BRICS must show leadership on terrorism and global economy:PM Modi

AT the informal meeting of BRICS countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it is time for BRICS to show leadership in fighting terrorism and playing a major role in the global economy.

"BRICS has been a strong voice and needs to show leadership on terrorism and global economy.G-20 should collectively oppose terrorism financing, franchises, safe havens, support and sponsors," Prime Minister Modi said during an informal meeting of leaders of the five emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa on Friday on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit n Hamburg.

The meeting was in run up to the forthcoming Ninth BRICS Summit in September in Xiamen, China. President Xi of China said he looked forward to welcoming the BRICS leaders.

In their interventions, the leaders discussed preparations and priorities for the forthcoming Xiamen BRICS Summit.

Referring to reforms in India, including the recent introduction of GST, PM Modi stated ,"It was necessary to work together for sustained global economic recovery. He advocated collective voice against the practices of protectionism, especially in the spheres of trade and movement of knowledge and professionals."

The Prime Minister reiterated India's commitment to implementing Paris Agreement in letter and spirit and described its implementation globally as essential to fighting climate change. He called for expeditious action to establish BRICS rating agency and stated that cooperation on development of Africa should be a priority. He also called for greater people-to-people exchanges.

The Prime Minister appreciated momentum in BRICS under the Chairmanship of President Xi and extended full cooperation and best wishes for the BRICS Xiamen Summit.

Concluding the meeting immediately after PM's remarks, President Xi appreciated India's strong resolve against terrorism and the momentum in BRICS introduced under India's Chairmanship and through the outcomes of the Goa Summit in 2016. He also appreciated India's success in economic and social development and wished India even bigger success.

-ANI