Sat Sep 27 16:56:31 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**BRICS Nations Unite Against Protectionism and Condemn Attacks on Qatar, Iran, and Palestine**

**UNITED NATIONS, September 27, 2025** – The BRICS group of nations, now comprising 11 emerging markets, issued a strong statement today condemning protectionism, tariff volatility, and recent attacks in the Middle East. The meeting, hosted by Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, highlighted growing concerns about unilateral trade measures and escalating conflicts.

The group criticized rising protectionism and tariff volatility as disruptive to global trade flows, advocating for the defense of the multilateral trading system. While the statement avoided explicitly naming the United States, it alluded to the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, which have significantly altered global trade dynamics. The BRICS nations also rejected climate-related unilateral tariffs, such as Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms, expressing concerns about their impact on trade relationships, particularly with countries like India.

Beyond trade, the BRICS ministers condemned Israel’s recent airstrike on Qatar, labeling it a violation of sovereignty and international law. They also voiced “grave concerns” over Israeli attacks on Palestine, citing the “unprecedented suffering” of the civilian population in Gaza, where over 65,000 people have died since October 2023. The group called for an immediate ceasefire, urging Israel to withdraw troops and halt attacks. They reiterated their support for a two-state solution, including recognizing a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and reaffirmed support for UNRWA. The group also called for the release of the remaining October 7 hostages.

The statement also condemned attacks on Iran’s civilian infrastructure and nuclear facilities, emphasizing the need for nuclear safety and supporting diplomatic initiatives in the region.

Notably, the BRICS statement lacked the phrase “territorial integrity” in its call to uphold the U.N. Charter, a term India has often used in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Looking ahead, BRICS countries advocated for more equitable representation at the UN and reforms to multilateral organizations, including the UN Security Council and the Bretton Woods institutions. India is set to chair BRICS in 2026, focusing on food and energy security, climate change, development, digital technology, and startups.

**About BRICS:**

Originally comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, the BRICS group has expanded to include 11 members, representing a significant portion of the global economy and emerging markets. The group aims to foster cooperation and advocate for a more equitable and representative global order.

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