BRICS meet ends with chair statement amid UAE-Iran rift

New Delhi: The BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Delhi failed to produce a joint statement following tensions between Iran and the UAE, along with sharp exchanges between the two sides during the two-day event.

As BRICS chair, India issued a chair statement and without naming Iran or the UAE, said that some members had differing views on the situation in West Asia. However, the statement pointed out that all BRICS members favoured an early resolution of the crisis through dialogue and diplomacy.

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"There were differing views among some members regarding the situation in the West Asia/Middle East region. BRICS members expressed their respective national positions and shared a range of perspectives. Views articulated by them included the need for an early resolution of the current crisis, the value of dialogue and diplomacy, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, upholding international law, the importance of the safe and unimpeded flow of maritime commerce through international waterways, and the protection of civilian infrastructure and civilian lives. The impact of recent developments on the global economic situation was stressed by many members," read the statement.

Iran's foreign minister accused the UAE of direct involvement in military operations against his country during the BRICS meeting on Thursday, according to Iranian state media. During his meeting with S Jaishankar on Friday, Araqchi also hinted at safe navigation for Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Addressing MEA briefing on BRICS FM Meeting, Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations), MEA, said: "All BRICS members and partner countries are very appreciative and supportive of India's chairship priorities under the theme 'Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability'. Building on deliberations in last two days and based on discussions, we have issued a chair statement and outcome document. It captures the common position of BRICS members on almost all subjects under the three pillars of the BRICS strategic partnership."