India has welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) reached between the United States and Iran. Addressing the 16th BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting in New Delhi, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval said that the development will strengthen energy security around the world. He also welcomed the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and highlighted that it will help remove supply chain bottlenecks and address shortages of commodities such as fertilisers and chemicals. Mr Doval underlined that greater freedom of navigation in the region and beyond will contribute to economic prosperity.
Mr Doval said the world is passing through a tumultuous period marked by military conflicts, geopolitical uncertainties, economic strains and disruptive technologies. Highlighting the emerging security concerns, the NSA said non-traditional threats have transcended national borders and developed capabilities that challenge conventional responses. He also identified innovative disruptive technologies, increasingly camouflaged forms of terrorism, and cyber threats in an increasingly digitised world as major challenges requiring collective attention.
Mr Doval highlighted that the BRICS nations, despite representing different continents and experiences, have a special role to play in a world undergoing rapid change, where traditional instruments of conflict resolution are becoming less effective. He said it was important for the grouping to deliberate on the role it can play in addressing these evolving challenges.
Referring to the role of BRICS, Mr Doval said the grouping was conceived as an informal coalition of emerging economies to promote a more multipolar world order, strengthen economic cooperation, and amplify the voice of the Global South. He said that BRICS also envisioned reforms in global governance and institutional improvements.
