The 13th IBSA Trilateral Ministerial Commission meeting, held on September 26, 2025, in New York, underscored the unwavering commitment of Brazil, India, and South Africa to multilateralism, sustainable development, and a more equitable global governance system. The meeting, convened on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, served as a crucial platform to reaffirm the core principles and objectives of the IBSA initiative – a cornerstone of South-South cooperation.
The session addressed critical global challenges, ranging from geopolitical tensions and the evolving nature of international security to the urgent need for climate action and the sustainable development of the Global South. The ministers highlighted the increasing importance of collective action in shaping a more just and prosperous international order, reflecting the shared values and priorities of the three nations.
A central theme of the discussion was the continued relevance of multilateralism in navigating an increasingly complex world. Recognizing the limitations of traditional institutions, the ministers reaffirmed the importance of strengthening existing frameworks and exploring innovative approaches to address shared challenges. The meeting underscored the need for a reformed United Nations, with enhanced representation for developing countries in its decision-making bodies. Specifically, the ministers reiterated their support for a comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council, advocating for an expanded membership to reflect the realities of the 21st century and to ensure greater inclusivity and accountability. The convening of a review conference to adapt the Security Council to contemporary geopolitical realities, as mandated in Article 109 of the Charter, was deemed paramount.
The ministers engaged in a detailed analysis of key geopolitical developments, including the escalating tensions in Eastern Europe and the evolving security landscape in the Middle East. They emphasized the importance of dialogue and diplomacy as the primary instruments for conflict resolution and the need to uphold the principles of international law and respect for sovereignty. The ministers voiced strong opposition to the use or threat of force, as well as the imposition of unilateral coercive measures.
A significant portion of the discussion centered on the imperative of combating climate change and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. Recognizing the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing countries, the ministers underscored their commitment to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and to mobilizing the necessary financial resources to support climate action. The ministers noted with concern the alarming trends in global emissions and the urgent need for accelerated decarbonization efforts.
Furthermore, the ministers addressed the urgent need for technological innovation and digital transformation. They welcomed the ongoing efforts to build digital public infrastructure (DPI) and to ensure that the benefits of digital technologies are shared equitably across all countries. The ministers emphasized the importance of investing in research and development, promoting skills development, and fostering collaboration between governments, the private sector, and academia.
The ministers also engaged in a detailed review of progress towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Recognizing that the SDGs provide a roadmap for sustainable development, the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to mobilizing the necessary resources and to implementing effective policies to achieve the goals by 2030. They highlighted the importance of addressing poverty, hunger, inequality, and other social challenges.
A key focus of the discussion was the escalating global debt crisis faced by many developing countries. Recognizing the vulnerability of these countries to external shocks, the ministers called for greater debt sustainability and for innovative financing solutions. The ministers also underscored the need for a reformed international financial architecture that is more responsive to the needs of developing countries.
The ministers welcomed the continued progress towards the establishment of the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF), recognizing it as a vital tool for supporting climate action and biodiversity conservation in tropical forest countries. The Ministers also discussed a range of emerging topics including artificial intelligence governance, digital inclusion, and the sustainable use of critical minerals.
The ministers concluded the meeting with a renewed commitment to strengthening the IBSA initiative and to continuing to work together to address the challenges and opportunities facing the Global South. The 13th IBSA Trilateral Ministerial Commission meeting served as a powerful reminder of the enduring value of collaboration and the shared responsibility of the three nations to promote a more just, sustainable, and prosperous world.