS+ format for facilitating direct and open dialogue between the bloc and its partner countries.
"This expanded format has proven itself well and provides an opportunity for a direct and open dialogue between the members of the bloc and our friends and partners," he said, noting that this year's meeting included Russia's closest neighbors and friendly countries.
Moving on to regional security concerns, Putin addressed the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, expressing Russia's opposition to any form of terrorism.
"We have always opposed and continue to oppose any terrorist manifestations," he stated, commenting on the Israeli-Palestinian confrontation.
Putin emphasized the alarming spread of the conflict to other parts of the region, warning of the risk of a full-scale war.
"All this resembles a chain reaction and puts the entire Middle East on the brink of a full-scale war," he cautioned.
He also called for an end to violence and urged the launch of a comprehensive political process based on internationally recognized principles.
Turning to global governance, Putin advocated for reforms in international development institutions and financial structures.
"The reform of the UN development institutions and global financial structures is long overdue," he said.
Moreover, he stressed the importance of creating reliable and independent multilateral financial mechanisms to support the next wave of economic growth emerging in BRICS countries.
"It is important to build alternative, reliable and free from any dictate of multilateral financial mechanisms, production and logistics chains," he added.
On the issue of Ukraine, Putin highlighted the strategic threat it poses to Russia’s security, accusing the West of ignoring Russia’s vital interests.
"Ukraine, which has been used to create critical threats to Russia's security, is one of these examples," he said.
He described attempts to weaken Russia as illusory, warning that they ignore the unity and resilience forged in the country over centuries.
Environmentally, Putin noted Russia’s leadership in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and maintaining one of the world’s greenest energy balances.
"Our country is one of the leaders in contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and its energy balance is one of the greenest in the world," he emphasized, also pointing out Russia's significant contribution to global food and energy security.
Shifting to bilateral relations, Putin commended Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for pursuing an independent foreign policy.
"Under your leadership, Turkey is pursuing an independent foreign policy, which commands great respect," he said, highlighting their joint efforts in resolving regional crises.
Similarly, he expressed optimism about Belarus’s future role in BRICS, praising its economic progress and affirming that it will "certainly contribute to the work of our organization."
Regarding Iran, Putin expressed his expectations for Tehran’s active participation within BRICS and called for measures to reduce tensions in Gaza and the wider region.
"We expect that all possible options will be used to reduce tensions and prevent the escalation of conflict," he said, voicing hope for Iran's success in resolving regional challenges.
Lastly, Putin praised Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro for continuing Hugo Chavez's policies, strengthening Venezuela’s sovereignty, and ensuring its development.
"Under your leadership, Venezuela continues Commander Chavez’s policy of strengthening the country’s sovereignty and demonstrating strong development," he told Maduro.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa Calls for Peace Around the World
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa used the BRICS Plus/Outreach summit in Kazan to address several pressing global and regional issues, calling for peace and international cooperation. His speech centered on the conflict in Gaza, broader global conflicts, and the role of BRICS in fostering cooperation and innovation.
Ramaphosa expressed deep concern about the ongoing military actions in Gaza, which he characterized as genocide.
"South Africa is alarmed by the military actions of Israel against the Palestinian people of Gaza, which we view as genocide," he stated, calling for immediate international intervention.
Ramaphosa stressed that South Africa had approached the International Court of Justice to halt the killings of innocent civilians, emphasizing that the world "cannot simply stand by and watch the continued killings of innocent people."
He reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to supporting efforts toward establishing a viable Palestinian state, coexisting peacefully with Israel within the 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as its capital. Ramaphosa also called on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the international community to take urgent action to resolve the crisis, urging collective efforts to ensure peace.
Shifting to broader global concerns, Ramaphosa noted that many conflicts, such as those in Sudan and the Sahel region of Africa, had been overlooked by the international community. He called on the UNSC and other global organizations to address these "forgotten" conflicts.
"We call on the UN Security Council and the international community to address the growing conflicts," he urged.
Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s firm belief in resolving international conflicts through dialogue and negotiations
"We must be committed to the peaceful resolution of all conflicts," he said, adding that no conflict should be allowed to continue indefinitely. He encouraged support for nations striving for peace, advocating for an end to the cycle of violence.
In addition to addressing geopolitical issues, Ramaphosa welcomed Russia's initiatives to strengthen BRICS cooperation in transportation and digitalization. He highlighted the potential of such projects to unite the Global South, expand regional connections, and simplify trade procedures.
"We welcome the Russian initiative... to explore the future of transportation networks and communications among BRICS countries," he remarked, emphasizing the importance of using BRICS as a platform to foster socio-economic and cultural development.
Ramaphosa concluded by stressing the importance of BRICS in developing strong ties between the Global South and emerging markets.
"The BRICS Plus/Outreach platform must be used to ensure constructive interaction and contribute to the development of our peoples," he stated.
Through his address, Ramaphosa underscored the critical role of BRICS in addressing global challenges, advocating for peace, and promoting cooperation within the Global South.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Stresses Importance of South-South Cooperation
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the importance of South-South cooperation and solidarity during his speech. He highlighted how discussions within the BRICS framework will accelerate development for countries in the Global South.
"Today, discussions among developing countries will help us establish 'South-South' dialogue and 'South-South' cooperation so that, through our shared vision and goals, we can accelerate the development of the South and improve global governance," Abiy Ahmed stated.
He underscored the need for developing nations to unite in facing the numerous crises confronting the world.
"We feel the historical opportunity and responsibility to coordinate positions and work together to overcome the many crises the world faces today. We can resolve the conflicts raging in various regions of the world, reduce human suffering, achieve sustainable development goals, and lessen the debt burden of our countries," the Ethiopian leader noted.
In Abiy Ahmed's view, transparent debt reduction procedures are achievable and crucial for sustainable development. He stressed the importance of economic reforms, adding that the growing significance of developing countries and markets underscores the need for unity.
"Necessary economic transformations and reforms are required, and we understand that the share and importance of developing countries and markets are growing today, which is why we need to strengthen solidarity and partnership, speak with one voice, and use the process of reforming global governance," he emphasized.
Lastly, Abiy Ahmed called for prioritizing the reform of multilateral economic and financial institutions within BRICS cooperation.
"Ethiopia believes that reforming multilateral economic and financial institutions should be a priority of our cooperation, and we must work hand in hand on this," he concluded.
China's Xi Jinping Highlights Role of BRICS and Global South in Global Stability and Development
During the BRICS Plus/Outreach summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed a broad range of global issues, emphasizing the need for cooperation, conflict resolution, and the advancement of the Global South. He called for BRICS countries to play a stabilizing role in world affairs, while also focusing on the importance of modernization and development for the Global South.
Xi began by stressing the importance of BRICS nations in maintaining global peace and security.
"BRICS should be a stabilizing force for maintaining peace, strengthening global security management, and finding solutions to acute problems while eliminating both causes and symptoms," he said.
He also called on BRICS countries to strengthen dialogue and support one another in their modernization paths, affirming that China will continue to prioritize the Global South, regardless of changes in the international situation.
In this context, Xi advocated for the accession of more Global South countries to BRICS, reinforcing the importance of their collective rise in shaping a new global order.
"The collective rise of the Global South is a clear sign of significant changes in the world... an unprecedented achievement in the development of human civilization," he noted, while acknowledging the challenges that peace and development still face globally.
Xi emphasized the need for a "human community of shared destiny," driven by development, reform in global economic governance, and a central role in the international trade agenda.
Turning to specific conflicts, Xi Jinping underscored the urgency of de-escalating the situation in Ukraine.
"We must help de-escalate the crisis in Ukraine as soon as possible and pave the way for a political settlement," he said.
He referenced the Chinese-Brazilian initiative, which proposes a six-point plan for resolving the crisis through dialogue, adding that this initiative could form the basis for a peaceful resolution. The initiative, announced earlier this year, suggests convening an international peace conference with equal participation from all involved parties.
Xi also addressed the escalating violence in the Middle East, particularly in Gaza and Lebanon, calling for a comprehensive ceasefire.
"It is necessary to promote a comprehensive ceasefire in the Gaza Strip... and prevent the war from spreading to Lebanon," he stated, urging the international community to take swift action to prevent the further suffering of Palestinians and Lebanese.
Lastly, Xi highlighted China’s financial commitments to development projects, particularly in the Global South. Over the past three years, the Chinese government has mobilized $20 billion for initiatives stimulating development. He reiterated China's dedication to supporting these countries’ accession to BRICS and reaffirmed China’s commitment to the Global South's progress as a key part of global transformation.
"The Global South thrives through development," he concluded, urging BRICS to lead reform in the global economic governance system.
Egypt’s el-Sisi Calls for Strengthening Global South Cooperation and Urgent Action in the Middle East
During his speech, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi highlighted the importance of international cooperation and dialogue, particularly for the Global South, while urging immediate efforts to address the escalating crises in the Middle East.
El-Sisi expressed Egypt’s appreciation for the BRICS Plus platform, emphasizing its role in fostering cooperation between BRICS nations and the Global South.
"Egypt values BRICS+ as a platform for promoting cooperation and strengthening consultations between the BRICS association and the states of the South," he stated.
He underscored the need for BRICS countries to maximize their interaction with international financial institutions, as well as enhance mutual consultations to counter unilateral policies imposed on developing nations.
Turning to the situation in the Middle East, el-Sisi called for coordinated international efforts to stop the ongoing conflict, particularly in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon. He stressed that the humanitarian crises unfolding in these regions demonstrate the double standards in the current global order.
"The inherent double standards of the current world order, the lack of international legal accountability, and violations of international legal norms have led to unprecedented humanitarian catastrophes in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon," el-Sisi warned.
He urged the international community to take immediate action to contain the escalation and prevent the conflict from turning into a full-scale regional war.
El-Sisi also pointed out that the expansion of the conflict is already impacting international trade, particularly shipping in the Red Sea, and disrupting global supply chains. In his view, this critical moment threatens the entire global order, and one solution lies in the unification and cooperation of Global South nations.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for collective efforts to preserve the effectiveness of the multilateral international system.
Iranian President Pezeshkian Advocates for Fair Global Cooperation and Reform
During the meeting, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized the need for stronger cooperation among BRICS nations to foster a more equitable international system and resist Western sanctions. He highlighted the success of BRICS as a model of global cooperation.
"The BRICS group has managed to become a successful model of cooperation and convergence among countries at regional and international levels," he stated.
Pezeshkian called for collective action to build "a better world," emphasizing that such a vision cannot be achieved by any single nation alone.
He further advocated for BRICS countries to share technological advancements to reduce dependence on the West.
"We must cooperate with each other, we must share developments and technologies among ourselves," he said, stressing that this collaboration is key to countering restrictive measures imposed by Western nations.
Pezeshkian also urged the development of fair and transparent principles for multilateral trade, focusing particularly on the Global South.
One of the central themes of Pezeshkian’s remarks was the role of sanctions in threatening international peace. He criticized the use of unilateral restrictive measures, particularly by the United States and Western countries, for obstructing development processes and hindering global cooperation.
"The introduction of unilateral restrictive measures has threatened international peace," he warned, advocating for BRICS to set an example of equitable cooperation in the face of such challenges.
On a broader scale, Pezeshkian called for the reform of global institutions, such as the UN Security Council, IMF, and human rights organizations, which he argued have lost their effectiveness due to Western interference. He pointed to the inability of international bodies to address the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Palestinian-Israeli crisis and the violence in southern Lebanon.
"The fire of war is still raging in the Palestinian Gaza Strip and in Lebanese cities, and international institutions... cannot extinguish the fire of this crisis," he said.
Moreover, Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of building a world without "sanctions, wars, and genocide," and advocated for using national and digital currencies, as well as strengthening the BRICS New Development Bank, to create a more just international order.
"Using national currencies for trade, new banking platforms, and digital currencies... can create the better world for all," he said.
In his closing remarks, Pezeshkian expressed gratitude to Putin for hosting the summit, calling the Russian leader "a friend" and praising the event's organization. Pezeshkian noted that Iran, participating for the first time as a permanent member of BRICS, was eager to contribute to the association's efforts toward global reform and cooperation.
Turkey Calls for Global Justice, Arms Ban on Israel, and Stronger Anti-Terror Efforts
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed Turkey's belief in the goals of the BRICS framework, emphasizing its potential to contribute to a more just world order and fair trade relations.
"We believe in the goals of BRICS making a unique contribution to the idea of a fairer global system and trade relations. Turkey is one of the founders of many regional organizations and a member of the G20. The mechanisms of our cooperation with many countries are developing every day, and we are determined to improve our dialogue with the BRICS family," Erdogan stated.
In addition to affirming Turkey's commitment to cooperation, Erdogan addressed the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, calling for collective action to end the violence. He urged BRICS+ countries to support a ban on arms supplies to Israel, citing the dire situation in Palestine.
"Until the bloodshed in the Middle East is stopped, there can be no talk of justice and development in the future. Israel's aggressive behavior has long crossed all boundaries, and the Palestinian people are being subjected to genocide. In the 21st century, ignoring this tragedy cannot absolve anyone of responsibility," Erdogan declared.
Moreover, Erdogan announced that Turkey had launched an initiative within the UN to ban arms supplies to Israel.
"We count on the support of you, our friends, in this matter," he said, reinforcing his previous call for a UN arms embargo on Israel, which he believes would be an effective step to end the ongoing aggression.
Shifting focus to domestic matters, Erdogan condemned the recent terrorist attack in Ankara, describing it as "despicable" and a tragedy that had only strengthened Turkey's resolve to fight terrorism. The attack, which took place on Wednesday evening, targeted the state-run aerospace corporation TUSAS and resulted in the deaths of five people and injuries to 22 others.
"I would like to thank all our friends who expressed their condolences in connection with the terrorist act. The dastardly terrorist attack has further strengthened Turkey's determination and desire to eradicate terrorism," Erdogan said.
In these remarks, Erdogan highlighted both Turkey's role in fostering global cooperation within the BRICS framework and its unwavering commitment to addressing critical issues such as regional conflict and terrorism.
Palestine's Abbas Calls for BRICS Partnership and Global Sanctions Against Israeli Occupation
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas expressed on Thursday his hope that Palestine will be accepted into BRICS in the near future.
"We emphasize our desire for the State of Palestine to be accepted into the BRICS union in the near future," Abbas said.
Moreover, Abbas stressed that Palestine wants to strengthen its partnership with BRICS and actively participate in the group's events. He praised BRICS for its growing influence.
"The BRICS countries have come to represent a decisive and influential weight in setting the norms of international peace and security," he added.
In addition to these aspirations, Abbas called for a strong international stance against Israel's recent actions. He condemned Israel's decision to close the office of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in East Jerusalem. At the same BRICS summit, Abbas urged global leaders to exert pressure on Israel to reverse this decision.
Furthermore, he called on the international community to oblige Israel to end its illegal occupation of Palestinian territories within a year.
"We call on the countries of the world… to compel the occupying authorities (Israel) to end their illegal presence on the lands of the State of Palestine within one year, and if they do not comply, to impose sanctions against them," Abbas reiterated.
During his speech, he also accused Israel of committing ethnic cleansing and genocide in the Gaza Strip, urging decisive global action to address these crimes.
Congo Backs BRICS Plus Aspirations for a Just Global Order and Sustainable Development
The Republic of Congo fully supports the aspirations of BRICS Plus and is eager to contribute to its mission of fostering global peace, inclusive progress, and multilateralism. President Denis Sassou Nguesso expressed Congo’s particular interest in the association’s goals, which align with the needs of the Global South.
"The Republic of Congo expresses particular interest in the goals set by the BRICS Plus countries, namely to promote inclusive and sustainable development and to actively contribute to the successful fulfillment of this crucial mission," said the president.
Furthermore, Sassou Nguesso emphasized the importance of culture and education in strengthening ties between BRICS Plus member countries.
"Apart from similar economic interests, our countries are united by culture, which strengthens the friendship between our peoples," he noted, calling for joint initiatives in education and culture to enhance intercultural dialogue.
Congo’s longstanding commitment to environmental protection was another focal point of the president’s speech. Highlighting Congo’s central role in the Congo River Basin, Sassou Nguesso urged deeper cooperation among BRICS Plus nations in preserving ecosystems and biodiversity.
"For more than half a century, we have been protecting the environment as part of the fight against climate change. I urge us to deepen our cooperation in the name of preserving ecosystems and biodiversity," he stated.
In addition to environmental and cultural collaboration, Sassou Nguesso stressed the importance of reforming global financial institutions to better serve the needs of developing nations. He praised BRICS Plus for advocating alternative financial mechanisms that could lead to a more just and prosperous world order.
"The countries of the South advocate for the creation of alternative global financial mechanisms that would manage the global economy more fairly and align with our legitimate national interests," the president said, emphasizing the need for a new world order that reflects current economic realities.
Finally, the president called on BRICS Plus nations to support Congo's resolution at the UN General Assembly for an international decade of forest conservation and restoration, underscoring Congo’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Brazil’s Foreign Minister Calls for BRICS Involvement in AI Regulation and Global Peace Efforts
Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira urged BRICS countries to take an active role in regulating artificial intelligence (AI) and addressing global conflicts during the BRICS Plus/Outreach meeting.
Vieira emphasized that BRICS members cannot remain passive observers as AI technology evolves.
"We BRICS countries cannot feel complacent in the position of observers regarding the evolution of AI. We must take direct participation in its regulation," he stated, calling for collaboration to ensure BRICS nations are not left behind in the digital revolution.
In addition to technological concerns, Vieira stressed the importance of de-escalation in major global conflicts, starting with Ukraine.
"Avoiding escalation is also crucial in the Ukraine conflict. This is the message that Brazil and China, along with 11 other countries, are trying to spread," he said, referring to a "peace club" created to facilitate dialogue and seek a long-term solution based on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Moreover, Vieira turned attention to the Middle East, warning of the dangers of escalation, particularly in Lebanon. He noted that peace in the region depends on the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
"There will be no peace in the region until there is an independent Palestinian state," Vieira said, urging caution to prevent the conflict from spiraling into a "total war."
Vieira concluded that achieving peace in these regions is essential to refocus global efforts on solving pressing issues such as AI regulation and other challenges of the modern era.
Venezuelan President Calls for BRICS-Led Financial Reforms and UN Restructuring
Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro, speaking during the 16th BRICS summit in Kazan, highlighted the need for bold financial reforms and restructuring of global institutions.
Maduro expressed strong support for BRICS’ efforts to move away from payment systems that have been used as tools of aggression.
“Venezuela welcomes... more bold steps within BRICS, so that... countries of the Global South... advance in creating a new payment system that would replace those sometimes used as weapons and for aggression," he stated.
Maduro also emphasized the role Venezuela can play in building a multipolar world, pledging the country's support for Russia and BRICS in realizing this vision.
"Mr. President Vladimir Putin, you can count on the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to realize this historic project," he said, reiterating the ideas of former leader Hugo Chávez about a multipolar and polycentric world.
In addition to financial reforms, Maduro voiced strong criticism of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the broader international justice system, accusing them of targeting Global South nations.
"Where is the ICC? Or is it only used to persecute countries of the Global South? Where is the concern for the lives of women and children in the Global South?" Maduro asked, referencing the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.
Moreover, he proposed that BRICS countries work together to develop a plan for reforming the United Nations system to address new global realities.
"Let's seek a practical and bold plan to reform the UN system," he urged, calling BRICS the "epicenter of the emergence of a new world based on deeply humane principles."
Finally, Maduro stressed the importance of strengthening the New Development Bank of BRICS, advocating for enhanced opportunities for the Global South.
"Venezuela welcomes and emphasizes the need to take bolder steps to consolidate the activities of the New Development Bank of BRICS," he added, urging for alternatives to the financial systems dominated by Western countries.
