Excellencies,
Distinguished members of the Business Council
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I believe, economic forces are becoming increasingly important in global relationships.
Domains like Trade, Technology, Tourism, Talent and Tradition have the power to redefine existing paradigms.
I am thus pleased, that we established, the BRICS Business Council, in Durban, last year.
It is important, that our business leaders lead the effort in promoting trade, investment and manufacturing ties, among our countries.
I appreciate the work done by the Council.
Various enabling agreements, and MoUs; have already been signed between BRICS Development Banks, to promote intra-BRICS trade and investment.
I would suggest the Business Council work in close coordination with the Development Banks, and, the Contact Group on Trade and Investment Issues.
The suggestions presented in the Annual Report are important. The Council should work closely with BRICS Sherpas to see how these suggestions can be taken forward.
I am also happy to note that the Council has gone beyond BRICS to make concrete proposals for contributing to the growth, and development of the larger African region.
India remains committed to partnering with African countries in their developmental initiatives.
I once again, express my appreciation for the good work that has been done.


Excellencies,
Distinguished delegates, Dear friends, Namaskar.
Welcome to the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure 2025. This conference is being hosted in Europe for the very first time. I thank my friend, President Macron and the Government of France for their support. I also extend my wishes for the upcoming United Nations Oceans Conference.
Friends,
The theme of this conference is ‘Shaping a Resilient Future for Coastal Regions'. Coastal regions and islands are at great risk due to natural disasters and climate change. In recent times, we saw: Cyclone Remal in India and Bangladesh, Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean, Typhoon Yagi in South-east Asia, Hurricane Helene in the United States, Typhoon Usagi in Philippines and Cyclone Chido in parts of Africa. Such disasters caused damage to lives and property.
Friends,
India also experienced this pain during the super-cyclone of 1999 and the tsunami of 2004. We adapted and rebuilt, factoring in resilience. Cyclone shelters were constructed across vulnerable areas. We also helped build a tsunami warning system for 29 countries.
Friends,
The Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure is working with 25 Small Island Developing States. Resilient homes, hospitals, schools, energy, water security and early warning systems are being built. Given the theme of this conference, I am glad to see friends from the Pacific, Indian Ocean and the Caribbean here. Further, I am happy that the African Union has also joined the CDRI.
Friends,
I would like to draw your attention to some important global priorities.
First: Courses, modules and skill development programmes on disaster resilience need to become part of higher education. This will build a skilled workforce that can tackle future challenges.
Second: Many countries face disasters and rebuild with resilience. A global digital repository of their learnings and best practices would be beneficial.
Third: Disaster resilience requires innovative financing. We must design actionable programmes and ensure developing nations have access to finance.
Fourth: We consider Small Island Developing States as Large Ocean Countries. Due to their vulnerability, they deserve special attention.
Fifth: Strengthening early warning systems and coordination is crucial. This helps timely decisions and effective last-mile communication. I am sure that discussions in this conference will consider these aspects.
Friends,
Let us build infrastructure that stands firm against time and tide. Let us build a strong and resilient future for the world.
Thank You.