Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira on Tuesday emphasized BRICS’ commitment to multilateralism and a balanced global order, as foreign ministers from the 11-member bloc wrapped up two days of meetings in Rio de Janeiro.
In a news conference following the talks, Vieira delivered a statement on behalf of Brazil’s rotating BRICS presidency, outlining the bloc’s priorities, including strengthening international cooperation and amplifying the voice of the Global South.
While avoiding direct mention of the United States, BRICS ministers expressed concern over rising protectionist measures, which they said violate World Trade Organization rules.
“It is not in the interest of Brazil or our BRICS partners to live in a fractured world,” Vieira said. “We need to strengthen multilateralism and cooperation as tools to address contemporary challenges.”
The expanded BRICS bloc — which now includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Ethiopia and Argentina — met formally for the first time since its enlargement in 2024.
Ministers also discussed the group’s role in promoting peace and resolving conflicts through diplomacy, while reaffirming the importance of a stronger and more representative United Nations.
“There was broad agreement on the urgency of reforming the Security Council to make it more representative, legitimate and effective, especially with greater participation from Africa, Asia and Latin America,” Vieira said.
The foreign ministers’ meeting serves as a precursor to the 16th BRICS Summit, scheduled to be held in Rio de Janeiro in July, where heads of state from all member nations are expected to attend.