Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his address by praising the role of BRICS amid the Coronavirus pandemic, "BRICS has been able to continue working on its speed even during a global pandemic".
"The theme of this BRICS Summit is Global Stability, Shared Security, and Innovative Growth. It is not just contemporary but also futuristic. The world is seeing major geostrategic changes, effects of which will continue on stability, security, and growth," he added.
The PM reiterated his concerns over the work of several world organisations by saying that "India feels that reforms in the UN Security Council are very important. We expect support from our BRICS partners on this issue. Several other international organizations aren't functioning according to the contemporary realities. Institutions such as WTO, IMF, WHO need improvement".
PM Modi in his speech hit at the menace of terrorism that is being witnessed across the world. "Terrorism is the biggest problem in the world today. We must ensure that countries that give protection and support to terrorists are equally blamed and we jointly face this challenge," he said.
He praised the role of Russia's leadership stating that under it, BRICS' counter-terrorism strategy has been given its final touch and India will take it forward during its leadership.
Talking about the Coronavirus crisis, the Prime Minister highlighted the strength of India's pharma sector and said that due to it, "we were able to provide medicines to over 150 countries during Covid-lockdown era".
"Our vaccine production and delivery ability will help mankind in the same way," he added.
"During its leadership of BRICS, India will promote digital health and traditional medicine among BRICS countries," PM Modi said as he concluded his speech.
The 12th Brics summit is being virtually hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin. It is being held on the theme of 'Global stability, shared security and innovative growth'.