New Delhi Prepares for 18th BRICS Summit Amid Expanded Membership and Global Tensions
India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit in September, marking its first leadership role since the bloc expanded to 11 nations. The assembly faces the complex task of aligning diverse economic interests among emerging powers and established members.
Key takeaways
- New Delhi will host the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12-13, 2026, under India's chairmanship.
- The bloc has expanded to 11 members, now including Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the UAE.
- India aims to prioritize supply chain resilience, climate-ready infrastructure, and agriculture during the negotiations.
- The summit will address the use of national currencies in trade, potentially impacting relations with Western economies.
- Internal geopolitical tensions between members like Iran and the UAE present significant diplomatic hurdles for the host.
On September 12 and 13, New Delhi will serve as the host city for the 18th BRICS Summit. India assumed the chairmanship of the 11-member bloc on January 1, 2026, and is scheduled to hand over leadership to China at the conclusion of the year. This marks India’s fourth time heading the group, following previous stints in 2012, 2016, and 2021.
Background
Founded in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, the group added South Africa in 2010. The organization saw significant growth in 2024 with the arrival of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Indonesia became the most recent full member in 2025. Today, the bloc represents at least 50% of the global population and serves as a major economic and political vehicle for the Global South.
Key Facts
- Full Members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Indonesia.
- Partner Nations: Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
- Summit Theme: Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.
- Confirmed Attendance: High-level leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected.
- Preliminary Accords: Members have already signed the Guwahati Declaration to combat international drug trafficking.
Why It Matters
The summit operates under a guiding philosophy of inclusive growth and practical cooperation. As Chair, India is responsible for coordinating negotiations to produce a unified final declaration. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has highlighted that India’s primary objectives include strengthening global supply chains, diversifying markets, and developing climate-resilient infrastructure. Additionally, the group is exploring the increased use of national currencies for trade, a move that challenges the traditional dominance of the U.S. dollar.
What Happens Next
India face the difficulty of managing internal friction, evidenced by recent disputes between Iranian and UAE delegates during preliminary meetings. Furthermore, New Delhi must balance its BRICS leadership with its obligations in the Quad and G20. Observers expect the final joint declaration to focus on global governance reforms, energy security, and new trade initiatives. The outcome will likely define the bloc's influence in a world currently disrupted by conflicts in Ukraine and Iran.
Source: The Hindu — National
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