Johannesburg hosted the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders’ Meeting, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong case for the urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), terming it an “imperative.” He asserted that the existing global governance architecture is lagging far behind the demands of the contemporary world.
During the summit, PM Modi emphasized the strategic importance of close collaboration on counter-terrorism efforts, insisting on a firm stance against any form of ‘terrorism double standards.’ He also highlighted the unique capacity of IBSA to influence the development of AI norms that prioritize safety, trust, and human-centric principles.
A key proposal from the Prime Minister was the formation of the ‘IBSA Digital Innovation Alliance.’ This platform would enable member nations to share innovative Digital Public Infrastructure, including India’s successful UPI payment system and its CoWIN health platform. Modi described IBSA as a potent force, uniting three continents, major democracies, and key economies.
The Ministry of External Affairs reported that Modi stressed the disconnect between current global institutions and 21st-century realities. He further elaborated on IBSA’s role in shaping ethical AI development, focusing on safe, trustworthy, and human-centric standards.
“IBSA nations can mutually benefit from each other’s development trajectories and serve as a beacon for sustainable growth,” the MEA stated. Areas identified for deeper cooperation include climate-resilient agriculture, disaster management, renewable energy, traditional healing practices, and public health security.
Commending the IBSA Fund’s dedication to supporting development projects across 40 nations in fields such as education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment, Prime Minister Modi proposed a new ‘IBSA Fund for Climate Resilient Agriculture’ to bolster South-South cooperation.
PM Modi’s visit to Johannesburg, preceding the G20 Summit, was marked by his appreciation for the hospitality extended by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This trip marked his fourth official visit to the nation, building on previous engagements for bilateral meetings and BRICS summits.
The summit’s location in Johannesburg is particularly significant as South Africa hosts the inaugural G20 Summit held on the African continent. This event follows the historic inclusion of the African Union as a G20 member during India’s G20 presidency in 2023.