WANA (Jul 07) – Speaking at the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi laid out Iran’s position on key global issues, including the strengthening of multilateralism, economic and financial cooperation, and the ethical governance of artificial intelligence.

 

Araghchi emphasized the need for a new, inclusive, and multipolar global order, describing the current unipolar system as ineffective in delivering justice, stability, and prosperity to most nations. He stated that BRICS, as a leading coalition of the Global South, is well-positioned to drive structural reforms in global governance, especially within the United Nations.

 

UN Reform and South-South Cooperation

Araghchi called for comprehensive structural reforms in the United Nations to reflect today’s geopolitical realities. He criticised the UN Security Council for failing to uphold peace, attributing this inaction to the selective and destructive behaviour of certain member states. He advocated for:

  • A stronger, reformed United Nations system;

  • The rejection of unilateral sanctions and coercive measures, which Iran has faced for years;

  • The creation of a legal mechanism within BRICS to monitor and counter such actions in international forums;

  • Enhanced South-South cooperation and empowerment of regional organizations;

  • Expanded roles for the BRICS New Development Bank in financing infrastructure, energy, and technology projects;

  • Deeper energy cooperation through joint investment and technology transfer, noting Iran’s strategic role as a major energy producer and transit hub.

Artificial Intelligence and Technological Equity

Araghchi highlighted AI as both an opportunity and a responsibility. He warned that without inclusive governance, AI could exacerbate global inequalities. To address this, he proposed the establishment of a BRICS Center for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies to coordinate joint research, pool resources, and support innovation ecosystems across the Global South.

He stressed the need for unity among developing nations to reject politically motivated narratives that aim to restrict their access to science and technology.

Condemnation of U.S. and Israeli Military Actions

In a particularly emotional section of his speech, Araghchi condemned the recent military attacks by Israel and the United States against Iran. “As I speak to you today, the Iranian people are mourning the loss of their loved ones—including women and children—killed in brutal assaults carried out by the Israeli regime with the support and active involvement of the United States,” he said.

He asserted that Iran’s peaceful pursuit of nuclear technology had been the sole pretext for these aggressions. Over the past two decades, he said, Iran has faced maximum pressure campaigns, economic sanctions, assassinations, and sabotage against its civilian nuclear program.

Araghchi accused the aggressors of violating the UN Charter and international law by resorting to illegal military force to halt Iran’s scientific progress.

Closing Remarks and Appreciation

Concluding his speech, Araghchi thanked BRICS member states for condemning the military aggression against Iran in Paragraph 21 of the BRICS Leaders’ Declaration. “We, as developing nations, must stand united in defending our fundamental rights to science and development,” he said.