Archive · 14 Sep 2026
India Uses 2026 BRICS Summit to Advance Global South Cooperation
India hosted a large meeting called the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.
Countries discussed how to work together on trade, technology, security and global rules.
They agreed to make it easier to trade using their own currencies.
India shared digital tools such as the Unified Payments Interface and Aadhaar with other countries.
Leaders also supported stronger action against terrorism.
They called for more representation for developing countries in major world institutions.
India helped countries with disagreements talk to one another.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held separate meetings with many leaders.
The summit was meant to keep BRICS united and focused on practical cooperation.
India hosted the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13, 2026, under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
The summit adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026, covering local-currency trade, digital infrastructure, counter-terrorism, global governance and United Nations reforms.
India helped Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates endorse language supporting maritime safety, restraint and diplomacy amid West Asian tensions.
Bilateral meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several leaders produced proposed cooperation on trade, energy, transport, investment, technology and security.
India launched a BRICS Digital Public Infrastructure Repository and promoted systems including the Unified Payments Interface, Aadhaar and the Open Network for Digital Commerce.
- Who
- India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leaders of BRICS member states, partner nations and international organisations participated.
- What
- The 18th BRICS Summit adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026 and advanced cooperation on trade, digital infrastructure, counter-terrorism and global governance.
- When
- The summit concluded on Sunday, September 13, 2026, after meetings held over three days.
- Where
- The summit took place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, with bilateral meetings also held at Hyderabad House.
- Why
- India sought to preserve BRICS cohesion, strengthen its role as a Global South bridge and promote practical economic and governance cooperation.
- Host country
- India
- Summit
- 18th BRICS Summit
- Location
- Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
- Official theme
- Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability
- Declaration
- New Delhi Declaration 2026
- Bilateral meetings
- Narendra Modi held 15 sit-down bilateral meetings over three days
- Digital initiative
- BRICS Digital Public Infrastructure Repository
- Financial target
- The New Development Bank was tasked with raising local-currency lending to 40% of its portfolio