Kazan, October 24, 2024 – The Europe Today: The BRICS nations have strongly opposed and condemned politically motivated sanctions that hinder the development of other states, according to a joint declaration adopted at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan. The declaration, titled “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,” was released on Wednesday after a series of multi-format meetings by BRICS leaders.
The Kazan Declaration, spanning 33 pages, expressed deep concern over the negative impact of unlawful unilateral coercive measures, including illegal sanctions, on the global economy, international trade, and progress towards achieving sustainable development goals. The declaration emphasized that such actions violate World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, undermine the UN Charter, and pose a threat to the multilateral trading system.
The BRICS leaders highlighted how these sanctions adversely affect economic growth, energy, health, and food security, exacerbating poverty and environmental challenges. The document further noted that these measures disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and infringe upon human rights, including the right to development.
The declaration urged for the elimination of such sanctions and reaffirmed the BRICS commitment to multilateralism and cooperation, despite mounting Western sanctions, particularly against Russia. The declaration follows the increasing economic ties among BRICS nations, despite Western restrictions on Russia, which include freezing assets and sanctions targeting various sectors.
Moscow has condemned these sanctions as illegal and has implemented its own countermeasures, while some Western politicians have acknowledged the limitations and diminishing effectiveness of sanctions against Russia.
