Published 12:07 IST, June 28th 2019
BRICS joint-statement reflects PM Modi's stance on terrorism, issues veiled but stern takedown of Pakistan over terror funding
Echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unbending stance on counter-terrorism, the BRICS leaders on Friday reiterated that it is the responsibility of all countries to prevent financing of terror webs and activities from within their territories.
Echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unbending stance on counter-terrorism, the BRICS leaders on Friday reiterated that states must take the responsibility to prevent financing terror webs and activities from within their territories.
In what can be deduced as a veiled attack on Pakistan, who dangle on the 'grey list' of the FATF for failing to act upon terror outfits, in a joint statement of the informal BRICS meeting on the sideline of G20 Summit at Japan's Osaka leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa restated their commitment to "fight the exploitation" of the internet for terrorism.
"We strongly condemn terrorist attacks, including against BRICS countries, in all forms and manifestations, wherever and by whom so ever committed. We reiterate that it is the responsibility of all states to prevent financing of terrorist networks and of terrorist actions from their territories. We reiterate our commitment to fight the exploitation of the internet for terrorist purposes," reads the statement.
Addressing the five-member association, Prime Minister Modi in the presence of Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro, Russia President Vladimir Putin, China President Xi Jinping and South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa asserted that terrorism is the 'biggest threat' to humanity, further urging BRICS countries to contribute in ending all mediums of support to terrorism and racism.
Concurring India's stand on terror, BRICS leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to supporting international cooperation in combating illicit financial flows.
"We acknowledge that corruption, including illicit money and financial flows, and ill-gotten wealth stashed in foreign jurisdictions, is a global challenge which may impact negatively on economic growth and sustainable development. We will strive to coordinate our approach and encourage a stronger global commitment in this regard," further read the statement.
"We reaffirm our commitment to support international cooperation in combating illicit financial flows, including cooperation within the Financial Actions Task Force (FATF), the World Customs Organisation and other relevant multilateral mechanisms," it added.
Last week, the FATF told Pakistan to "swiftly" complete its action plan to curb terror financing by October or face consequences. The country has already missed two prior deadlines -- in January and May 2019 -- to complete their action plan.
(With ANI inputs)
Updated 12:22 IST, June 28th 2019