PM Modi at BRICS Summit: Global South Faces Double Standards on Development and Resources

Speaking at the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the Global South has been offered little more than symbolic promises when it comes to climate finance, sustainable development, and access to technology.

He pointed out that developing nations continue to face double standards—whether it's in development, resource distribution, or global security.

“The Global South has mostly been handed token gestures,” Modi said, addressing world leaders at the high-level gathering. “India remains fully committed to working with BRICS countries to make meaningful progress on these issues.”

He also emphasized that India has always believed in putting humanity first, even above its own national interests.

On the topic of BRICS expansion, Modi welcomed the addition of new member countries, saying it reflects the group’s ability to evolve with the times.

Originally made up of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS expanded in 2024 to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE. Indonesia became the latest country to join in 2025.

Modi arrived in Brazil on Saturday night as part of the fourth leg of his five-nation tour, which has already taken him to Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Argentina.