By Neo Bodumela
Kazan, Russia: President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the BRICS bloc of countries as a beacon of hope for countries in the global South.
The President was delivering remarks at a plenary session of the BRICS Summit currently underway in Kazan, Russia.
The now expanded BRICS bloc of countries includes Brazil, Russia, China, India, South Africa, as well as newly minted Member States Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
This makes it one of the most powerful blocs on the global stage, with 3% of the world’s population, 32% of the world’s land area, around 35% of global GDP and 20% of world exports.
“Fifteen years ago, South Africa attended its first BRICS Summit in Sanya, China. Today, we gather as a group of nine leading emerging countries. Our historic expansion is a beacon of hope for the global South.
“Individually, we are countries of diverse histories, values and strengths. Together, we demonstrate the benefits of cooperation instead of competition. As an increasingly influential group, we must ensure the success of this expanded group,” he said.
The President called on the influential bloc to use its voice to advance global change – particularly on the resolution of international conflicts that require “a UN Security Council that is representative and inclusive”.
“We see from many conflicts raging across the world that the UN Security Council has not fulfilled its mandate to maintain international peace and security. It does not represent the interests of the global community, and therefore does not have the means to give effect to the global desire for peace.
“Just as BRICS has a vital role in shaping a new multipolar world order, so too must it use its voice to advance change.
“We found consensus on the reform of the UN Security Council when we met in Johannesburg last year. Let us build on that foundation to develop an improved consensus that addresses the concerns and aspirations of all BRICS members,” President Ramaphosa said.
On the plight of the Palestinian people, President Ramaphosa emphasised that the South African government remains “gravely concerned at the further escalation of a conflict that has already caused so much death and destruction”.
“The International Court of Justice has made it clear that the international community has a duty to prevent genocide by Israel. The countries of the world have a responsibility not to fund or facilitate Israel’s genocidal actions.
“As the UN General Assembly has now resolved, the countries of the world have a responsibility to promote the realisation of the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination. Lasting peace and security will not be achieved until Palestinians have realised their aspirations for statehood, justice and freedom.
“Peace and security across the world requires the collective will of the community of nations. It requires a UN Security Council that is representative and inclusive,” he said – SAnews.gov.za
