Lucknow, Sep 13 — Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Sunday said stronger cooperation among BRICS countries could offer hope amid growing global conflicts and economic challenges, while welcoming discussions around a BRICS currency and the grouping’s positions on Palestine and terrorism.
Addressing a press conference in Lucknow, Mayawati said the meeting had been called to present the BSP’s response to the BRICS Summit being held in New Delhi, raise the issue of Panchayati Department employees protesting in Lucknow and discuss measures to strengthen the party’s organisation at the grassroots level across the country, particularly to expand its support base among the Bahujan community.
“These are the three key issues for which the meeting has been called,” she said.
Speaking about the BRICS Summit, Mayawati said the wars in Ukraine and Iran had added to the challenges facing countries, including tariff-related and economic difficulties.
She said closer ties among BRICS members could provide a positive direction amid the uncertain global situation. “A stronger bond among BRICS nations will also be a hope-filled step,” Mayawati said, adding that the development of a BRICS currency would also be an important step in strengthening cooperation among member countries.
Mayawati also highlighted the position taken on the Palestine issue, saying there was united support for a two-state solution and an independent Palestine.
“In addition, on the Palestine issue, there was united support for a two-state solution and an independent Palestine based on the 1967 borders,” she said.
The BSP chief further said the BRICS commitment to combating terrorism, particularly in the context of the Pahalgam terror attack, had received appropriate support for India’s position.
On India’s ties with neighbouring China, Mayawati said the approach of ensuring that differences did not turn into disputes would have to be evaluated based on the results it produces.
“Regarding the neighbouring country China, how soon good results will emerge from the approach of not letting differences turn into disputes and considering each other as partners in development, will be a matter of proper evaluation in the coming time,” she said.
Mayawati also stressed the need for an early resolution of the border issue between the two countries.
“It will be equally appropriate if the border issue between both countries is also resolved among themselves as early as possible,” she said.
Her remarks came as BRICS leaders gathered in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, with discussions focusing on global challenges, economic cooperation, international conflicts, terrorism and other issues concerning member countries.