Jaishankar Highlights BRICS' Formation and Evolution Amid G7's Exclusion

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized that BRICS was formed in response to G7's exclusivity and has since evolved significantly. During a Geneva visit, he discussed the expanding BRICS membership and the necessity of its existence alongside G20. Jaishankar also met with various international leaders and paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated on Thursday that one of the primary reasons behind the formation of BRICS was the exclusionary stance of G7 nations. He highlighted that BRICS, now a prominent forum of emerging economies, created its own niche over time. 'Because there was another club, called the G7, which didn't allow others in, we decided to form our own. As it developed, it gained significance and others saw its value as well,' Jaishankar addressed during an interaction at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy in Switzerland.

In response to queries from Jean David Levitte, former Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations, Jaishankar elaborated on BRICS' expansion. 'Last year in Johannesburg, South Africa, we decided to expand BRICS, nearly doubling its members by inviting more countries. Our next meeting will be in Kazan, Russia, next month. As I travel globally, I observe increasing enthusiasm and interest from various nations to associate with BRICS,' he added.

Addressing questions on BRICS' relevance given the G20's existence, Jaishankar commented on the North's apparent insecurities regarding BRICS. 'If the G7 still exists despite the formation of the G20, then why can't BRICS coexist with the G20? The G7 meetings haven't ceased, so the presence of G20 doesn't negate the value of BRICS,' he remarked.

Earlier, Jaishankar began his Geneva visit by paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. 'Started my visit by paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi. In today's polarized world, Bapu's message of harmony and sustainability is more pertinent than ever,' he posted on X.

During his Geneva stay, Jaishankar will meet the Swiss Foreign Minister to discuss bilateral ties and explore collaborative opportunities. Geneva hosts numerous international organizations and UN bodies, and Jaishankar is scheduled to meet their representatives as India continues its active engagement.

Jaishankar's visit to Switzerland follows his trips to Germany and Saudi Arabia.

(With inputs from agencies.)