The fourth BRICS summit, which concluded on Thursday in New Delhi, sent positive signals to the outside world that international stability, security and prosperity can be achieved if everyone pulls together.

In the joint declaration issued by leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, the five countries vowed to enhance cooperation among themselves and contribute to world development and prosperity.

Given that the BRICS countries have become an increasingly important force on the world stage and the drivers of the global economy, their pledge to make due contributions to the world development and prosperity should be interpreted as good news for all.

They also voiced their united support for a Syrian peace process promoted by international envoy Kofi Annan and warned of the "disastrous consequences" of allowing the Iran nuclear issue to escalate into conflict.

It is good to see the group showing solidarity on issues of global significance. By speaking with one voice, they can better defend their own interests and those of the developing world at large and promote fairer global governance.

The summit came at a crucial moment, as the global economic recovery is still dragging its feet, entangled by fragile financial systems, high public and private debt, high unemployment and the rising price of oil. Pressing issues, such as climate change, food security and energy security also pose grave challenges.

Speaking at the plenary session of the summit on Thursday, President Hu Jintao elaborated China's position on global governance, sustainable development and cooperation within BRICS. He put forward a multi-point proposal on BRICS cooperation, urging member states to stay committed to common development, practical cooperation and consultation on international issues.

"BRICS cooperation now stands at a new starting point," he said, adding the five emerging economies need to build on their past cooperation and blaze new trails so as to inject new vitality into their mechanism and to usher in a more just, fair and reasonable international political and economic order.

This summit has clearly not been a wasted opportunity and has been successful in advancing cooperation, consultation and coordination among the member countries.

It has made it clear that they have come together for the benefit of their people and the international community as a whole.

(China Daily 03/30/2012 page9)