New Delhi, Sept. 11 -- External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has warned that the global political and economic order is undergoing significant change, with countries facing greater uncertainty and disruption. Speaking at the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi, he said the current environment required countries to strengthen resilience, deepen cooperation and build greater capacity to withstand global shocks. Jaishankar said geopolitical tensions, economic disruptions and changes in global supply chains were creating new challenges for businesses and governments. Against this backdrop, he emphasised the importance of stronger economic partnerships among BRICS countries and more dependable supply chains.
He highlighted resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability as the key priorities of India's BRICS chairship. According to him, these priorities are particularly relevant at a time when the international system is experiencing considerable uncertainty. The minister also called for a more predictable business environment across BRICS economies. He stressed the need for diversified trade relationships, reliable logistics and stronger cross-border economic linkages so that member countries are better equipped to absorb external shocks. Jaishankar underlined the role of technology and digitalisation in creating new economic opportunities. He said BRICS countries should make greater use of innovation and emerging technologies while strengthening their domestic capabilities.
Self-reliance, he indicated, should not mean isolation but greater resilience and the ability to withstand disruptions. Stronger domestic capacities, combined with deeper cooperation among BRICS members, could help countries respond more effectively to global economic shocks. The minister also stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between governments and the private sector. The BRICS Business Forum provides a platform for businesses from member countries to explore new markets, investment opportunities and partnerships.
Discussions at the forum have focused on areas including resilient supply chains, trade, investment, technology, cross-border payment systems and the greater use of national currencies. The expansion of cooperation in startups and innovation has also emerged as an important area for BRICS members. Jaishankar's remarks come ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, where leaders of the expanded grouping are expected to discuss global economic challenges, development, trade and reforms to international institutions.
India is hosting the summit under its 2026 BRICS chairship, with the country seeking to focus the grouping on practical cooperation while giving greater voice to the concerns of developing and emerging economies. The summit is taking place amid heightened geopolitical tensions and uncertainty in the global economy, adding significance to discussions on economic resilience and cooperation. The BRICS grouping has expanded considerably in recent years and now represents a significant share of the world's population and economy. However, its members have differing political and economic interests, making consensus on major international issues a continuing challenge. The New Delhi summit is therefore expected to test the bloc's ability to translate its growing economic weight into practical cooperation.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.