Kazem Jalali made the remarks on Saturday at the “BRICS Development Perspective: Transformations and New Horizons” meeting held on the sidelines of the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.
“Geopolitical tensions, disruptions in supply chains, fluctuations in global markets, and increased demand in emerging economies show that energy security has become one of the main pillars of global stability, and development more than ever before,” Jalali said, as he elaborated on the Islamic Republic’s views on the position of BRICS in the global energy system.
The Iranian diplomat noted that energy security does not simply mean access to energy resources, but is rather a comprehensive concept that also includes supply security, demand security, investment security, technology security, infrastructure security, and financial security.
He highlighted the extensive capacities of the BRICS member countries to assume common responsibilities.
“These countries have a responsibility to play a role in shaping a fairer, more stable and more inclusive system for global energy security,” Jalali said.
He emphasized that energy should be a factor in development, prosperity and production, and not a tool for exerting political pressure.
Jalali also called for the development of the North-South international corridor, expansion of transport and logistics infrastructure, development of port cooperation and promotion of energy network connectivity among the BRICS member countries.
“These measures can help increase the security and sustainability of energy trade at the regional and global levels,” he noted.
Jalali also underscored that the Islamic Republic of Iran has not attacked any country, and instead has always called for peace, stability and security across the globe.
As a BRICS member and one of the major energy producers, Iran will play its constructive and effective role in achieving justice and global energy security, the Iranian ambassador concluded.
The meeting was hosted by Deputy Russian Prime Minister Alexei Ovechuk, and discussed issues such as energy security, food security, financial exchange systems and the expansion of BRICS cooperation.
Other speakers at the meeting included senior Russian, Brazilian, Indian and Cuban diplomats and officials, as well as prominent American economist Jeffrey Sachs.
Press TV