Modi's Caution at BRICS: Minerals and Tech as Weapons Threaten Progress
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at the BRICS summit, issued a stark warning on the potential perils of turning technology and critical minerals into tools of geopolitical manoeuvre. His remarks, made in the presence of leaders from Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa, underscored the urgency of addressing these challenges to safeguard global progress and prosperity.
Modi stated, "The weaponisation of technology and critical minerals could hinder our shared progress." His words echoed a sentiment that is gaining traction worldwide, as nations increasingly grapple with the dual-use nature of modern technology and the strategic importance of minerals like lithium and cobalt, essential for everything from smartphones to electric vehicles.
The Call for Inclusivity
Amidst these challenges, Modi emphasised the need for inclusivity in technological adoption. "We must ensure that technology is accessible to all, not wielded by a few," he asserted, highlighting the need for equitable distribution of technological advancements. This approach, he argued, is vital for building resilient economies and fostering a cooperative global community.
The Prime Minister's comments come amid heightened global tensions over supply chain vulnerabilities and the geopolitical tussle for control over critical resources. Nations are becoming increasingly protective of their technological and mineral assets, often at the expense of international cooperation.
Resilient Supply Chains
Modi's address also touched upon the importance of establishing resilient supply chains. "Shared prosperity depends on our ability to maintain robust and reliable supply chains," he noted. In an interconnected world, the disruption of supply chains can have far-reaching consequences, impacting economies and livelihoods worldwide.
As the summit concluded, the leaders of the BRICS nations acknowledged the pressing need to tackle these challenges collectively. Modi's remarks serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between national interests and global cooperation, a balance that is crucial for sustained progress in an increasingly complex world.
