New Delhi: India released a chair’s statement on Friday after BRICS foreign ministers failed to agree on common diplomatic language regarding the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The development came during the two-day BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting held in New Delhi, where divisions within the grouping once again surfaced over the regional crisis.
According to the statement, “There were differing views among some members as regard to the situation in the West Asia/Middle East region. BRICS members expressed their respective national positions and shared a range of perspectives”.
The statement further said, “Views articulated by them included the need for an early resolution of the current crisis, the value of dialogue and diplomacy, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, upholding international law, the importance of safe and unimpeded flow of maritime commerce through international waterways, and the protection of civilian infrastructure and civilian lives. The impact of recent developments on the global economic situation was stressed by many members.”
Divisions within BRICS continue
The BRICS grouping has struggled to develop a unified stand on the West Asia conflict because Iran and the United Arab Emirates remain on different sides of the issue. Both countries joined BRICS recently and have failed to agree on a common wording regarding the conflict.
India, which currently chairs the grouping, chose to release a chair’s statement instead of a joint declaration due to the lack of consensus among members.
India balances diplomatic ties
New Delhi has tried to maintain a careful balance between Tehran and Abu Dhabi during the ongoing crisis. India avoided taking sides publicly while stressing the need for dialogue and stability in the region.
In March, Iran had approached India seeking a BRICS statement condemning recent US and Israeli strikes on Iranian territory. The request placed India in a difficult diplomatic position because of its strategic relations with both Gulf countries and Western partners, The Indian Express had reported.
Focus on energy and maritime security
India also raised concerns about disruptions to energy infrastructure and the effect of unilateral sanctions during discussions. Iran has targeted energy infrastructure in the Gulf region, including facilities linked to the UAE, while Tehran itself has faced attacks on its own energy sites from the US and Israel.
Iran has also accused the UAE of hosting American military bases and personnel.
