by Q. Consider the following statements regarding BRICS:
UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2025 – General Studies Paper I
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) I and II
(b) II and III
(c) I and III
(d) I only
Answer: (a) I and II
Explanation:
BRICS is a forum for cooperation among major emerging economies. Originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, it has expanded to include other countries such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia as full members.
Statement 1 is correct. The 16th BRICS Summit was held in Kazan, Russia, under Russia’s chairmanship, and concluded with the adoption of the Kazan Declaration. The summit reinforced cooperation among member countries on global issues.
The 17th BRICS Summit was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 6–7 July 2025 under Brazil’s chairship. It was held under the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” focusing on enhancing cooperation across political, economic, financial, cultural, and people‑to‑people areas. Leaders adopted the Rio de Janeiro Declaration, reaffirming commitments to multilateralism, global governance reform, and South‑South cooperation.
Statement 2 is correct. Indonesia officially joined BRICS as a full member effective January 2025, expanding the bloc and strengthening its representation of the Global South, particularly Southeast Asia.
Statement 3 is incorrect. The theme of the 16th BRICS Summit was about strengthening multilateralism for just global development and security, not “multiculturalism.”
Looking ahead, the 18th BRICS Summit will be hosted by India in 2026, with India assuming the rotating BRICS chairmanship from January 1, 2026. The summit’s proposed focus, reflected in its motto – “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability” – emphasizes deeper cooperation on development, global governance reforms, innovation, and inclusive growth.
Answer: (a) I and II
