BRICS Consensus on Middle East Conflict

BRICS Joint Declaration on West Asia Conflict

Overview:

• The BRICS summit resulted in a joint declaration addressing the recent conflict in West Asia (involving the US and Iran), following extensive diplomatic negotiations by Indian officials.

Key Diplomatic Efforts:

• The negotiations spanned nearly 100 hours and were informed by previous Sherpa meetings in Delhi (February and May 2023) and involved extensive communication with member countries.
• Indian diplomats used their diverse expertise to foster dialogue, including outreach by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and high-level ministers.

Significant Dates and Meetings:

• First BRICS Sherpas meeting: February 9-11, 2023, in New Delhi outlined priorities under India’s chairmanship.
• Second Sherpas’ meeting: May 11-13, 2023 - noted a shift in dynamics between the UAE and Iran.
• Meetings between Modi and world leaders (including the UAE and Iranian presidents) in May and June laid the groundwork for BRICS consensus.

Ceasefire and Negotiations:

• A 60-day ceasefire between the US and Iran created a temporary opportunity for diplomatic engagement.
• Discussion included territories, civilian protections, and a united front against escalation in the Middle East.

Final Declaration and Content:

• The declaration, referred to as Paragraph 28, displays collective concern over rising tensions and endorses maximum restraint.
• Key points:
  • Emphasizes the need to protect civilians and infrastructure.
  • Calls for diplomatic dialogue towards lasting peace and stability in the region.
  • Encourages smooth trade and energy flow in accordance with international law.

References to Constitutional and International Law:

• Emphasizes adherence to UN Charter principles, specifically regarding sovereignty and territorial integrity of states.

Roles of Key Diplomatic Personnel:

• Sudhakar Dalela: BRICS Sherpa and leader in negotiations; extensive experience in diplomacy with a background in trade policy.
• Shambhu Lingappa Hakki: Sous Sherpa, key in managing communications; fluent in Mandarin.
• Dr. Basir Ahmad: Joint Secretary focused on multilateral economic relations.
• Rajiv Bodwade and Mini Devi Kumam: Contributing to the MER division in key roles during negotiations.

International Involvement:

• China and Russia played critical roles in facilitating the agreements, with support from Brazil and Egypt.

Potential Outcomes:

• The declaration aims to preserve regional stability and protect global economic interests amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Summary:

The efforts culminated in a carefully crafted BRICS joint declaration that calls for a collective approach to mitigate conflict in West Asia, exemplifying significant diplomatic engagement and collaboration among member nations, and underscoring the relevance of international law in regional disputes.