During the BRICS summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of inclusive technology adoption to counter potential negative impacts from weaponizing critical minerals and highlighted the need for reliable supply chains.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the BRICS summit on Sunday, expressed concerns about the possible detrimental effects of weaponizing critical minerals and technology on the shared progress of the grouping's nations. Although he did not explicitly name any country, Modi's comment was made amid growing concerns over China increasing export controls on certain critical minerals and rare earth elements since 2023.
In April 2025, China imposed export controls on specific heavy rare earth elements, expanding the list in October. These essential minerals are integral for manufacturing advanced technology products and defence equipment.
The BRICS grouping encompasses India, Brazil, Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. Modi underscored the increase in conflicts and geopolitical tensions as having a 'negative and far-reaching impact on the lives of ordinary people'.
Recognizing pandemics, climate disasters, and supply-chain disruptions, Modi emphasized that 'in an interconnected world, no crisis remains confined to a single region'. Therefore, he highlighted the importance of strengthening resilience among BRICS nations.
The members agreed to create an integrated early warning system for infectious diseases prevention and response. According to Modi, 'early warning data integration guidelines have been prepared for disaster management'. Additionally, a logistics supply chain cooperation framework was discussed to enhance the reliability and resilience of supply chains.
Modi also mentioned that in their declaration on Saturday, BRICS members affirmed the need to promote reliable, diversified, fair, and just supply chains of critical minerals. This action is aimed at 'guaranteeing benefit sharing, value addition, and economic diversification in resource-rich countries' while preserving 'sovereign rights' over their resources.
BRICS members also concurred on the right to adopt, maintain, and enforce measures 'necessary to pursue legitimate public policy objectives'.
Source:
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