Former World Bank official calls for unity, deepening cooperation among Global South countries

Through stronger coordination mechanisms and deeper cooperation, Global South countries can speak with a unified voice to address crises threatening all nations, said Otaviano Canuto, former vice president and executive director of the World Bank.

During an exclusive interview with China Central Television (CCTV) on July 1, Canuto highlighted the importance of advancing Global South development. The interview came ahead of the 17th BRICS Summit running from Sunday to Monday in Brazil under the theme "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance."

"In the face of mounting global and regional crises, deriving from climate change, food and energy insecurity, health emergencies, debt distress and geopolitical tensions, greater unity and cooperation among emerging markets and developing economies is essential to drive fairer, more effective global governance. To do this, the Global South can focus on some key strategies," Canuto said.

Canuto stressed the importance of unified policy dialogue to amplify the voice of the Global South on pressing global issues.

"Platforms like BRICS, the African Union, CELAC and ASEAN can deepen policy dialogue and align positions on major global issues. The Global South can speak with a stronger unified voice," said the economist.

He also stressed the need for the Global South to foster internal trade and innovation, while pushing for reforms that create a more inclusive global system.

"Enhance trade, investment and technology exchanges among Global South countries, reducing dependency on other countries, on advanced economies. Advocate for reforms in global governance institutions, it needs both unity of purpose and practical cooperation that delivers concrete results for people. By working together, these countries can make the international system more inclusive, equitable and capable of addressing the crisis that threaten all nations, especially the most vulnerable," said Canuto.

BRICS – an acronym derived from its first five members: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – has expanded to include 11 full member states and 10 partner countries.

Today, BRICS countries account for over half of the world's population, nearly 30 percent of global GDP, and more than 50 percent of global economic growth.

Former World Bank official calls for unity, deepening cooperation among Global South countries

The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) is ready to completely withdraw from the governmental scene in the Gaza Strip and engage in a positive and constructive manner with the second phase of the plan to end the war in the enclave, said Hamas political bureau member Basem Naim on Friday. In a statement, Naim said that the ceasefire deal became an international plan after being adopted by the United Nations Security Council. However, it is now facing obstacles.

He accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of reneging on his commitments and escalating the situation, in an attempt to return to war and save his political career. Pointing out that Israeli strikes have caused hundreds of casualties since the announcement of the ceasefire, the Hamas official said the escalation cannot occur without cover or green light from the United States. He said Hamas has committed to all its obligations under the ceasefire agreement, as attested by the mediators and the U.S., adding that it is ready for the second phase of the agreement.

He emphasized the Movement's commitment to the establishment of a fully empowered Palestinian body to administer Gaza, and its complete withdrawal from the governmental scene.

Naim warned that the situation will not be sustainable if the continued escalation of Israeli military operations and the persistence of the catastrophic humanitarian situation remain unaddressed, adding that the circle of fire may expand, which is what Netanyahu aspires to.

Since a ceasefire took effect on Oct 10, 2025, Gaza's death toll has risen to 439 with 1,223 injuries, according to local health authorities on Friday. Rescue teams have recovered 688 bodies during that period. In the broader conflict, at least 71,409 Palestinians have been killed and 171,304 wounded since Israel's military campaign in Gaza began in October 2023.

Hamas ready for complete withdrawal from Gaza governmental scene: official