Archive · 12 Sep 2026
BRICS Leaders Back Wider AI Access and Technology Cooperation
BRICS leaders agreed on a plan for working together on new technologies.
They said more countries should be able to use artificial intelligence, or AI.
They also said AI should be safe, reliable and helpful while its dangers are reduced.
The leaders supported using space peacefully and limiting problems such as space debris.
They want stronger digital networks, including possible submarine cable links between member countries.
They also want countries to cooperate against cybercrime, misinformation and harmful software.
The plan includes work on quantum technology, startups, robots and advanced factories.
Leaders said young researchers and innovators should have more chances to work together.
BRICS leaders adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026 at the grouping’s 18th summit.
The declaration called for wider AI access and cooperation to make AI safe, secure, inclusive and reliable.
Leaders backed peaceful space activities, long-term space sustainability and efforts to prevent an arms race in outer space.
BRICS countries supported cooperation on digital infrastructure, submarine cables, cybersecurity and ICT supply-chain standards.
The agenda also covered quantum technologies, startups, advanced manufacturing, intellectual property and youth innovation.
- Who
- Leaders of the BRICS countries.
- What
- They adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026, outlining cooperation on AI, space, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and other emerging technologies.
- When
- Saturday, at the 18th BRICS Summit; the declaration is identified as the New Delhi Declaration 2026.
- Where
- New Delhi, India.
- Why
- To expand technology cooperation, support economic and sustainable development, improve digital connectivity and address risks linked to emerging technologies.
- Declaration
- New Delhi Declaration 2026
- Summit
- 18th BRICS Summit
- AI priorities
- Wider access, safety, security, inclusiveness, reliability and risk mitigation
- Space priorities
- Peaceful use of outer space, space sustainability, debris mitigation and prevention of an arms race in space
- Digital infrastructure
- A proposed BRICS digital public infrastructure repository and pilot digital infrastructure projects
- Connectivity
- Continued cooperation on submarine cables and a proposed feasibility study for a high-speed communications network
- Innovation
- Cooperation on quantum technologies, a BRICS Incubator Network and further consideration of a BRICS Startup Innovation Fund
