United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for peace in Gaza, the wider Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan and other conflict zones while addressing the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Sunday.
“With our world facing conflicts from Gaza to Ukraine, Sudan and beyond, we need peace,” Guterres said, stressing that peace is essential for achieving inclusive global growth.
Guterres urged all states to fulfil their obligations under the UN Charter and international law. He called for respect for sovereign equality, territorial integrity and political independence, peaceful dispute resolution, freedom of navigation and international humanitarian and human rights law.
The summit brought together leaders from countries directly involved in regional conflicts, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. Russian President Vladimir Putin attended the summit amid the continuing Ukraine conflict.
Guterres highlighted the need for resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability, echoing the theme of India’s BRICS chairship under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said these principles are essential for building inclusive global growth, with peace forming a crucial foundation.
The BRICS joint declaration adopted on Saturday reflected several of Guterres’ concerns.
The 11-member grouping expressed deep concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East and called on all sides to exercise maximum restraint.
BRICS leaders backed the Gaza ceasefire, Palestinian rights and opposed displacement. They further called for an immediate, permanent ceasefire in Sudan.
The declaration did not directly mention Ukraine, unlike last year’s Brazil summit declaration.
Guterres’ appeal came as BRICS leaders sought greater cooperation on global challenges, with peace and stability emerging as key issues alongside economic growth and sustainable development.
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