The BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting held on September 27, 2018, in New York was part of a series of regular meetings among the foreign ministers of BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). This particular meeting took place on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The 2018 BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting was particularly significant as it took place during a time of increasing global tensions, trade disputes, and challenges to multilateralism.

Venue and Timing

The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. This timing allowed the BRICS nations to coordinate their positions on key global issues before engaging with the broader international community at the UNGA.

Key Participants

1. Brazil: Aloysio Nunes, Minister of Foreign Affairs
2. Russia: Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs
3. India: Sushma Swaraj, Minister of External Affairs
4. China: Wang Yi, State Councilor and Foreign Minister
5. South Africa: Lindiwe Sisulu, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation

Main Agenda Items

1. Multilateralism and UN Reform

• The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and the central role of the United Nations in international affairs.
• They discussed the need for comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security Council, to make it more representative and effective.

2. Global Economic Governance

• The group addressed the importance of an open world economy and the multilateral trading system.
• They expressed concern over the rise of protectionist measures and emphasized the need for inclusive growth.

3. Counter-Terrorism Efforts

• The ministers condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
• They called for expeditious finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the UN.

4. Sustainable Development and Climate Change

• Discussions included the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change.
• The ministers emphasized the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities in addressing climate change.

5. Regional Issues

• The group exchanged views on various regional issues, including the situation in Syria, the Middle East peace process, and the Iran nuclear deal.

Outcomes and Joint Statement

Following the meeting, the BRICS foreign ministers issued a joint statement highlighting their shared positions on global issues. Key points included:

• Commitment to strengthening and reforming global governance
• Support for multilateralism and the rules-based international order
• Emphasis on BRICS cooperation in various fields, including economy, finance, and people-to-people exchanges
• Call for peaceful resolution of conflicts and disputes through dialogue and consultation

Significance

This meeting was important for several reasons:

1. It demonstrated the BRICS countries’ united front on key global issues.
2. It provided a platform for these emerging economies to voice their concerns and aspirations in the international arena.
3. The timing, coinciding with the UNGA, allowed BRICS to potentially influence broader UN discussions.
4. It reinforced the group’s commitment to multilateralism at a time when it was facing challenges from various quarters.

The 2018 BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting thus played a crucial role in shaping the group’s collective stance on pressing global matters and in strengthening cooperation among these influential emerging economies.