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BRICS expresses concern over trade-restrictive measures

Source: Government of South Africa

BRICS expresses concern over trade-restrictive measures

New Delhi, India -BRICS has expressed concern over the rise in unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures, saying such actions distort trade and are inconsistent with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

“The proliferation of trade-restrictive actions that are inconsistent with WTO rules, whether in the form of indiscriminate rising of tariffs and non-tariff measures, or protectionism under the guise of environmental objectives, threatens to further reduce global trade, disrupt global supply chains, and introduce uncertainty into international economic and trade activities, potentially exacerbating existing economic disparities and negatively affecting prospects for global economic development,” the BRICS New Delhi declaration said on Saturday.

The WTO oversees the global rules-based system that governs trade between nations.
India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit, which began on Saturday under the theme: “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, reflecting a people-centred and humanity-first approach.
The grouping adopted the declaration on the first day of the Summit, which will conclude on Sunday in New Delhi, noting that the multilateral trading system has long been at a crossroads.

“We voice serious concerns about the rise of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures which distort trade and are inconsistent with WTO rules. 

“We will work together to enhance the WTO’s responsiveness to trade disruptions and the needs and priorities of emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs), as well as advance discussions on outstanding issues, and support balanced, inclusive and concrete outcomes that strengthen the multilateral trading system and enable it to better address evolving global challenges,” BRICS said.

The grouping reaffirmed its unwavering support for reforming the World Trade Organization and strengthening a non-discriminatory, open, equitable, transparent, fair, inclusive, predictable and rules-based multilateral trading system, with the WTO at its core.

It also upheld foundational principles such as Most-Favoured-Nation Treatment and Special and Differential Treatment for developing members, particularly least-developed countries (LDCs).

“We remain committed to active engagement in multilateral negotiations in Geneva, especially in the debates regarding the reform of the WTO. We will advance efforts and enhance coordination under the BRICS Informal Consultative Framework on the challenges undermining the effectiveness and credibility of the WTO and solutions to these challenges,” BRICS said.

BRICS has expanded from its original membership of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia as full members.
The 2025 partner-country framework includes Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

According to India’s BRICS Presidency, the 11 member countries account for about 49.5% of the world’s population, 40% of global gross domestic product and 26% of global trade.

The grouping provides a platform for consultation and cooperation on global and regional matters, including political, economic, financial and people-to-people cooperation. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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President calls on BRICS to strengthen multilateral order

Source: Government of South Africa

President calls on BRICS to strengthen multilateral order

New Delhi, India – As multilateral institutions and rules face growing threats, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on BRICS countries to strengthen multilateralism through reform and action.

“Over many decades, multilateralism has shown itself to be effective in organising global relations, advancing human rights and promoting development. Yet, the relevance of the United Nations (UN) and the durability of multilateralism are now threatened by overt violations of the UN Charter and the resort to war to settle differences between Member States,” Ramaphosa said on Saturday.

The President was speaking during the closed session on Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India.

“It is up to BRICS to defend and strengthen that multilateral order. South Africa advocates a predictable global system based on international law, with the UN Charter at its centre,” he said.

The President said the challenges facing the world require a more inclusive and effective multilateral system, with BRICS having an important role to play.

He outlined several ways in which BRICS can contribute to strengthening the multilateral order.
“First, BRICS must remain a united voice for reform. It must advocate for a UN system that reflects current realities and in which all regions are effectively represented. Second, BRICS should demonstrate that multilateral cooperation delivers practical results.”

Through the New Development Bank and other areas of cooperation, the President said BRICS can help advance infrastructure development, sustainable growth, food security, health, industrialisation and climate resilience.

“Third, BRICS should help shape approaches to global governance that are fairer, more accountable and development-oriented.

“Fourth, BRICS is a bridge across geopolitical divides. In a fragmented world, dialogue matters more than confrontation. We should ensure that countries with developing economies have a meaningful voice in global decision-making and that power remains constrained by law,” he said.

Upholding international law
The President stressed that the international community must uphold international law and ensure that no country acts with impunity.

“And we must ensure that the voices of Africa and the Global South are fully reflected in shaping the future international order. South Africa advocates a predictable global system based on international law, with the UN Charter at its centre.

“An order founded on the sovereign equality of states, territorial integrity and political independence benefits all nations, large and small,” the President said.

He said the international order prohibits intervention in the internal affairs of other states and the use of force not consistent with Article 51 of the UN Charter or authorised by the Security Council.
It also obliges states to settle disputes peacefully and to respect human rights and self-determination.

Accountability
To give strength to international law, there must be accountability for atrocities, including those involving Palestinians, Sudan and Iran.

“We must exert pressure and expose violations whenever, and by whomever, they are committed. International law cannot be applied selectively: the same principles must apply to all states and the same protections must apply to all peoples.

“It is for this reason that South Africa and other Member States have turned to bodies like the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court to seek justice for the people of Palestine. We cannot allow the United Nations to disappear into irrelevance,” he said.

Africa’s representation on UN Security Council
At the same time, President Ramaphosa said the UN and other global institutions don’t adequately reflect today’s realities and are ill-equipped to address the challenges of the future.

“Africa accounts for 54 Member States of the United Nations and nearly one-fifth of humanity yet remains without permanent representation on the Security Council. This is neither just nor sustainable.

“South Africa reiterates its call for comprehensive Security Council reform that makes the Council more representative, accountable, transparent and effective.

“South Africa supports strengthening the wider UN system, including through the UN80 Initiative and a renewed United Nations focused on peace and security, human rights and humanitarian affairs, and socio-economic development,” he said.

President Ramaphosa arrived in India to attend the 18th BRICS Summit on Friday, with the Presidency saying South Africa will use the Summit to advance its diplomatic and economic priorities.

The President also addressed the BRICS Business Forum on Friday, where he said the ambition of governments and business communities must extend beyond increasing intra-BRICS trade to deepening productive relationships between economies.

Earlier on Saturday, President Ramaphosa addressed the India-South Africa Business Leadership Roundtable.-SAnews.gov.za

 

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Liberia: President Boakai Reaffirms National Commitment to Return 250,000 Children to the Classroom

Source: APO – Report:

His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., President of the Republic of Liberia, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that out-of-school children are identified, enrolled, supported, retained, and empowered to thrive through the Back to My Classroom (BTMC) Campaign.

Launched in 2024, BTMC seeks to return 250,000 out-of-school children to education by 2029, beginning with 80,000 children across seven priority counties in 2026.

Speaking at the BTMC National Steering Committee Presidential Midterm Review, President Boakai emphasized that bringing children back to school is a shared national responsibility requiring sustained leadership from Government, county authorities, communities, families, schools, civil society, development partners, and other stakeholders. He also officially endorsed the rollout of the strengthened BTMC model to six additional priority counties, following the establishment of the first county structure in Gbarpolu.

Minister of Education Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah reaffirmed Government’s determination to translate the President’s vision into measurable action, stressing that successful reintegration goes beyond enrollment. Poverty, distance, disability, lack of birth documentation, inadequate facilities, and other barriers require a coordinated, child-centered response.

The meeting brought together representatives of Education, Health, Gender, Children and Social Protection, Local Government, Finance and Development Planning, LISGIS, UNICEF, development partners, county authorities and civil society, reflecting BTMC’s integrated model of bringing different services and responsibilities together around the same child.

Since its launch, the Campaign has strengthened national coordination, incorporated lessons from the Grand Bassa pilot, established the first County Steering Committee and Secretariat in Gbarpolu, and advanced systems for coordinated referrals, child-level tracking, retention and accountability.

250,000 children. 250,000 dreams. One national commitment.

Every child belongs in the classroom. Together, Liberia will bring them home.

– on behalf of Ministry of Education: Republic of Liberia.

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Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Receives Ambassador Kalilou Traoré of Côte d’Ivoire on First Official Visit to Commission President General Birame Diop, Highlighting Regional Cooperation, Security and Integration

Source: APO – Report:

The President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. General Birame Diop, received H.E. Kalilou Traoré, Ambassador of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire to Nigeria and Permanent Representative of Côte d’Ivoire to ECOWAS, on a courtesy visit following his assumption of office as President of the Commission. The visit, the first paid by a Member State Ambassador to President Diop since he assumed office on 31 August 2026, provided an opportunity for both leaders to reaffirm their commitment to the ideals of regional integration and to exchange views on matters of mutual interest concerning the ECOWAS Community.

The discussions underscored the importance of sustained dialogue, close cooperation and regular consultations between the ECOWAS Commission and Member States in advancing peace, stability, regional integration and sustainable development across West Africa. The meeting was attended by the Chief of Staff to the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr. Sylvain SAMBOU, the Director of External Relations, Mr. Jérôme BOA, the Director of Communication, Mr. Joël AHOFODJI, and members of Ambassador TRAORÉ’s delegation, reflecting the shared commitment of both institutions to strengthening collaboration and engagement in support of the Community’s objectives.

The President and Ambassador Traoré reviewed developments relating to regional peace and security, including ongoing engagement between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), the evolving political situation in Guinea-Bissau and the persistent threat of terrorism across the Sahel region. President Diop stressed the need for continued dialogue, cooperation and coordinated action to preserve stability and safeguard the gains of regional integration.

Discussions also touched on the operationalisation of the ECOWAS Standby Force and broader regional security initiatives, as well as ongoing efforts to strengthen free movement of persons and goods and to advance regional connectivity and infrastructure development.

President Diop commended Côte d’Ivoire’s continued support for the Community’s integration agenda, while Ambassador Traoré, for his part, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to regional integration and to strengthening cooperation with the Commission.

The visit forms part of the Commission’s ongoing consultations with Member States aimed at advancing peace, stability, economic integration and sustainable development across West Africa.

– on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Qatar Strongly Condemns Iranian Attacks on Several Arab Countries, Reaffirms Palestinian Cause as Priority

Source: Government of Qatar

Vienna | September 12, 2026

The State of Qatar has condemned, in the strongest terms, the Houthi group’s targeting of civilian and economic facilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as the renewed attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran on the territories of several Arab states. Qatar further affirmed its full solidarity with these nations and its categorical rejection of any schemes aimed at the forced displacement of the Palestinian people.

This statement was delivered by HE Qatar’s Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations and International Organizations in Vienna, Jassim Yacoub Al Hammadi before the session of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna. The statement was made under the “Any Other Business” agenda item regarding Iranian aggression against Arab states and the situation in occupied Palestine.

His Excellency expressed Qatar’s strong condemnation of the Houthi group’s targeting of civilian and economic facilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as its continued targeting of commercial vessels in the Red Sea, which threatens the security, safety, and freedom of international maritime navigation.
  He affirmed Qatar’s full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its support for all legitimate measures taken by the Kingdom to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity in the face of such blatant aggression.

His Excellency also condemned the recent attacks by the Islamic Republic of Iran on the territories of Arab states-specifically the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates-describing them as a flagrant violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the targeted states, and a blatant breach of international law, the UN Charter, and the principles of good-neighborly relations. 
In this context, His Excellency recalled Security Council Resolution 2817, adopted in March 2026, which condemned in the strongest terms Iranian attacks on Arab states, deeming them a violation of international law and a grave threat to international peace and security. The resolution called upon Iran to immediately refrain from any acts or threats violating international law and to respect freedom of international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz-a principle firmly established in international law. 

His Excellency reaffirmed the State of Qatar’s steadfast position advocating a return to dialogue and negotiations and a halt to any military escalation in the Arabian Gulf region. He warned that continued Iranian aggression represents a dangerous escalation that could undermine political and diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving regional security and stability, while further deepening the crisis of trust. 

His Excellency emphasized that the Islamic Republic of Iran bears full legal responsibility for these attacks and their resulting consequences. He stressed that the repercussions of the current crisis are not limited to the countries of the region but extend to global energy, trade, maritime navigation, and supply chains, as well as to international peace and security as a whole, noting that addressing this crisis is a shared regional and international responsibility. 

Regarding developments in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Ambassador Al Hammadi emphasized that ongoing events in the Arabian Gulf region must not overshadow the priority of the Palestinian cause, which he described as “a bleeding wound in the conscience of humanity.” He explained that Israel’s refusal to implement international resolutions affirming the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination-including the establishment of their independent state-stems from its conviction that it enjoys impunity. He noted that if the international community were to alter this perception through practical measures, it would put an end to these appalling actions; the Palestinian people would realize their right to self-determination, the goal of establishing a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East would be achieved, and the region would enjoy security, stability, and prosperity for all.

He pointed to the persistence of Israeli policies involving land annexation, forced displacement, and escalating violations of Palestinian rights in the occupied territories. He highlighted recent examples of this, citing statements by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Defense Minister Israel Katz regarding the forced displacement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip. 
He emphasized that such statements constitute a flagrant violation of international law, international humanitarian law, and UN Security Council resolutions-particularly Resolution 2334, which condemned all Israeli measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character, and status of the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967-and stressed the necessity of halting all settlement activities. 

His Excellency affirmed the State of Qatar’s categorical rejection and condemnation of any attempts or schemes aimed at the forced displacement of the Palestinian people-who remain steadfast in their attachment to their land and homeland. He noted that such attempts, in addition to violating international law and Security Council resolutions, pose a direct threat to international efforts to achieve peace-foremost among them the comprehensive US peace plan to end the conflict in Gaza, which is backed by Security Council Resolution 2803.

His Excellency the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar in Vienna emphasized that the Gaza Strip is an integral part of the occupied Palestinian territory. He further asserted that the only path to achieving a just and lasting peace lies in implementing the two-state solution and establishing an independent Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967, lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with relevant international legitimacy resolutions. 

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PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs Discusses Bilateral Relations, Regional Developments in Call with Saudi FM

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, September 11, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani has discussed bilateral relations and the latest regional developments during a telephone call with HH Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah.

The conversation explored measures to further cement bilateral cooperation between the two nations and discussed diplomatic initiatives and joint coordination to reduce regional tensions. 
HE Sheikh Mohammed reiterated Doha’s backing for diplomatic efforts aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation and facilitating a comprehensive agreement leading to lasting peace in the region.

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PM and Minister of Foreign Affairs Discusses Bilateral Ties, Region in Call with Kuwait FM

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, September 11, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani has discussed bilateral cooperation and regional developments in a telephone call with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah.

The conversation focused on ways to strengthen cooperation, as well as the diplomatic efforts and joint coordination aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting regional stability.

HE Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed the State of Qatar’s support for diplomatic efforts and initiatives seeking a solution that would guarantee freedom of maritime navigation and pave the way for a comprehensive agreement leading to lasting peace in the region. (QNA)

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Qatar Affirms that the Right to Development is a Fundamental Human Right

Source: Government of Qatar

Geneva – 11 September 2026

The State of Qatar affirms that the right to development is a fundamental human right, recognition of which was crowned by the adoption of the Declaration on the Right to Development in 1986. It noted that, forty years after the adoption of the Declaration, the principles and standards contained therein continue to constitute a cornerstone for addressing many of the challenges facing the world today.

This was stated in the statement delivered by the State of Qatar by Mr. Abdulrahman Mohammed Fakhroo, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office at Geneva, today, during his participation in the panel discussion on the right to development, held to mark the fortieth anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration on the Right to Development, under agenda item 3, within the framework of the sixty-third session of the Human Rights Council, being held in Geneva.

He affirmed that, in the context of implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, attention to this right constitutes an international and national priority that should take into account the importance of implementing the development agenda in accordance with the provisions of the Declaration and the obligations of States under international human rights instruments.

He explained that, in this regard, the State of Qatar adopted an ambitious national vision for comprehensive development, namely the “Qatar National Vision 2030”, and worked to implement it through national development strategies, thereby achieving many important national accomplishments and making steady progress towards the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, while maintaining its leading position in numerous international and regional development-related indicators.

He noted that, at the international level, the State of Qatar has adopted a foreign policy based on promoting and advancing international cooperation and solidarity, with a view to contributing to efforts to achieve development in various fields. In this regard, he highlighted the State of Qatar’s hosting of the Fifth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries in March 2023, and the Second World Summit for Social Development in November 2025.

The Deputy Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office at Geneva pointed out that the State of Qatar’s efforts continue through interactive solidarity, which consists of providing support to countries affected by disasters, conflicts and climate change, as well as through preventive solidarity, which consists of investing in the provision of quality education and implementing a number of development programmes and initiatives with various international partners.

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 Well wishes over Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

Source: Government of South Africa

 Well wishes over Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished the Jewish community in South Africa and around the world a peaceful, safe, and joyous Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

“As the Jewish community enters the period of the high holy days, we are reminded of the abiding value in faith and family,” President Ramaphosa.

In his statement on Friday, the President said: “In Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashanah is a time for renewal and reflection and carries a profound and timeless message about our power to bring about change – not only in our own lives, but in the lives of those around us.”

The President paid tribute to the South African Jewish community as an important part of South Africa’s national fabric.

“On behalf of all South Africans, we wish those who are observing Rosh Hashanah a sweet year full of hope and happiness, and a meaningful Yom Kippur fast,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Training for Peace: Corporal Kaitell builds capacity for Somali Police at African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Sector 2

Source: APO

Training and mentorship are at the heart of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). In Kismayo’s Sector 2, that work falls in part to Corporal George Fitzpatrick Kaitell. An armourer by trade, he now heads training for the Sierra Leone Formed Police Unit.

With 21 years of experience in the Sierra Leone Police Force, Cpl Kaitell has dedicated his career to public service, professional policing and capacity building. Since joining the police in 2005, he remains dedicated to serving not only his country, but the broader African community.

“I was inspired by friends and also to dedicate myself to my country and to the world at large,” he said.

For Cpl Kaitell, cooperation helped strengthen the relationship between the AUSSOM personnel and their Somali counterparts.

Key areas of instruction include public order management and weapons handling, both critical components of modern policing and civilian protection. These training courses are designed to improve technical skills and enhance professionalism in the Protection of Civilians.

For Cpl Kaitell, the mission goes beyond security operations. He believes the training effort represents a broader African commitment to peace, cooperation and rebuilding societies affected by conflict.

“We are all Africans, and we want Africa to be peaceful. We want Somalia to move on from the past and lead a new path with peace and a happy life.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

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