In his first multilateral engagement with world leaders, Modi addressed the sixth summit of BRICS nations in which he made it clear that terrorism in any form was against humanity and there should be zero-tolerance against it.
He said the menace has assumed war-like proportions and called for early adoption by the UN of the draft comprehensive convention on international terrorism.
"We must also put collective pressure on states to deny sanctuaries and support to terrorists," he said in his first major speech at an international forum in which he also referred to international hot spots like Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan.
"Terrorism is a threat that has assumed war-like proportions. It is in fact a proxy war aimed at innocent civilians. Due to different yardsticks the international community has not been able to combat terror effectively," he told the meeting of five-nation grouping attended by host President Dilma Rousseff, Presidents Xi Jinping of China, Vladimir Putin of Russia and Jacob Zuma of South Africa.
"I firmly believe that terrorism, in any shape or form, is against humanity. There should be zero tolerance towards terrorism. Humanity must unite, and isolate terrorist forces, especially states that flout basic norms. Selective targeting of terrorism will not work," he said.
"BRICS must translate our political resolve into a concrete and coordinated plan of action. I call for an early adoption by the UN, of the draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. We are meeting at a time when the world is facing a high level of turmoil and uncertainty. Global economic weakness also persists," Modi said.
He said restoring a climate of peace and stability is therefore an urgent need for global progress and prosperity. "I come from a land where the idea of the 'whole world being one family' is rooted in our ethos - Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," he said.
Modi said the world must unite as one to decisively confront global challenges. Corrective action must begin with the reform of institutions of global governance. This has been on the BRICS agenda since its inception.
Read more Latest News from World News
