October 29, 2024
By Nasser Kandil
• As we closely follow the historic war unfolding in our region, we must not overlook pivotal global events, particularly the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, and its outcomes and statements from the summit’s leaders.
• The tone of the summit’s statement suggests the emergence of a new global centre, distinct from but parallel to NATO. The statement addressed nearly every major international issue, including economic, developmental, environmental, security, strategic, military, and political matters, reflecting BRICS members’ unified stance on these fronts.
• Unlike the former Warsaw Pact, which was a direct military counter to NATO, BRICS positions itself between the Warsaw Pact and the Non-Aligned Movement. The unifying principle for BRICS members is a strong commitment to national independence – not only from the U.S. and the West but from any form of dependency. This sense of independence respects the distinct national identities of member states and establishes it as a foundational value for the bloc.
• In each section of the statement, BRICS affirms that the world’s crises stem from the sidelining of international law and the obstruction of the United Nations’ role. The root of these issues, BRICS asserts, lies in the pursuit of global dominance and the imposition of military and financial pressure by certain international actors. The solutions BRICS champions involve upholding international law as a standard, revitalising the role of UN institutions, and advocating for a more balanced world order that respects the sovereignty, independence, and rights of nations. Establishing a balanced global power dynamic, with BRICS as a central pillar, is key to achieving these goals.
• Through this perspective, BRICS addresses the wars waged by the occupying entity in the region by affirming support for Palestinian rights, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, and reaffirming international resolutions supporting Palestinian entitlements.
• While BRICS may not yet have the power to alter the current trajectory, especially in contrast to U.S. support for the occupying entity, the rise of BRICS poses a tangible challenge to American dominance and hegemonic policies. This shifting global scene is one Washington cannot ignore – and nor should the peoples and active forces in our region.
