The summit declaration denounced the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir that triggered a military escalation between India and Pakistan

Terrorism has become the "most serious challenge" for humanity, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while addressing the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Sunday. He called on the group to condemn terrorism and show no hesitation in sanctioning terrorists.

Referring to the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, in which 26 people lost their lives, Modi described it as a "direct attack on the soul, identity, and dignity of India."

"This attack was a blow not only to India but to all of humanity," he said, thanking the friendly countries "who stood with us, who expressed support and condolences."

"Condemning terrorism should be our 'principle,' not just a 'convenience,'" Modi emphasized. "For personal or political gain, giving silent consent to terrorism - supporting terror or terrorists - should not be acceptable under any circumstances."

The BRICS leaders on Sunday condemned the Pahalgam attack and echoed India's position on adopting a "zero tolerance" approach toward terrorism and rejecting double standards in countering it.

"We reaffirm our commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing, and safe havens. We urge the adoption of zero tolerance for terrorism and reject double standards in countering it," the declaration stated. The document also welcomed ongoing counter-terrorism cooperation among BRICS nations.

India has previously blamed Pakistan for supporting cross-border terrorism and has linked the Pahalgam attack to Islamabad, triggering an unprecedented diplomatic and military standoff in May this year.

Pakistan has denied the allegations, claiming it is itself a "victim of terrorism." Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asifadmittedthat Islamabad had done "the dirty work" for Western powers - particularly the US and the UK - by training and arming terrorists for three decades. He added, however, that this "was a mistake" and that Pakistan has "suffered for that."

While addressing the summit's opening session, Modi also stressed the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in global institutions to address the marginalization of the Global South.

"The Global South has often faced double standards. Whether it's about development, the distribution of resources, or security-related matters, the interests of the Global South have not been given due importance. On topics like climate finance, sustainable development, and technology access, the Global South has often received nothing more than token gestures," he stated.

India is set to host the next BRICS summit in 2026, according to the joint statement.

(RT.com)