According to AFP, 11 member nations of the BRICS bloc overcame prior divisions to issue a joint declaration calling for peace in the Middle East during a summit in New Delhi. Chinese President Xi Jinping, attending alongside leaders from Russia, Iran, and other nations, stated at the gathering that the war in the Middle East does not serve the common interests of the international community.
New Delhi Summit Yields Joint Middle East Peace Call
Foreign ministers from the BRICS bloc previously failed to issue a joint statement when they met in New Delhi in May. Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates held divergent views regarding the war, which began with US and Israeli strikes on February 28. However, leaders successfully issued a joint statement this time following intensive diplomatic efforts by host nation India.
The bloc seeks to strengthen its global influence while addressing conflict, trade volatility, and energy security. According to the joint declaration, members expressed profound concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East and West Asia. They urged maximum restraint and the avoidance of actions that could further worsen the situation.
Did you know? BRICS accounts for 50% of the global population, 40% of global GDP, and more than 25% of global trade, according to summit data.
Balancing Diplomatic Ties and Energy Security in South Asia
Established in 2009, BRICS serves as a platform for major emerging economies seeking greater influence in institutions dominated by Western powers. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed leaders at the opening of the two-day summit, stating the necessity to transform the pyramid of privilege into a platform of cooperation. Finding balance within the bloc remains a complex diplomatic task.
India maintains strong ties with both Iran and Israel, a US ally, while carefully managing its relationship with Washington. New Delhi partially resolved energy crises stemming from the US-Iran conflict by turning to Russia. Modi embraced Russian President Vladimir Putin prior to their talks, despite Moscow’s ongoing war in Ukraine and pressure from Western governments.
China-India Relations and Regional Geopolitics
Chinese President Xi Jinping’s attendance marked his first visit to India since 2019, representing a significant step in easing tensions between the two nuclear-armed rivals. Modi and Xi met to discuss bilateral ties, six years after deadly border clashes along the disputed Tibet frontier. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated that both leaders expressed commitment to resolving the border issue fairly and reasonably.
Modi emphasized the need for both sides to abide by existing border agreements. Meanwhile, dozens of Tibetans gathered in New Delhi to protest Xi’s visit. Despite restored high-level contacts and flights, deep-seated distrust remains over the Himalayan border dispute, a growing trade deficit, and strategic competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the BRICS summit held in New Delhi?
The summit took place in September 2026, bringing together leaders from 11 member nations.
What did the BRICS joint declaration address?
The declaration called for maximum restraint and peace in the Middle East amid rising tensions in West Asia.
How do India and China manage their border disputes?
Both nations maintain heavy military deployments along a 3,500-kilometer border while engaging in diplomatic talks to resolve territorial disagreements.
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