BRICS eyes bigger role

Though China insists that the club has no political agenda,a draft of the Sanya Declaration says: “We are of the view that the Libya conflict should be resolved by politico-diplomatic means. We intend to strengthen cooperation of our actions in the UN Security Council on the Libya issue.”

Brazil,Russia,India and China had abstained from the UN vote last month that allowed international strikes on Libya while South Africa supported the move.

The draft declaration would say that multilateral diplomacy must be adhered to with the UN playing the central role in dealing with global challenges. It would seek a ‘comprehensive UN reform’ to make it more effective,efficient and representative.

Without referring to India’s aim for a permanent UNSC seat,China and Russia are expected to “reiterate the importance they attach to the status of India,Brazil and African nations in international affairs,and understand and support their aspiration to play a greater role in the UN”.

This is viewed as a marked departure from China’s stand — the only permanent member of the Security Council which has not endorsed India’s candidature for a permanent seat.

BRICS plans to translate its political vision into concrete actions with an action plan to be endorsed at Sanya,which will serve as the foundation for future cooperation.