Brics consensus on Middle East elusive because of sharp differences, government backs Palestine cause | India News
A BRICS meeting of Middle East officials last week failed to produce a consensus document because of sharp differences of position among members on the conflicting sides, official sources said.According to the Indian authorities, all other efforts to fill the gap have not been successful. India holds the BRICS presidency this year and will host the foreign ministers’ meeting next month ahead of the summit later this year. A joint statement could not be issued at a meeting of junior foreign ministers and special envoys last week due to lack of consensus.Instead, a chair’s statement was issued stating that members expressed deep concern about the recent conflict in the Middle East and offered views and assessments on the matter. Discussions covered the Palestinian issue and the situation in Gaza, the humanitarian aid system, the role of UNRWA, the zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, including welcoming the ceasefire in Lebanon.While Iran has sought BRICS solidarity against the US and Iran, urging India to work towards a consensus, a joint statement has remained elusive with the UAE and Saudi Arabia – parties to the conflict – also in the grouping of major emerging economies. Official sources also denied any erosion of India’s position on the Palestinian issue, reiterating that India is committed to a 2-state solution.“On the Palestine issue, India recently reached an agreed position with the Arab League, including Palestine, on January 26. India has been clear in its support for a two-state solution,” a source said, adding that many BRICS countries supported the Sharm Al-Sheikh peace conference and UNSC Resolution 2803 which endorsed a comprehensive plan to end the conflict in Gaza 20. Peace Board.According to official sources, these have been significant developments in the last year.Since the start of the conflict in Gaza, India has provided around 70 MT of humanitarian aid, including 16.5 MT of medicines and medical supplies in two phases. It released $5 million last year and another $5 million this year to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Recently, 65 tons of medicines were also sent to UNRWA and the Palestinian Ministry of Health in October and November 2024.According to Indian authorities, India’s policy towards Palestine is longstanding and includes support for a negotiated 2-state solution, and the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine within secure and recognized borders, living side by side in peace with Israel. India also supports Palestine’s UN membership.
