The Joint Declaration illustrates that BRICS member states have recognised their achievements in the field of Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation (RSSC) in using space technology for global challenges and socio-economic development. Member states have emphasised the need for greater international cooperation and efforts to reduce disparities in space capabilities amongst them. They have also highlighted the importance of space-debris mitigation and long-term sustainability. Space agencies of new member states have been requested to join the RSSC agreement.

On outer-space security, BRICS reaffirms that space systems and technologies should be used for peaceful purposes, and that they need to support efforts towards the long-term sustainability of outer-space activities. It is also important to prevent any possible arms race in outer space and any efforts to weaponise space. BRICS states oppose threats or the use of force against space objects. They also support negotiations on a legally binding multilateral instrument on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS), a UN framework established in 1981.

There is overall agreement on the importance of Transparency and Confidence-Building Measures (TCBMs), norms, rules, and principles in the space domain. The group also supports discussions through a UN Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on PAROS and favours building on existing efforts towards a legally binding instrument. In this context, it has recognised the 2014 updated draft Treaty on the Prevention of the Placement of Weapons in Outer Space, the Threat or Use of Force against Outer Space Objects (PPWT), jointly submitted by China and Russia to the Conference on Disarmament, as an important contribution to these efforts.[1]

Broadly, it could be argued that the assurances made at the New Delhi BRICS Summit are largely routine, reflecting........

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