14 September 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said that the countries selected for the BRICS outreach programme were chosen with the objective of ensuring broader representation of the Global South.
The ministry said the outreach mechanism is intended to strengthen engagement with developing countries and provide a wider platform for discussing shared economic, developmental and geopolitical concerns.
Focus on Global South Representation
According to the MEA, the selection of outreach countries was guided by the need to ensure that different regions and perspectives of the Global South are represented.
The approach reflects BRICS’ broader effort to expand its engagement beyond its core membership and build stronger partnerships with developing economies.
BRICS Outreach Mechanism
BRICS outreach meetings provide an opportunity for member countries to interact with partner and invited nations on issues of common interest.
These discussions can cover areas including economic cooperation, development, food and energy security, technology, climate change and reforms of global institutions.
India’s Emphasis on Developing Countries
India has consistently highlighted the importance of giving developing countries a greater voice in global decision-making.
New Delhi has also promoted the idea that international institutions should better reflect the interests of countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America and other parts of the developing world.
Why the Global South Matters
The Global South includes a diverse group of developing and emerging economies facing common challenges such as development financing, climate-related pressures, food security and access to technology.
BRICS’ outreach efforts are therefore seen as a way to deepen cooperation among countries beyond traditional geopolitical groupings.
A Broader BRICS Engagement
The expansion of BRICS and its outreach initiatives has increased the group’s importance in international affairs.
By engaging countries outside the core grouping, BRICS aims to create wider cooperation on economic and political issues while strengthening ties among emerging economies.
India’s Role in BRICS
India has played an active role in shaping BRICS discussions, particularly on issues related to the Global South.
New Delhi has argued that developing countries should have a stronger role in determining global economic priorities and reforming institutions such as the United Nations and international financial organisations.
Outreach Beyond Membership
The outreach format also allows BRICS to engage countries that may not be formal members but share interests in areas such as economic development, multilateral cooperation and a more representative global order.
This creates an additional channel for dialogue between BRICS members and developing countries.
Global South Voice in Global Governance
The MEA’s comments underline India’s view that the Global South should not simply be an observer in global affairs.
Instead, developing nations should have greater participation in shaping international rules, institutions and responses to global challenges.