New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday called for BRICS nations and other friendly nations to contribute to strengthening a multipolar world. He delivered the remarks at the BRICS Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue, which was held during the BRICS Summit in South Africa's Johannesburg.
Speaking on India-Africa relations, Modi said that India has deployed over 4000 peacemakers in Africa for peacekeeping missions, adding that India has also been working with African nations against terrorism and piracy.
"India has given high importance to relations with Africa. We have opened 16 new missions in Africa. Today, India is Africa's fourth largest trade partner and the fifth largest investor," said PM Modi while addressing the session during the BRICS Summit.
“In collaboration with African countries, we are working on joint manufacturing of Covid and other vaccines,” he further stated.
Meanwhile, South African President and BRICS Chair Cyril Ramaphosa has announced that the group has adopted the Johannesburg Declaration 2, inviting Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE to become full members of the bloc from January 1, 2024.
"We have decided to invite Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE to become full members of BRICS. New members will become part of BRICS with effect from January 1, 2024," Ramaphosa said.
Modi said India has always supported BRICS expansion and that it has "deep and historic" ties with those countries who have membership.
"India has always supported the expansion of BRICS. India has always believed that adding new members will strengthen BRICS as an organisation," PM Modi said.
Before departing from Johannesburg on Thursday, Modi will meet with prominent personalities and attend a luncheon hosted by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.