BRICS Summit 2026: New Delhi Declaration Puts Global South, Peace and Economic Cooperation at Centre
New Delhi, September 13, 2026: India hosted the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12–13, 2026, bringing together leaders of the expanded BRICS grouping amid heightened geopolitical tensions and growing concerns over global trade, security and economic stability. The summit was held under India’s 2026 BRICS chairship at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The summit concluded with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, in which BRICS leaders called for restraint and diplomatic efforts to address escalating conflicts in the Middle East. The declaration also expressed concern over measures that disrupt international trade and emphasized dialogue, consultation and respect for international law.
India Highlights Global South Priorities
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that BRICS should strengthen the voice of the Global South in global decision-making. India also pushed for reforms in international institutions, including greater representation in the United Nations Security Council.
Economic cooperation remained another major focus. BRICS members supported greater use of national currencies in cross-border transactions, stronger payment-system cooperation and expanded financing through the New Development Bank. Rather than announcing a common BRICS currency, the declaration focused on practical mechanisms to make cross-border payments and investments easier.
Technology, AI and Development
The summit also placed technology and artificial intelligence high on the agenda. BRICS leaders backed cooperation on ethical, inclusive and secure AI, while India highlighted initiatives involving digital public infrastructure, healthcare, smart manufacturing and innovation.
Modi-Xi Meeting Draws Attention
A major diplomatic development on the sidelines of the summit was the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two leaders discussed improving bilateral relations, including peace and stability along the India-China border, trade and people-to-people exchanges.
The 2026 BRICS Summit therefore marked an important moment for India’s diplomatic outreach and the evolving role of BRICS in a changing international order. With its focus on resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability, the summit reinforced the grouping’s ambition to give the Global South a stronger voice in global governance.
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