The 18th BRICS Summit was held in New Delhi on September 12 and 13 under India’s 2026 chairship. Leaders adopted the 140-point New Delhi Declaration after discussions on international security, trade and economic cooperation.
The situation in West Asia was among the key issues discussed at the summit. BRICS leaders expressed serious concern over the escalation and called for maximum restraint. They backed dialogue and diplomacy as the way to resolve international disputes.
The declaration also addressed the impact of tariffs and other trade measures. Members raised concerns about unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures that could disrupt international trade. They called for a fairer multilateral trading system and stronger cooperation through the World Trade Organization.
BRICS leaders also backed reforms to global institutions. The declaration called for greater representation of developing countries in international decision-making. Reform of the United Nations Security Council was among the issues highlighted, with India and Brazil seeking a larger role in a reformed body.
Financial cooperation was another focus. The BRICS Payment Task Force is examining ways to improve the interoperability of payment and messaging systems. Members also discussed using local currencies for trade settlements and investment. India stressed that there was no proposal for a common BRICS currency.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced an early warning system for infectious diseases. The summit declaration backed cooperation on food security, energy, artificial intelligence and climate action. Leaders also discussed conflicts in Sudan and other regions.
