Iran's proposal at the BRICS high-ranking security officials summit in St. Petersburg, Russia, on September 11 not only addresses the misuse of advanced technology but also takes a brave stand against the poorly managed conflicts of terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking, and people trafficking.

The BRICS demonstrates an expansion beyond economic matters and a broader vision for multilateral cooperation by holding a conference on security for the first time. The meeting in St. Petersburg strived to address the shared security concern in the face of rising security threats and risks emanating from the lopsided use of the latest technologies.

While addressing the conference, Ali Akbar Ahmadian, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, suggested the formation of a "BRICS Security Commission" to investigate the major threats related to the misuse of alternate intelligence (AI) technology, maritime security, cyber threats, illegal biological threats, and satellite warfare to secure the interests of the BRICS community.

Iran views the illegal use of modern technology as a potential threat to nations that lean toward multipolarity and deny 'exceptionalism and double standards' stemming from the so-called rule-based global system. Iran believes that a joint approach under the proposed commission will shape collaborative and collective efforts to effectively tackle international peace and security threats.

Threats arise from misuse of high-tech technologies

The Iranian proposals amid a wide range of manipulation of high-tech tools, such as surveillance and dual-use technologies, by the US and its European allies have raised concerns about human rights and security-related issues. In certain cases, surveillance operations have employed spyware, such as Pegasus, to indulge in questionable activities.

In 2010, an Israeli cyber-intelligence firm created Pegasus spyware to intercept mobile phone calls and extract their data. Using spyware to monitor politicians, government leaders, human rights activists, dissidents, and journalists has been a highly contentious issue.

This not only infringes upon individual privacy and freedoms but also jeopardizes national security and military operations of non-US nations. In light of this scenario, several working groups and frameworks have underscored the importance of tackling unwarranted surveillance and improving governance to keep these risks at bay.

In the same vein, the US is pulling out all the stops to counter the sway of China and Russia, aiming to keep its edge sharp in military artificial intelligence (AI) and other tech arenas. It also throws its weight behind its leading technology firms around the world to safeguard their interests.

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When it comes to key technologies, it shuts the door on other countries, keeping a watchful eye on critical investments in the tech sector. To avoid security pitfalls and lock down the vital supply chains, the US puts the brakes on exports and even throws up roadblocks with embargoes on sensitive technologies.

Iran's proposals at the conference also addressed the issue of illegal biological threats. The threat is defined as the misuse of biological agents for harmful purposes, including the development and deployment of biological weapons. These threats stem from illicit access to biological materials, such as pathogens, and may include the potential for bioterrorism or other forms of biological warfare. A collaborative approach under the BRICS umbrella can enhance detection capabilities, both domestically and globally, which is crucial for mitigating these threats.

Putin eulogizes Iran

Russia and Iran are currently developing a strategic cooperation agreement, a crucial foundational document that could shape the future course of Russian-Iranian relations for the next few years and possibly decades.

The agreement to establish comprehensive strategic cooperation between Russia and Iran is nearing completion, according to Russian Ambassador to Iran Alexey Dedov, who told Sputnik in February that it was a novel interstate agreement that would encourage a comprehensive strategic collaboration between the two nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin commended the "strategic" partnership between Russia and Iran, accentuating the gradual advancement of their friendly relations in recent times. At the Konstantinovsky Palace in St. Petersburg, Putin delivered these remarks on September 12 during a reception for Ali Akbar Ahmadian. The encounter, held during the 14th summit of BRICS high-ranking security officials, depicts a close and friendly partnership between Moscow and Tehran.

Putin revealed that Russia eagerly awaits the arrival of Iranian President Pezeshkian in Russia, where they plan to sign a bilateral comprehensive cooperation agreement. Russia's President also highlighted the International North-South Transport Corridor, underscoring Moscow's unwavering support for Iran's involvement in the transportation route and the project's high priority for both countries.

In his inaugural speech at the conference, Putin stated that the security meeting marked a critical phase in the run for the BRICS summit, set to take place in Kazan, Russia, on October 22–24. He stated that they intend to engage in a comprehensive discussion regarding the future expansion of the comprehensive partnership among BRICS member countries and finalize a package of agreements that encompass a variety of sectors and areas of cooperation.

Putin disclosed that the forthcoming BRICS summit meeting will authorize the seamless assimilation of new member countries into the BRICS ambit, stating that, at present, more than 34 countries have expressed their interest in joining the association and participating in its activities. "Consequently, we have initiated substantive discussions with all BRICS participants regarding the framework for a new category of partner states, set for approval in Kazan,” he said.  

China’s assessment of shared security concerns

Wang Yi, the top Chinese diplomat and member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, proposed four measures for the BRICS nations to collaboratively tackle security challenges. The BRICS countries, he proposed, should assume the forefront in implementing peaceful coexistence and upholding principles of independence and autonomy. Their guiding principle should be authentic multilateralism, and they should desist from exceptionalism and double standards.

He urged the BRICS countries to actively advocate for the political settlement of contentious matters and demonstrate mutual respect for valid concerns.

“They should assume the forefront in advocating for justice and ensuring fair management of matters on the global platform to promote an equitable and well-organized multipolar world,” he stated. He suggested a universally advantageous and inclusive economic globalization. Wang said that China and Russia, as well as other BRICS members, were striving to strengthen relationships with the BRICS nations in order to further enhance their international influence and address the challenges posed by Western countries. The Global South, he added, was increasingly important in international affairs, particularly in security and development.