<p>A video from the BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi went viral on social media, showing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking Chinese President Xi Jinping, “Is it okay?” Several media reports claimed that PM Modi asked Xi the question because the Chinese president appeared uncomfortable during the summit and did not feel well. Meanwhile, several social media posts and reports claimed that many world leaders who attended the high-stakes summit in New Delhi fell ill after their India visit. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has fact-checked the claims. WION explains what really happened at the BRICS Summit on September 12 and 13.</p><h2><strong>What did media reports, social media posts claim?</strong></h2><p>Media reports claimed that the Chinese president appeared uncomfortable right before PM Modi announced the official opening of the BRICS Summit 2026. In a video shared widely on social media, in which Xi is not visible, PM Modi can be seen pausing his speech and checking on the Chinese leader. “Is it okay?” he asks. After a brief pause, PM Modi continues his BRICS address. According to media reports, Xi was also absent from the gala dinner hosted by PM Modi on the night of September 12. In the videos, PM Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and other leaders were seen arriving for the dinner, but Xi was not seen.</p><p>The speculation later broadened beyond Xi. Reports and social media posts claimed that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had also fallen ill after the summit, with some posts suggesting that multiple leaders had been affected during or after their India visit.</p><h2><strong>Fact check: What really happened at BRICS Summit 2026?</strong></h2><p>After the viral claims, a new video has emerged from Russian state broadcaster Rossiya 1, which captures the Modi-Xi ‘is it okay?’ moment from a different angle. The alternate footage does not show Xi appearing visibly unwell. Instead, officials can be seen attending to what appears to be an issue with his translation earpiece. It is then that PM Modi pauses his speech and asks Xi whether ‘it was okay’, possibly asking if the technical problem was resolved rather than asking about his health.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Claims that Xi Jinping fainted or had a stroke at the BRICS Summit in New Delhi turned out to be fake. <br><br>India&#39;s MEA issued an official &quot;Fake Alert&quot;, calling the posts &quot;malicious.&quot; <br><br>The rumors originated from a Chinese exile opposition figure and spread after Xi skipped a gala… <a href="https://t.co/UXG8Kdyecd">pic.twitter.com/UXG8Kdyecd</a></p>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2100564067777650908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Meanwhile, the MEA debunked the reports of world leaders falling ill at the summit as “misleading” and “malicious”. In a post on X, the ministry urged people to remain cautious against such social media claims and reports.</p><p>“Misleading! We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms!” the MEA said on X.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">⚠️ Misleading!<br><br>We caution against such malicious posts on social media platforms! <a href="https://t.co/YvsNEQ3Jy2">pic.twitter.com/YvsNEQ3Jy2</a></p>&mdash; MEA FactCheck (@MEAFactCheck) <a href="https://x.com/MEAFactCheck/status/2100458620978868383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

PM Modi’s interaction with Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit 2026 went viral, alongside claims about leaders falling ill after the New Delhi summit. A separate video offered a new perspective on the moment. Here’s what we know.

A video from the BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi went viral on social media, showing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi asking Chinese President Xi Jinping, “Is it okay?” Several media reports claimed that PM Modi asked Xi the question because the Chinese president appeared uncomfortable during the summit and did not feel well. Meanwhile, several social media posts and reports claimed that many world leaders who attended the high-stakes summit in New Delhi fell ill after their India visit. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has fact-checked the claims. WION explains what really happened at the BRICS Summit on September 12 and 13. What did media reports, social media posts claim? Media reports claimed that the Chinese president appeared uncomfortable right before PM Modi announced the official opening of the BRICS Summit 2026. In a video shared widely on social media, in which Xi is not visible, PM Modi can be seen pausing his speech and checking on the Chinese leader. “Is it okay?” he asks. After a brief pause, PM Modi continues his BRICS address. According to media reports, Xi was also absent from the gala dinner hosted by PM Modi on the night of September 12. In the videos, PM Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and other leaders were seen arriving for the dinner, but Xi was not seen. The speculation later broadened beyond Xi. Reports and social media posts claimed that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa had also fallen ill after the summit, with some posts suggesting that multiple leaders had been affected during or after their India visit. Fact check: What really happened at BRICS Summit 2026? After the viral claims, a new video has emerged from Russian state broadcaster Rossiya 1, which captures the Modi-Xi ‘is it okay?’ moment from a different angle. The alternate footage does not show Xi appearing visibly unwell. Instead, officials can be seen attending to what appears to be an issue with his translation earpiece. It is then that PM Modi pauses his speech and asks Xi whether ‘it was okay’, possibly asking if the technical problem was resolved rather than asking about his health.

<p>PM Modi’s interaction with Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit 2026 went viral, alongside claims about leaders falling ill after the New Delhi summit. A separate video offered a new perspective on the moment. Here’s what we know.</p>

FACT CHECK: Why did PM Modi ask Xi ‘is it okay’ at BRICS Summit? New video reveals...

<p>Amid deepening of ties between India and Russia, more American tariffs loom large...</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The US House of Representatives has now advanced a key legislation which will come up for a final vote on Wednesday US time.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If cleared, countries like India and China can face US tariffs up to a staggering 100%.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This bill, known as the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, was passed by the US Senate in August.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It allows US President Donald Trump to impose up to 100% tariffs on countries under two scenarios.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>First, the country should have made new purchases of oil or natural gas from Russia, and be among their five largest importers in the last 12 months.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Alternatively, it applies to the top five countries facilitating Russian oil sanctions evasion in the last 12 months.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As China remains the largest importer of Russian crude oil, followed by India, they are likely to be impacted by this...</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But, a key question arises...</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Will this bill be used to leverage US interests during trade talks with countries like China and India?</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It is worth noting that Xi is set to meet Trump on September 24.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Opposing this bill though, Democrats warned that enhanced tariffs would drive up gas and food prices in US, adding to the woes of American households.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, the resolution to advance the bill was approved by a 214 to 211 vote with two democratic lawmakers voting in favour of the legislation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Now, Trump's push for tariffs is not new.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In August last year, US initially imposed a 25% tariff on the import of Indian goods before raising it to 50% over purchase of Russian oil.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In February this year, Trump reduced the tariff to 18% after both countries reached a framework for an interim trade agreement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But after the US Supreme Court struck down Trump's sweeping global tariffs, India is subject to a 10% tariff rate.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Now, Russia became a major alternative source of crude oil for India owing to disruption of energy supplies from West Asia due to the war.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In July, Russia accounted for over half of India's share of crude oil imports.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Russian imports were up more than 62% as compared a year ago.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In August though, Russian oil imports fell by 26%.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>America's move also assumes significance, as it comes just days after India, Russia, China and other key countries of the Global South reaffirmed their unity at the BRICS Summit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The bonhomie between PM Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin was on display yet again.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The two leaders reviewed progress in multiple areas including economy, defence, energy, space, skill mobility and people-to-people exchanges.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Additionally, they also shared perspectives on the situation in West Asia as well as Black Sea, where multiple Indian seafarers have lost their lives due to the ongoing Iran and Russia-Ukraine wars.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While agreeing to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, PM Modi reiterated the role of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and expressed India's willingness to assist in peace efforts.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While the bill is yet to become a law, the question for India remains — How much Russian oil can it continue to buy without triggering US pressure over the pending trade agreement....</p>

As China remains the largest importer of Russian crude oil, followed by India, they are likely to be impacted by this. But a key question arises. Will this bill be used to leverage US interests during trade talks with countries like China and India?

Amid deepening of ties between India and Russia, more American tariffs loom large... The US House of Representatives has now advanced a key legislation which will come up for a final vote on Wednesday US time. If cleared, countries like India and China can face US tariffs up to a staggering 100%. This bill, known as the Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, was passed by the US Senate in August. It allows US President Donald Trump to impose up to 100% tariffs on countries under two scenarios. First, the country should have made new purchases of oil or natural gas from Russia, and be among their five largest importers in the last 12 months. Alternatively, it applies to the top five countries facilitating Russian oil sanctions evasion in the last 12 months. As China remains the largest importer of Russian crude oil, followed by India, they are likely to be impacted by this... But, a key question arises... Will this bill be used to leverage US interests during trade talks with countries like China and India? It is worth noting that Xi is set to meet Trump on September 24. Opposing this bill though, Democrats warned that enhanced tariffs would drive up gas and food prices in US, adding to the woes of American households. However, the resolution to advance the bill was approved by a 214 to 211 vote with two democratic lawmakers voting in favour of the legislation. Now, Trump's push for tariffs is not new. In August last year, US initially imposed a 25% tariff on the import of Indian goods before raising it to 50% over purchase of Russian oil. In February this year, Trump reduced the tariff to 18% after both countries reached a framework for an interim trade agreement. But after the US Supreme Court struck down Trump's sweeping global tariffs, India is subject to a 10% tariff rate. Now, Russia became a major alternative source of crude oil for India owing to disruption of energy supplies from West Asia due to the war. In July, Russia accounted for over half of India's share of crude oil imports. Russian imports were up more than 62% as compared a year ago. In August though, Russian oil imports fell by 26%. America's move also assumes significance, as it comes just days after India, Russia, China and other key countries of the Global South reaffirmed their unity at the BRICS Summit. The bonhomie between PM Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin was on display yet again. The two leaders reviewed progress in multiple areas including economy, defence, energy, space, skill mobility and people-to-people exchanges. Additionally, they also shared perspectives on the situation in West Asia as well as Black Sea, where multiple Indian seafarers have lost their lives due to the ongoing Iran and Russia-Ukraine wars. While agreeing to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, PM Modi reiterated the role of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and expressed India's willingness to assist in peace efforts. While the bill is yet to become a law, the question for India remains — How much Russian oil can it continue to buy without triggering US pressure over the pending trade agreement....

<p>As China remains the largest importer of Russian crude oil, followed by India, they are likely to be impacted by this. But a key question arises. Will this bill be used to leverage US interests during trade talks with countries like China and India?</p>

BRICS success stuns White House, Trump targets India with 100% tariff | Gravitas

<p>Some 72 hours after one of the largest gatherings of world leaders in India, the BRICS summit’s focus on people and mobility offers a useful way to examine what makes international cooperation work in practice. The BRICS New Delhi Declaration places people-to-people cooperation among the bloc’s three central pillars, alongside political and security cooperation and economic and financial cooperation. One of the key focus areas was people and mobility. The message was clear: connectivity is not only about roads, ports, railways and digital networks. It is also about whether students, tourists, business travellers, researchers and families can move across borders with greater clarity and confidence.</p><p>In 2023, nearly 8 million Indians travelled to BRICS countries, while around 414,000 visitors from BRICS nations came to India. Those figures point to a significant imbalance, but they also underline the scale of the opportunity. As trade, education, tourism and investment expand across the bloc, the movement of people will become an increasingly important part of the BRICS story.</p><p>Against this backdrop, one of the most closely watched developments was the gradual resumption of direct air services between India and China after a six-year interruption. China Southern Airlines has re-started regular passenger flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi, marking the return of the carrier’s India service. Direct services have also returned or begun on routes linking Indian and Chinese cities, including New Delhi and Shanghai, Kolkata and Kunming, and Kolkata and Shanghai.&nbsp;</p><p>Air routes are a visible sign of a diplomatic thaw. But they are also economic infrastructure. For BRICS, the larger question is whether this momentum can be extended across the bloc through better air connectivity, interoperable digital systems and more predictable visa arrangements.</p><h2>From transport link to trusted systems</h2><p>One of the prominent collaborators of BRICS governments in the mobility ecosystem is VFS Global. VFS has partnered with some of the most critical BRICS nations like Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia.&nbsp;</p><p>The company was set up in 2001 on a single premise: a government could outsource the queue without outsourcing the decision. Twenty-five years on, that premise underpins a large share of the world's travel. VFS Global currently serves 71 client governments and operates more than 4,200 application centres across 169 countries.&nbsp;</p><h2>The trustworthy systems that run mobility</h2><p>Supporting all of it is an operational network of appointment scheduling, online payment collection, contact-center interactions, translation services, courier logistics, document digitization and data management. More than 240 million biometric enrolments have been completed since 2007. The company is investing in digital platforms, artificial intelligence and data-led technologies to support governments in areas such as predictive analytics, secure identity management and fraud detection.</p><p>VFS Global handles the administrative and non-judgmental aspects of the process. Appointment availability, documentation requirements, processing timelines and the final visa decision remain entirely with the government concerned. The administrative work is completed in advance so that the visa officer spends more time on assessment and less on paperwork.</p><p>That separation is what makes the model portable across very different political systems. A government that wants tighter scrutiny can have it. <img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260916/image-1789553266303.JPG?rect=(0,378,5964,4473)" alt="Image Element"></p><h2>More partnerships in the offing</h2><p>Much of the world's visa, passport and identity paperwork is still processed in-house. Reliable estimates of how much are difficult to pin down, in part because definitions of the market vary widely. VFS Global's view is that considerable potential remains for governments to outsource a greater share of administrative visa, passport, identity and citizen services to specialist providers.</p><p>“We are focusing on mobility and making sure trade improves because when we increase mobility and people travel, trade automatically improves,” says Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global.</p><p>That is the connection BRICS leaders spent two days describing in other languages. Trade corridors are also travel corridors.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The BRICS grouping's focus on people and mobility highlights how air connectivity, visa systems and trusted infrastructure can support tourism, trade, investment and stronger cross-border cooperation.

Some 72 hours after one of the largest gatherings of world leaders in India, the BRICS summit’s focus on people and mobility offers a useful way to examine what makes international cooperation work in practice. The BRICS New Delhi Declaration places people-to-people cooperation among the bloc’s three central pillars, alongside political and security cooperation and economic and financial cooperation. One of the key focus areas was people and mobility. The message was clear: connectivity is not only about roads, ports, railways and digital networks. It is also about whether students, tourists, business travellers, researchers and families can move across borders with greater clarity and confidence. In 2023, nearly 8 million Indians travelled to BRICS countries, while around 414,000 visitors from BRICS nations came to India. Those figures point to a significant imbalance, but they also underline the scale of the opportunity. As trade, education, tourism and investment expand across the bloc, the movement of people will become an increasingly important part of the BRICS story. Against this backdrop, one of the most closely watched developments was the gradual resumption of direct air services between India and China after a six-year interruption. China Southern Airlines has re-started regular passenger flights between Guangzhou and New Delhi, marking the return of the carrier’s India service. Direct services have also returned or begun on routes linking Indian and Chinese cities, including New Delhi and Shanghai, Kolkata and Kunming, and Kolkata and Shanghai. Air routes are a visible sign of a diplomatic thaw. But they are also economic infrastructure. For BRICS, the larger question is whether this momentum can be extended across the bloc through better air connectivity, interoperable digital systems and more predictable visa arrangements. From transport link to trusted systems One of the prominent collaborators of BRICS governments in the mobility ecosystem is VFS Global. VFS has partnered with some of the most critical BRICS nations like Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia. The company was set up in 2001 on a single premise: a government could outsource the queue without outsourcing the decision. Twenty-five years on, that premise underpins a large share of the world's travel. VFS Global currently serves 71 client governments and operates more than 4,200 application centres across 169 countries. The trustworthy systems that run mobility Supporting all of it is an operational network of appointment scheduling, online payment collection, contact-center interactions, translation services, courier logistics, document digitization and data management. More than 240 million biometric enrolments have been completed since 2007. The company is investing in digital platforms, artificial intelligence and data-led technologies to support governments in areas such as predictive analytics, secure identity management and fraud detection. VFS Global handles the administrative and non-judgmental aspects of the process. Appointment availability, documentation requirements, processing timelines and the final visa decision remain entirely with the government concerned. The administrative work is completed in advance so that the visa officer spends more time on assessment and less on paperwork. That separation is what makes the model portable across very different political systems. A government that wants tighter scrutiny can have it. More partnerships in the offing Much of the world's visa, passport and identity paperwork is still processed in-house. Reliable estimates of how much are difficult to pin down, in part because definitions of the market vary widely. VFS Global's view is that considerable potential remains for governments to outsource a greater share of administrative visa, passport, identity and citizen services to specialist providers. “We are focusing on mobility and making sure trade improves because when we increase mobility and people travel, trade automatically improves,” says Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, VFS Global. That is the connection BRICS leaders spent two days describing in other languages. Trade corridors are also travel corridors.

<p>The BRICS grouping's focus on people and mobility highlights how air connectivity, visa systems and trusted infrastructure can support tourism, trade, investment and stronger cross-border cooperation.</p>

People’s connectivity core of BRICS agenda at New Delhi

<p>Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday praised the foreign policy of PM Narendra Modi-led Centre for the condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack in the declaration of the BRICS Summit in Delhi. Omar Abdullah said the BRICS declaration condemning the Pakistan-backed Pahalgam terror attack was a major diplomatic win for India.&nbsp;</p><p>The National Conference leader drew attention to the inclusion of the Pahalgam terror attack in the BRICS New Delhi Declaration, pointing out that it came in the presence of countries that are close allies of Pakistan.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The fact that Pahalgam itself was condemned is a big thing. Please see how many allies of Pakistan were in that room. Therefore, for even Pahalgam to be mentioned by name, that in itself is a success of our foreign policy,” Omar Abdullah said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">“𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐚𝐦 𝐢𝐭𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐛𝐢𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦. 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞, 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐚𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞… <a href="https://t.co/I814d2Ablb">pic.twitter.com/I814d2Ablb</a></p>&mdash; BJP (@BJP4India) <a href="https://x.com/BJP4India/status/2099793740496056537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ai-has-the-potential-to-kill-us-all-ex-deepmind-researcher-sounds-alarm-on-superintelligence-threat-1789475011718"><strong>‘AI has the potential to kill us all’: Ex-DeepMind researcher sounds alarm on superintelligence threat</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>J&amp;K CM remarks came after Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and several world leaders attended the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>J&amp;K CM Omar also welcomed steps aimed at easing tensions along India’s fronts with Pakistan and China. Reacting to the ministry of defence’s report on the operational situation along the Northern Front, he said any move to reduce troop deployments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) or Line of Control (LoC) would be a positive development, particularly for people living in border areas.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ensuring-global-energy-supplies-trump-demands-reimbursement-for-securing-strait-of-hormuz-1789418289895"><strong>‘US ensuring global energy supplies’: Trump demands reimbursement for securing Strait of Hormuz</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Anything that reduces tension along the Line of Control or the Line of Actual Control is a good step, particularly for those people who live close to it. We know that living near the LoC or LAC is extremely difficult for people. If there is any step that reduces deployments along the Line of Actual Control, that is a good step,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Similarly, we hope that, over time, things will also get better along the Line of Control,” Omar added.</p><p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the New Delhi Declaration had been unanimously adopted and called the gathering a huge summit.</p>

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference leader drew attention to the inclusion of the Pahalgam terror attack in the BRICS New Delhi Declaration, pointing out that it came in the presence of countries that are close allies of Pakistan.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday praised the foreign policy of PM Narendra Modi-led Centre for the condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack in the declaration of the BRICS Summit in Delhi. Omar Abdullah said the BRICS declaration condemning the Pakistan-backed Pahalgam terror attack was a major diplomatic win for India. The National Conference leader drew attention to the inclusion of the Pahalgam terror attack in the BRICS New Delhi Declaration, pointing out that it came in the presence of countries that are close allies of Pakistan. “The fact that Pahalgam itself was condemned is a big thing. Please see how many allies of Pakistan were in that room. Therefore, for even Pahalgam to be mentioned by name, that in itself is a success of our foreign policy,” Omar Abdullah said.

<p>Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference leader drew attention to the inclusion of the Pahalgam terror attack in the BRICS New Delhi Declaration, pointing out that it came in the presence of countries that are close allies of Pakistan.</p>

J&K CM Omar Abdullah praises Centre over Pahalgam attack condemnation at BRICS in presence of Pakistan’s allies

<p>For much of the West-led foreign media, India is still the land of snake charmers. A chaotic nation that can't organise anything big, definitely not a global summit. From dismissive coverage, an overt focus on US President Donald Trump's so-called ‘looming shadow’, India-China rivalry to a near-blackout, foreign media tried running down the BRICS Summit 2026 held in New Delhi this past weekend. The only problem? Nobody cared what the Western media had to say.</p><h2>BRICS summit’s own agenda was hardly mentioned in much of the Western media coverage</h2><p>The focus of several global media groups was on issues that were not at the top of the official BRICS agenda: the Ukraine-Russia war, the Iran conflict, and so on. BRICS, meanwhile, was busy forging consensus on some of the thorniest issues the world was facing. Because they weren't waiting for diktats from the West.</p><p>BRICS leaders had work to do, as they were representing around 40 per cent of global GDP and half the world’s population. And at the end, the summit unanimously adopted the nearly 140-point, 45-page New Delhi Declaration, by consensus. As chair and host of BRICS 2026, India had the challenge of holding together an expanded and politically diverse grouping. And it did so, without turning BRICS into an explicitly anti-Western bloc.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-brics-joint-declaration-adopted-amid-west-asia-1789273195098/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-brics-joint-declaration-adopted-amid-west-asia-1789273195098/embed</a></p><h2>From Trump to Russia-Ukraine: Foreign media used Western geopolitical lenses</h2><p>The BBC headline said, “Trump shadow looms large over BRICS as Modi hosts Putin and Xi”. So somehow, BRICS was all about how to deal with Trump. The New York Times focused on India and China competing for influence in the Global South. It didn't anticipate that dialogue can help iron out differences.</p><p>Bloomberg gave Prime Minister Narendra Modi credit for forging consensus “in the shadow” of the worsening Iran war. It acknowledged that what happened in Delhi was a diplomatic coup, but immediately returned to the argument that the Xi-Modi thaw “concealed deeper divisions”. For context, despite all the anti-China stance and rhetoric of the US, Trump will be meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in a few days from now.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/brics-in-pictures-leaders-diplomacy-and-viral-moments-from-delhi-summit-1789316925917">BRICS in pictures: Leaders, diplomacy and viral moments from Delhi summit</a></p><h2>Was BRICS the forum to solve wars? Some Western media seem to think so</h2><p>The Financial Times, The Independent and others highlighted internal tensions within BRICS, such as differences between Iran and Gulf members. They talked up the Ukraine-Russia war, as if the BRICS Summit was called to resolve these conflicts. They openly questioned how much the summit could actually deliver. If they read the Declaration, they will know.</p><p>Ironically, Ukraine – whose president gets prominent airtime at practically all West-led summits – barely figured in the New Delhi Declaration or the talks preceding it.</p><p>On West Asia, the language was respectful, measured, diplomatic and all-encompassing, with BRICS calling for restraint. None of the belligerents – Iran, the US or Israel – were explicitly named. But to the Western media, these omissions were evidence of weakness. They didn't see that while the major powers could not get the text or spirit right on a truce in West Asia or Ukraine, India's greatest achievement was the consensus itself.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/did-brics-summit-2026-prove-that-an-11-member-bloc-with-india-and-china-in-it-can-still-agree-on-key-issues-1789292891454">Did BRICS Summit 2026 prove that an 11-member bloc with India and China in it can still agree on key issues?</a></p><h2>China-India rivalry: The recurring Western media angle</h2><p>Most of the outlets highlighted competition, and not cooperation, between China and India. The coverage nitpicked on the ‘limitations’ of the thaw in relations. Brushed under the carpet was the fact that Xi was visiting a nation with which China had border clashes in Doklam and the Galwan Valley only a few years ago. Or that China-India trade continued to grow despite the tensions.</p><p>Also ignored was that, despite this ‘rivalry’, the summit had a single voice on terrorism, Global South representation, UN and IMF reform, local-currency payments, digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence. These were aspects that demonstrated that cooperation was possible despite differences.</p><h2>You bring the photos, I'll dismiss that summit</h2><p>Visuals are everything, and what angle a media outlet turns its lens towards speaks a lot about the thinking process of its newsroom. The photos that appeared alongside articles in much of the Western media coverage tell their own story: giant BRICS or Modi billboards paired with bicycles, mopeds, auto-rickshaws and street workers.</p><p>That's reductionism. Western media needed confirmation that India is still poor. Their photo cropping did that job.</p><h2>Ignoring tells a story: BRICS received less prominence than its scale</h2><p>In many cases, Western publications relegated the coverage to wire reports or analytical pieces. On print and TV, BRICS was not a top prime-time or front-page story.</p><p>India was aware of the burden of expectations in a fragmented world. “Will they succeed or fail?”, was the story Western media was salivating over. In the run-up to the summit, India deliberately avoided excessive banners, speeches and publicity.</p><p>The foreign media tried to portray BRICS as a divided, ineffective or anti-Western project. India was not trying to create a NATO-style alliance. India wanted to prove that countries with competing interests could still reach consensus.</p><p>At the end of the day, an increasingly diverse bloc agreed to agree. That was the point of the summit.</p><p><i><strong>Disclaimer: The writer's views do not represent those of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer."</strong>&nbsp;</i></p>

Western media coverage of BRICS Summit 2026 focused on Trump, Ukraine, Iran and India-China rivalry. India instead delivered consensus, exposing the gap between the summit's agenda and foreign media coverage.

For much of the West-led foreign media, India is still the land of snake charmers. A chaotic nation that can't organise anything big, definitely not a global summit. From dismissive coverage, an overt focus on US President Donald Trump's so-called ‘looming shadow’, India-China rivalry to a near-blackout, foreign media tried running down the BRICS Summit 2026 held in New Delhi this past weekend. The only problem? Nobody cared what the Western media had to say. BRICS summit’s own agenda was hardly mentioned in much of the Western media coverage The focus of several global media groups was on issues that were not at the top of the official BRICS agenda: the Ukraine-Russia war, the Iran conflict, and so on. BRICS, meanwhile, was busy forging consensus on some of the thorniest issues the world was facing. Because they weren't waiting for diktats from the West. BRICS leaders had work to do, as they were representing around 40 per cent of global GDP and half the world’s population. And at the end, the summit unanimously adopted the nearly 140-point, 45-page New Delhi Declaration, by consensus. As chair and host of BRICS 2026, India had the challenge of holding together an expanded and politically diverse grouping. And it did so, without turning BRICS into an explicitly anti-Western bloc. https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-brics-joint-declaration-adopted-amid-west-asia-1789273195098/embed From Trump to Russia-Ukraine: Foreign media used Western geopolitical lenses The BBC headline said, “Trump shadow looms large over BRICS as Modi hosts Putin and Xi”. So somehow, BRICS was all about how to deal with Trump. The New York Times focused on India and China competing for influence in the Global South. It didn't anticipate that dialogue can help iron out differences. Bloomberg gave Prime Minister Narendra Modi credit for forging consensus “in the shadow” of the worsening Iran war. It acknowledged that what happened in Delhi was a diplomatic coup, but immediately returned to the argument that the Xi-Modi thaw “concealed deeper divisions”. For context, despite all the anti-China stance and rhetoric of the US, Trump will be meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in a few days from now. Also read: BRICS in pictures: Leaders, diplomacy and viral moments from Delhi summit Was BRICS the forum to solve wars? Some Western media seem to think so The Financial Times, The Independent and others highlighted internal tensions within BRICS, such as differences between Iran and Gulf members. They talked up the Ukraine-Russia war, as if the BRICS Summit was called to resolve these conflicts. They openly questioned how much the summit could actually deliver. If they read the Declaration, they will know. Ironically, Ukraine – whose president gets prominent airtime at practically all West-led summits – barely figured in the New Delhi Declaration or the talks preceding it. On West Asia, the language was respectful, measured, diplomatic and all-encompassing, with BRICS calling for restraint. None of the belligerents – Iran, the US or Israel – were explicitly named. But to the Western media, these omissions were evidence of weakness. They didn't see that while the major powers could not get the text or spirit right on a truce in West Asia or Ukraine, India's greatest achievement was the consensus itself. Also read: Did BRICS Summit 2026 prove that an 11-member bloc with India and China in it can still agree on key issues? China-India rivalry: The recurring Western media angle Most of the outlets highlighted competition, and not cooperation, between China and India. The coverage nitpicked on the ‘limitations’ of the thaw in relations. Brushed under the carpet was the fact that Xi was visiting a nation with which China had border clashes in Doklam and the Galwan Valley only a few years ago. Or that China-India trade continued to grow despite the tensions. Also ignored was that, despite this ‘rivalry’, the summit had a single voice on terrorism, Global South representation, UN and IMF reform, local-currency payments, digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence. These were aspects that demonstrated that cooperation was possible despite differences. You bring the photos, I'll dismiss that summit Visuals are everything, and what angle a media outlet turns its lens towards speaks a lot about the thinking process of its newsroom. The photos that appeared alongside articles in much of the Western media coverage tell their own story: giant BRICS or Modi billboards paired with bicycles, mopeds, auto-rickshaws and street workers. That's reductionism. Western media needed confirmation that India is still poor. Their photo cropping did that job. Ignoring tells a story: BRICS received less prominence than its scale In many cases, Western publications relegated the coverage to wire reports or analytical pieces. On print and TV, BRICS was not a top prime-time or front-page story. India was aware of the burden of expectations in a fragmented world. “Will they succeed or fail?”, was the story Western media was salivating over. In the run-up to the summit, India deliberately avoided excessive banners, speeches and publicity. The foreign media tried to portray BRICS as a divided, ineffective or anti-Western project. India was not trying to create a NATO-style alliance. India wanted to prove that countries with competing interests could still reach consensus. At the end of the day, an increasingly diverse bloc agreed to agree. That was the point of the summit. Disclaimer: The writer's views do not represent those of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer."

<p>Western media coverage of BRICS Summit 2026 focused on Trump, Ukraine, Iran and India-China rivalry. India instead delivered consensus, exposing the gap between the summit's agenda and foreign media coverage.</p>

BRICS Summit 2026 was played down, dismissed or nearly blacked out by Western media. That didn't work

<p>US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and special adviser, Jared Kushner, said that the international pressure fallout from Israel’s strike in Doha last year allowed the US to push Israel towards a Gaza agreement. In a video appearance at a conference in Kyiv over the weekend, Kushner stated that Washington utilised the situation created by the strike to increase pressure on Israel and move it towards a deal.</p><p><br>Kushner's statements were in connection to the September 2025 military strike in Doha, Qatar, where Israeli warplanes targeted senior Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar. However, the strike failed to eliminate the top leadership, resulting instead in the deaths of lower-ranking members and a Qatari security officer.</p><p><br>“We used that dynamic in order to push them into a deal that now today they’re quite happy with,” he said. “At the time, they were a little uncomfortable with kind of what we were pushing them to do," Kushner said, adding that the attack, however, proved beneficial for Israel as well as the people of Gaza with the formation of new government.</p><p><br>“Ultimately, it turned out to be great for them,” he said of Israel. “And it turned out to be great for the people of Gaza, because now we have a new government there.” Kushner did not hold back in his assessment of Israel's operation in Doha.</p><p><br>“Israel did the strike in Doha, which was a terrible thing,” Kushner said. “And obviously, it was unsuccessful as a military operation. And that led to Israel being globally isolated.” He indicated that the new governing structure in Gaza was expected to step in as progress is made on demilitarisation efforts, stating that this new setup is set to take over soon once headway is made on that front.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-discovers-110-million-tonnes-of-uranium-rich-ore-in-madinah-region-1789389443625">Saudi Arabia discovers 110 million tonnes of Uranium-rich ore in Madinah region</a></p><h3>What is BRICS statement targeting Israel?</h3><p>The 140-point document of the BRICS Summit mostly deals with broad global issues, trade between countries, rules around AI, fighting terrorism, and reforming the United Nations, In the document, paragraphs 30 through 35 highlights a rare and unequivocal rebuke of Israel's interests under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in West Asia.</p><p><br>When it comes to Israel the declaration is far more explicit. On the Gaza issue, BRICS voiced alarm over the ongoing violence, rejected any forced displacement of Palestinians, and reaffirmed its backing for a sovereign Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem serving as its capital.</p><p><br>The bloc also pointed to the case South Africa has filed against Israel at the International Court of Justice, noting Israel's “legal obligation to ensure the provision of humanitarian aid in Gaza."</p>

Jared Kushner's statements were in connection with the September 2025 military strike in Doha, Qatar, where Israeli warplanes targeted senior Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar. 

US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and special adviser, Jared Kushner, said that the international pressure fallout from Israel’s strike in Doha last year allowed the US to push Israel towards a Gaza agreement. In a video appearance at a conference in Kyiv over the weekend, Kushner stated that Washington utilised the situation created by the strike to increase pressure on Israel and move it towards a deal. Kushner's statements were in connection to the September 2025 military strike in Doha, Qatar, where Israeli warplanes targeted senior Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar. However, the strike failed to eliminate the top leadership, resulting instead in the deaths of lower-ranking members and a Qatari security officer. “We used that dynamic in order to push them into a deal that now today they’re quite happy with,” he said. “At the time, they were a little uncomfortable with kind of what we were pushing them to do," Kushner said, adding that the attack, however, proved beneficial for Israel as well as the people of Gaza with the formation of new government. “Ultimately, it turned out to be great for them,” he said of Israel. “And it turned out to be great for the people of Gaza, because now we have a new government there.” Kushner did not hold back in his assessment of Israel's operation in Doha. “Israel did the strike in Doha, which was a terrible thing,” Kushner said. “And obviously, it was unsuccessful as a military operation. And that led to Israel being globally isolated.” He indicated that the new governing structure in Gaza was expected to step in as progress is made on demilitarisation efforts, stating that this new setup is set to take over soon once headway is made on that front. Also read: Saudi Arabia discovers 110 million tonnes of Uranium-rich ore in Madinah region What is BRICS statement targeting Israel? The 140-point document of the BRICS Summit mostly deals with broad global issues, trade between countries, rules around AI, fighting terrorism, and reforming the United Nations, In the document, paragraphs 30 through 35 highlights a rare and unequivocal rebuke of Israel's interests under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in West Asia. When it comes to Israel the declaration is far more explicit. On the Gaza issue, BRICS voiced alarm over the ongoing violence, rejected any forced displacement of Palestinians, and reaffirmed its backing for a sovereign Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem serving as its capital. The bloc also pointed to the case South Africa has filed against Israel at the International Court of Justice, noting Israel's “legal obligation to ensure the provision of humanitarian aid in Gaza."

<p>Jared Kushner's statements were in connection with the September 2025 military strike in Doha, Qatar, where Israeli warplanes targeted senior Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar.&nbsp;</p>

From BRICS rebuke to Kushner's Doha strike statement: Is Israel being isolated globally?

<p>Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysian Prime Minister, met A P Aboobacker Musliyar, All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama general secretary and Indian Grand Mufti Kanthapuram at the Markaz Central Campus in Kozhikode, Kerala, on Sunday (September 13) during his five-day visit to India. They met a day after Ibrahim stated that he did not agree with all of the views of Kanthapuram, especially the Sunni scholar’s recent statement against women, saying they should remain inside their homes.</p><p><br>While addressing the media on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Saturday (September 12), Ibrahim described Kanthapuram as a traditional Islamic scholar who played a significant role in contributing to the study and teaching of the Quran, focusing on the Islamic tradition and the life of Prophet Muhammad.</p><h3>Ibrahim finds nothing wrong with Kanthapuram's remark</h3><p>However, he clarified that admiring the scholar did not mean that he is endorsing all his views. Drawing a distinction, the Malaysian PM pointed out that Kanthapuram, despite his remarks on women, also runs an institution dedicated to women’s education. He drew a contrast in his statement about women and said that he is less troubled by the cleric's statement when seen in a broader light.</p><p><br>Ibrahim added that if pressed on his own stance, he would unequivocally affirm that women in Malaysia enjoy equal rights. He had landed at Karipur airport in Malappuram on Sunday, where Agriculture Minister T Siddique welcomed him on behalf of the Kerala government, the district administration said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dil-toh-pagal-hai-for-modi-chale-chalo-for-putin-malaysian-pm-anwar-ibrahim-s-bollywood-playlist-goes-viral-during-brics-visit-1789373447026">‘Dil Toh Pagal Hai’ for Modi, ‘Chale Chalo’ for Putin: Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim's Bollywood playlist goes viral during BRICS visit</a></p><p><br>During his visit to Markaz, Ibrahim engaged in discussions with Kanthapuram covering education, global peace, social development, and how religious scholars should respond to modern developments such as artificial intelligence. The two also touched on socio-cultural exchange and potential peace efforts involving nations affected by conflict.</p><p><br>As part of the visit, the Malaysian PM received the inaugural Excellence Award set up by the Sheikh Abubacker Foundation, which Kanthapuram presented to him at a reception held at the Markaz convention centre. Later, Ibrahim attended a special prayer congregation and a gathering where prominent faces from the religious, political and social spheres were present. The Malaysian PM also paid a visit to the Madavoor C M Valiyullah Makham, a prominent spiritual centre, along with senior Sunni leaders.</p>

Malaysian Prime Minister described Kanthapuram as a traditional Islamic scholar who played a significant role in contributing to the study and teaching of the Quran, focusing on the Islamic tradition and the life of Prophet Muhammad.

Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysian Prime Minister, met A P Aboobacker Musliyar, All India Sunni Jamiyyathul Ulama general secretary and Indian Grand Mufti Kanthapuram at the Markaz Central Campus in Kozhikode, Kerala, on Sunday (September 13) during his five-day visit to India. They met a day after Ibrahim stated that he did not agree with all of the views of Kanthapuram, especially the Sunni scholar’s recent statement against women, saying they should remain inside their homes. While addressing the media on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Saturday (September 12), Ibrahim described Kanthapuram as a traditional Islamic scholar who played a significant role in contributing to the study and teaching of the Quran, focusing on the Islamic tradition and the life of Prophet Muhammad. Ibrahim finds nothing wrong with Kanthapuram's remark However, he clarified that admiring the scholar did not mean that he is endorsing all his views. Drawing a distinction, the Malaysian PM pointed out that Kanthapuram, despite his remarks on women, also runs an institution dedicated to women’s education. He drew a contrast in his statement about women and said that he is less troubled by the cleric's statement when seen in a broader light. Ibrahim added that if pressed on his own stance, he would unequivocally affirm that women in Malaysia enjoy equal rights. He had landed at Karipur airport in Malappuram on Sunday, where Agriculture Minister T Siddique welcomed him on behalf of the Kerala government, the district administration said. Also read: ‘Dil Toh Pagal Hai’ for Modi, ‘Chale Chalo’ for Putin: Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim's Bollywood playlist goes viral during BRICS visit During his visit to Markaz, Ibrahim engaged in discussions with Kanthapuram covering education, global peace, social development, and how religious scholars should respond to modern developments such as artificial intelligence. The two also touched on socio-cultural exchange and potential peace efforts involving nations affected by conflict. As part of the visit, the Malaysian PM received the inaugural Excellence Award set up by the Sheikh Abubacker Foundation, which Kanthapuram presented to him at a reception held at the Markaz convention centre. Later, Ibrahim attended a special prayer congregation and a gathering where prominent faces from the religious, political and social spheres were present. The Malaysian PM also paid a visit to the Madavoor C M Valiyullah Makham, a prominent spiritual centre, along with senior Sunni leaders.

<p>Malaysian Prime Minister described Kanthapuram as a traditional Islamic scholar who played a significant role in contributing to the study and teaching of the Quran, focusing on the Islamic tradition and the life of Prophet Muhammad.</p>

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim meets controversial cleric Kanthapuram, says 'don't agree with all his views'

<p>Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is in India and attended the recently attended 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. While he had various viral moments including a moment when he sang a song during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's gala dinner, internet focussed on something else related to him. Ibrahim shared a series of photographs on Instagram featuring himself with several world leaders, including PM Modi. Users were quick to notice the songs that he chose as background music for these photos. Interestingly, many of his selections were popular Bollywood tracks from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. This added an unexpected Indian pop-culture touch to his diplomatic posts and prompting social media users to take notice.</p><h2>Picture with PM Modi: ‘<i>Dill toh pagal hai</i>’ and<i> ‘I am the best’</i></h2><p>For his picture with PM Modi, Ibrahim picked <i>Dil Toh Pagal Hai</i> from Shah Rukh Khan–Madhuri Dixit–Karisma Kapoor film <i>Dil To Pagal Hai</i>, along with <i>I Am the Best</i> from SRK-Juhi Chawla's <i>Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani</i>. Definitely, an unusually Bollywood way to soundtrack a diplomatic photo-op.</p>

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<h2>His own pictures while addressing BRICS Summit:<i> ‘Har Dill Jo Pyar Karega’</i></h2><p>For pictures of himself addressing the BRICS Summit, Ibrahim chose <i>Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega</i> from the 2000 Salman Khan, Rani Mukerji and Preity Zinta-starrer <i>Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega</i>. The song’s message togetherness makes for a fitting soundtrack to the BRICS pictures.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdOQAuHmFYR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdOQAuHmFYR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdOQAuHmFYR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim_my)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<h2>Departing from New Delhi: <i>‘Des Rangila’</i></h2><p>As he departed New Delhi, Ibrahim selected <i>Des Rangila</i> from the 2006 Aamir Khan-starrer <i>Fanaa</i>. The patriotic track gives his departure post touches the right patriotic chord for Indians.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdO-1oRGJiJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdO-1oRGJiJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdO-1oRGJiJ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim_my)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<h2>Picture with Kerala's controversial cleric Kanthapuram:<i> ‘Hum toh deewane hue yaar’</i></h2><p>After departing from New Delhi, he reached Kerala and met met controversial Islamic cleric Kanthapuram Aboobacker Musliyar. He said despite saying that he does not agree with the Sunni scholar’s views on women but appreciates his work for women. For his picture with Kerala cleric Kanthapuram, Ibrahim went with <i>Hum Toh Deewane Hue Yaar</i> from the 1995 film <i>Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi</i>.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdOl9domGCN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdOl9domGCN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdOl9domGCN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim_my)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<h2>Picture with Rahul Gandhi: <i>‘Aisa Des Hai Mera’</i></h2><p>For his photograph with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Ibrahim chose <i>Aisa Des Hai Mera</i> from <i>Veer-Zaara</i> (2004), starring Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta. The song celebrates the idea of India and its cultural diversity, making it a natural fit for the photograph.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdN-tnPg35W/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdN-tnPg35W/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdN-tnPg35W/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim_my)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<h2>Picture with several BRICS leaders: <i>‘Khwab ho tum’</i></h2><p>For a photograph with several BRICS leaders, Ibrahim selected <i>Khwab Ho Tum</i> from the 1965 Dev Anand-starrer <i>Teen Devian</i>. The dreamy classic adds a wonderfully cinematic touch to an otherwise formal gathering of global leaders.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdNWK4ZGA6H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdNWK4ZGA6H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; 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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdNWK4ZGA6H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim_my)</a></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>Picture with Iranian President Pezeshkian: ‘<i>Saathi Haath Badhana</i>’</h2><p>Most iconic was his choice of song with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Ibrahim chose <i>Saathi Haath Badhana</i> from the 1957 film <i>Naya Daur</i>, starring Dilip Kumar and Vyjayanthimala. The song is about joining hands and moving forward together and it suits amid the current geopolitical tensions between Iran and the US. Malaysian PM had publicly criticized the United States and Israel for initiating aggression against Iran. But he maintained that Malaysia remains a neutral party.</p>

<h2>Picture with Russian President Vladimir Putin: <i>‘Chale Chalo’</i></h2>

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<p>Another striking song was the one he used with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ibrahim picked <i>Chale Chalo</i> from the 2001 Aamir Khan-starrer <i>Lagaan</i>. The song’s theme of moving forward together aligns with the diplomatic photograph. It is almost like a message Malaysia is sending to Russia as well as India to march ahead amid global uncertainty to make it a multipolar world.&nbsp;</p><h2>Other viral moments</h2>

<p>The Malaysian PM calling PM Modi ‘popular’ during bilateral meeting has also gone viral. In the video, Ibrahim is seen shaking hands with PM Modi but before taking his seat, Ibrahim looks at India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar (who is not visible in the video) and says: “He is so popular. I got so many messages to pass on regards to him.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Modi wave has a global echo!<br><br>Malaysian PM Mr. Anwar Ibrahim’s candid quip says it all... <a href="https://t.co/fjDk8cfWCi">pic.twitter.com/fjDk8cfWCi</a></p>&mdash; Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) <a href="https://x.com/smritiirani/status/2098676733285478736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Not only this, another moment made Anwar Ibrahim viral in India on Day 1 of BRICS Summit. He brought an unexpected musical touch to the high-level diplomatic event during the gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam. Accompanied by a live pianist, the Malaysian leader spontaneously sang Kishore Kumar's classic 1965 Hindi song "Khwaab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat".&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🇲🇾❤️🇮🇳 MALAYSIA’S PM STEALS THE SHOW AT BRICS 2026! 🔥<br><br>Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim surprised everyone by singing a Hindi song during his visit to Delhi for the BRICS Summit. 🎶❤️<br><br>A beautiful India–Malaysia moment! 🇮🇳🤝🇲🇾 <a href="https://t.co/IaXKVdZ9rt">pic.twitter.com/IaXKVdZ9rt</a></p>&mdash; NEUTRAL INDIA (@_neutralindia) <a href="https://x.com/_neutralindia/status/2098970660014076217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim has given his BRICS visit an unexpected Bollywood twist. From Dil Toh Pagal Hai for PM Modi to Saathi Haath Badhana for Iran and Chale Chalo for Putin, his musical choices caught social media’s attention.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is in India and attended the recently attended 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. While he had various viral moments including a moment when he sang a song during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's gala dinner, internet focussed on something else related to him. Ibrahim shared a series of photographs on Instagram featuring himself with several world leaders, including PM Modi. Users were quick to notice the songs that he chose as background music for these photos. Interestingly, many of his selections were popular Bollywood tracks from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. This added an unexpected Indian pop-culture touch to his diplomatic posts and prompting social media users to take notice. Picture with PM Modi: ‘Dill toh pagal hai’ and ‘I am the best’ For his picture with PM Modi, Ibrahim picked Dil Toh Pagal Hai from Shah Rukh Khan–Madhuri Dixit–Karisma Kapoor film Dil To Pagal Hai, along with I Am the Best from SRK-Juhi Chawla's Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani. Definitely, an unusually Bollywood way to soundtrack a diplomatic photo-op.

<p>Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim has given his BRICS visit an unexpected Bollywood twist. From <i>Dil Toh Pagal Hai</i> for PM Modi to <i>Saathi Haath Badhana</i> for Iran and <i>Chale Chalo</i> for Putin, his musical choices caught social media’s attention.</p>

‘Dil Toh Pagal Hai’ for Modi, ‘Chale Chalo’ for Putin: Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim's Bollywood playlist goes viral during BRICS visit

<p>Russia has proposed its Ivolga FG high-speed train for India, with Russian rolling stock manufacturer Transmashholding (TMH) stating that it will jointly develop and produce the train in the country. The presentation of the Ivolga FG high-speed train concept occurred on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi. The Ivolga FG concept has a design speed of 360 kmph and is being presented as a potential high-speed rail solution for India. TMH has proposed joint research and development in high-speed railway technology, using Russian engineering and scientific expertise.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bullet-train-timeline-revealed-testing-by-may-june-2027-commercial-run-by-year-end-1788868104110">Bullet train timeline revealed: Testing by May-June 2027</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>TMH already has an India partnership through Kinet Railway Solutions, a joint venture involving TMH and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL). The company is working on the manufacture and maintenance of Vande Bharat sleeper trains for Indian Railways. The project involves manufacturing 120 Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets, each comprising 16 coaches, at the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory in Latur, Maharashtra.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-orange-snake-in-the-hills-vande-bharat-s-stunning-western-ghats-journey-goes-viral-1787664579880">Vande Bharat's stunning Western Ghats journey goes viral</a></p><h2>What we know about Ivolga?</h2><p>The Ivolga (designated EG2Tv and EGE2Tv) is a family of modern electric multiple unit (EMU) commuter and urban passenger trains manufactured by Transmashholding at the Tver Carriage Works in Russia. Designed specifically for high-capacity urban-rail and surface metro systems, most notably operating on the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD) lines. Evolved through several iterations from Ivolga 1.0 up to the newer Ivolga 4.0, which features three doors per intermediate car to speed up passenger boarding and alighting by up to 30 per cent. Standard production variants reach maximum speeds of 120 to 160 km/h with rapid acceleration, and they are capable of reversing direction at terminal stations in just 1 to 2 minutes. Features wide doorways (1,400 mm), open intercar gangways, adaptive smart lighting, USB charging ports, climate control, and designated spaces for bicycles, scooters, and passengers with reduced mobility. Newer generations boast over 90% to 97% domestically sourced Russian components and parts</p>

Russia has offered India its Ivolga FG high-speed train, designed to reach 360 kmph, with manufacturer Transmashholding proposing joint development and local production. TMH already works with RVNL on 120 Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets

Russia has proposed its Ivolga FG high-speed train for India, with Russian rolling stock manufacturer Transmashholding (TMH) stating that it will jointly develop and produce the train in the country. The presentation of the Ivolga FG high-speed train concept occurred on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi. The Ivolga FG concept has a design speed of 360 kmph and is being presented as a potential high-speed rail solution for India. TMH has proposed joint research and development in high-speed railway technology, using Russian engineering and scientific expertise. Also Read: Bullet train timeline revealed: Testing by May-June 2027 TMH already has an India partnership through Kinet Railway Solutions, a joint venture involving TMH and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL). The company is working on the manufacture and maintenance of Vande Bharat sleeper trains for Indian Railways. The project involves manufacturing 120 Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets, each comprising 16 coaches, at the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory in Latur, Maharashtra. Also Read: Vande Bharat's stunning Western Ghats journey goes viral What we know about Ivolga? The Ivolga (designated EG2Tv and EGE2Tv) is a family of modern electric multiple unit (EMU) commuter and urban passenger trains manufactured by Transmashholding at the Tver Carriage Works in Russia. Designed specifically for high-capacity urban-rail and surface metro systems, most notably operating on the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD) lines. Evolved through several iterations from Ivolga 1.0 up to the newer Ivolga 4.0, which features three doors per intermediate car to speed up passenger boarding and alighting by up to 30 per cent. Standard production variants reach maximum speeds of 120 to 160 km/h with rapid acceleration, and they are capable of reversing direction at terminal stations in just 1 to 2 minutes. Features wide doorways (1,400 mm), open intercar gangways, adaptive smart lighting, USB charging ports, climate control, and designated spaces for bicycles, scooters, and passengers with reduced mobility. Newer generations boast over 90% to 97% domestically sourced Russian components and parts

<p>Russia has offered India its Ivolga FG high-speed train, designed to reach 360 kmph, with manufacturer Transmashholding proposing joint development and local production. TMH already works with RVNL on 120 Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets</p>

Russia proposes to build 360 kmph Ivolga FG trains in India: What happened on sidelines of BRICS

<p>The ongoing conflict in West Asia, the closure of key maritime trade routes and the resulting supply disruption put the BRICS Summit in highlight as Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian’s attended the summit along with other players from the Middle East.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It was a tough diplomatic test for Delhi, but the hosts overcame all the challenges and managed a carefully negotiated language on the West Asia conflict. Moreover, an unanticipated Iran-UAE engagement placed India at the centre of a wider regional diplomatic effort.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The net result has enhanced Delhi’s increasingly important role as a diplomatic bridge in a fractured region.</p><p>The challenge for New Delhi was to prevent divisions over the West Asia conflict from spilling at the forum. While Iran sought stronger condemnation of Israeli and US actions, the Gulf countries had their own security concerns.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-ukraine-to-stop-targeting-russian-refineries-says-attacks-causing-shortage-of-diesel-1789316749492"><strong>Trump tells Ukraine to stop targeting Russian refineries, says attacks causing shortage of diesel</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The New Delhi Declaration proved the diplomatic prowess, as instead of sharp rhetoric by either side, BRICS settled on language centred on the deteriorating situation in West Asia, civilian protection, sovereignty, restraint and the need for dialogue and diplomacy.</p><p>The result was significant as it allowed Iran to remain within the consensus without forcing other BRICS members to endorse its position on the conflict.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But the most revealing moment came outside the formal summit proceedings.</p><p>Pezeshkian’s meeting with UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan brought two regional actors into direct conversation at a time when their interests differ and have been affected by the conflict.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-condemns-attack-on-merchant-vessel-off-oman-coast-13-indian-crew-rescued-one-missing-1789311950141"><strong>India condemns attack on merchant vessel off Oman coast; 13 Indian crew rescued, one missing</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The meeting was the highest-level engagement between Tehran and Abu Dhabi since the outbreak of the conflict.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>BRICS provided a diplomatic platform and cover for an engagement that was considerably more difficult amid the raging tensions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The summit fully demonstrated India’s balancing act. It became a platform where rivals could talk, while the grouping focused on a common diplomatic vocabulary.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Pezeshkian’s visit was significant as it was his first trip to India as president and the first visit by an Iranian president to the country in more than eight years.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India reiterated its position that disputes must be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy, while stressing the importance of protecting freedom of navigation, commercial shipping and seafarers.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/want-to-reset-ties-with-india-have-engagement-based-on-mutual-interests-says-bangladesh-minister-1789326034045"><strong>‘Want to reset ties with India, have engagement based on mutual interests,’ says Bangladesh minister</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier BRICS meetings hosted by India had struggled to produce consensus on the Iran conflict, with Tehran seeking stronger criticism of US and Israeli actions while the UAE pushed for language reflecting concerns over Iranian attacks on Gulf targets.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The final declaration avoided assigning blame to either side. It expressed serious concern over the deteriorating situation in West Asia and called for maximum restraint, dialogue, diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, protection of civilians and the safeguarding of maritime stability.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The summit served as a test of the group’s cohesion and influence, with PM Narendra Modi advocating for global institutional reform and enhanced cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

It was a tough diplomatic test for Delhi, but the hosts overcame all the challenges and managed a carefully negotiated language on the West Asia conflict. Moreover, an unanticipated Iran-UAE engagement placed India at the centre of a wider regional diplomatic effort.

The ongoing conflict in West Asia, the closure of key maritime trade routes and the resulting supply disruption put the BRICS Summit in highlight as Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian’s attended the summit along with other players from the Middle East. It was a tough diplomatic test for Delhi, but the hosts overcame all the challenges and managed a carefully negotiated language on the West Asia conflict. Moreover, an unanticipated Iran-UAE engagement placed India at the centre of a wider regional diplomatic effort. The net result has enhanced Delhi’s increasingly important role as a diplomatic bridge in a fractured region. The challenge for New Delhi was to prevent divisions over the West Asia conflict from spilling at the forum. While Iran sought stronger condemnation of Israeli and US actions, the Gulf countries had their own security concerns. Also Read: Trump tells Ukraine to stop targeting Russian refineries, says attacks causing shortage of diesel The New Delhi Declaration proved the diplomatic prowess, as instead of sharp rhetoric by either side, BRICS settled on language centred on the deteriorating situation in West Asia, civilian protection, sovereignty, restraint and the need for dialogue and diplomacy. The result was significant as it allowed Iran to remain within the consensus without forcing other BRICS members to endorse its position on the conflict. But the most revealing moment came outside the formal summit proceedings. Pezeshkian’s meeting with UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan brought two regional actors into direct conversation at a time when their interests differ and have been affected by the conflict. Also Read: India condemns attack on merchant vessel off Oman coast; 13 Indian crew rescued, one missing The meeting was the highest-level engagement between Tehran and Abu Dhabi since the outbreak of the conflict. BRICS provided a diplomatic platform and cover for an engagement that was considerably more difficult amid the raging tensions. The summit fully demonstrated India’s balancing act. It became a platform where rivals could talk, while the grouping focused on a common diplomatic vocabulary. Pezeshkian’s visit was significant as it was his first trip to India as president and the first visit by an Iranian president to the country in more than eight years. India reiterated its position that disputes must be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy, while stressing the importance of protecting freedom of navigation, commercial shipping and seafarers. Also Read: ‘Want to reset ties with India, have engagement based on mutual interests,’ says Bangladesh minister Earlier BRICS meetings hosted by India had struggled to produce consensus on the Iran conflict, with Tehran seeking stronger criticism of US and Israeli actions while the UAE pushed for language reflecting concerns over Iranian attacks on Gulf targets. The final declaration avoided assigning blame to either side. It expressed serious concern over the deteriorating situation in West Asia and called for maximum restraint, dialogue, diplomacy, respect for sovereignty, protection of civilians and the safeguarding of maritime stability. The summit served as a test of the group’s cohesion and influence, with PM Narendra Modi advocating for global institutional reform and enhanced cooperation.

<p>It was a tough diplomatic test for Delhi, but the hosts overcame all the challenges and managed a carefully negotiated language on the West Asia conflict. Moreover, an unanticipated Iran-UAE engagement placed India at the centre of a wider regional diplomatic effort.</p>

Delhi’s balancing act: BRICS serves as a stage for West Asia diplomacy

<p>The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit condemned "unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures" as against international law, but never named the US. It seems like a deliberate move to avoid straining member nations' bilateral trade relationships, especially for India, which chaired the BRICS summit. This comes as India is negotiating a trade deal with the US and seeking competitive rates to those offered to Vietnam and Bangladesh.&nbsp;</p><p>The tariff-criticism language is vague, so Washington has no direct textual trigger to retaliate against India specifically, unlike Rio 2025, where Trump followed the joint statement almost immediately with an actual 50 per cent tariff on Brazil, tied explicitly to that summit's "anti-American policies" framing.</p><p>India formally ruled out the creation of a common BRICS currency. It instead advocated for settling bilateral trade in local currencies. Indian officials have repeatedly stressed India has "no plans to challenge the US dollar's global dominance". Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and the MEA emphasised that India's focus is purely transactional, not political. However, its active role in developing the BRICS Cross-Border Payment System to facilitate local currency routing still walks a precarious line with Washington. This is more likely to trigger Trump's reaction than the softened Iran or Gaza language, as Trump has previously also warned about tariffs tracking currency moves.</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neet-ug-computer-based-test-cbt-omr-sheets-nta-1789319006274"><strong>NEET-UG to move to computer-based test soon, NTA DG says ‘CBT is the future’</strong></a></p><p>Overall, the declaration appears unlikely to change anything; what can change is the optics. Modi was flanked by Xi and Putin, deepening a $100B Russia trade target and hosting Iran while holding Pezeshkian's hand, as its own $500B+ trade negotiation with Washington remains unresolved.&nbsp;</p><p>US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent launched “Economic Outcast” in late August to isolate the Iranian economy. The US has already moved past warnings and penalised four Indian entities directly in late August. Meanwhile, Modi has discussed with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian readiness to closely cooperate with Iran in multilateral organisations, including BRICS and SCO, and explicitly expressed New Delhi's resolve to "expand and diversify" bilateral trade channels with Iran. Though how much of this is mere rhetoric and how much is deliverable remains to be seen.</p><p>Trump has yet to directly make any comment on BRICS; he shrugged off the bilateral meeting between Iran and the UAE. But as past instances from Rio indicate, Trump reacts to these symbolic moves just like he does to substance.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The BRICS declaration condemned unilateral tariffs without naming the US as India balances trade negotiations with Washington and ties with Russia and Iran.

The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit condemned "unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures" as against international law, but never named the US. It seems like a deliberate move to avoid straining member nations' bilateral trade relationships, especially for India, which chaired the BRICS summit. This comes as India is negotiating a trade deal with the US and seeking competitive rates to those offered to Vietnam and Bangladesh. The tariff-criticism language is vague, so Washington has no direct textual trigger to retaliate against India specifically, unlike Rio 2025, where Trump followed the joint statement almost immediately with an actual 50 per cent tariff on Brazil, tied explicitly to that summit's "anti-American policies" framing. India formally ruled out the creation of a common BRICS currency. It instead advocated for settling bilateral trade in local currencies. Indian officials have repeatedly stressed India has "no plans to challenge the US dollar's global dominance". Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and the MEA emphasised that India's focus is purely transactional, not political. However, its active role in developing the BRICS Cross-Border Payment System to facilitate local currency routing still walks a precarious line with Washington. This is more likely to trigger Trump's reaction than the softened Iran or Gaza language, as Trump has previously also warned about tariffs tracking currency moves. Also Read: NEET-UG to move to computer-based test soon, NTA DG says ‘CBT is the future’ Overall, the declaration appears unlikely to change anything; what can change is the optics. Modi was flanked by Xi and Putin, deepening a $100B Russia trade target and hosting Iran while holding Pezeshkian's hand, as its own $500B+ trade negotiation with Washington remains unresolved. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent launched “Economic Outcast” in late August to isolate the Iranian economy. The US has already moved past warnings and penalised four Indian entities directly in late August. Meanwhile, Modi has discussed with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian readiness to closely cooperate with Iran in multilateral organisations, including BRICS and SCO, and explicitly expressed New Delhi's resolve to "expand and diversify" bilateral trade channels with Iran. Though how much of this is mere rhetoric and how much is deliverable remains to be seen. Trump has yet to directly make any comment on BRICS; he shrugged off the bilateral meeting between Iran and the UAE. But as past instances from Rio indicate, Trump reacts to these symbolic moves just like he does to substance.

<p>The BRICS declaration condemned unilateral tariffs without naming the US as India balances trade negotiations with Washington and ties with Russia and Iran.</p>

Did India risk its US trade deal despite softer stance at BRICS?

India’s BRICS Summit in New Delhi focused on diplomacy, Global South representation, conflicts, trade and technology, with the New Delhi Declaration adopted and China taking over the 2027 chairship.

<p>India’s BRICS Summit in New Delhi focused on diplomacy, Global South representation, conflicts, trade and technology, with the New Delhi Declaration adopted and China taking over the 2027 chairship.</p>

BRICS in pictures: Leaders, diplomacy and viral moments from Delhi summit

<p>Africa has heard the compliments before.</p><p>The continent of the future. The world's youngest continent. A mineral powerhouse. The next great consumer market. An indispensable voice of the Global South.</p><p>All true.</p><p>But recognition without influence is merely applause.</p><p>The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the BRICS Summit makes a powerful case for a more representative global order and greater participation by developing economies, particularly those from Africa, Asia and Latin America.</p><p>That is welcome.</p><p>But Africa should ask an uncomfortable question: where is its power in this emerging order?</p><p>Africa has 54 countries and more than 1.5 billion people, yet only South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia are full members of BRICS. Nigeria and Uganda are partner countries.</p><p>That is progress. It is not proportional power.</p><p>And simply stuffing BRICS with dozens more members is not necessarily the solution either.</p><p>Expansion without coordination risks creating another enormous international talking shop — impressive family photographs, lengthy declarations and very little ability to act.</p><p>Africa therefore needs something more important than seats: a strategy.</p><p>This is where the African Union should become central.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WIONAtBRICS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONAtBRICS</a> | 54 African countries. Only THREE are full BRICS members.<br><br>Africa doesn&#39;t need applause for its &quot;potential.&quot; It needs power proportional to it.<br><br>India deserves credit for opening the door. But Africa must decide how it walks through it.<a href="https://x.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> brings more on… <a href="https://t.co/xmwS1LAkgK">pic.twitter.com/xmwS1LAkgK</a></p>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2099168609893576871?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Instead of African countries approaching emerging blocs primarily through individual national interests, the continent needs greater coordination around what it wants from them: infrastructure financing, industrialisation, technology transfer, energy security, agricultural transformation, value addition and reform of global financial institutions.</p><p>Africa possesses many of the resources the emerging world wants. It should negotiate accordingly.</p><p>India deserves recognition here.</p><p>New Delhi has repeatedly pushed greater representation of the Global South, backed the African Union's elevation within the G20 and used its 2026 BRICS chairship to again place developing economies prominently on the agenda.</p><p>That matters.</p><p>India and Africa also have something important in common: neither wants the international system permanently dictated by institutions reflecting yesterday's balance of power.</p><p>But partnership cannot mean replacing dependence on one centre of global power with dependence on another.</p><p>Africa should neither become an appendage of the West nor a bargaining chip for the East.</p><p>It should become a pole of power itself.</p><p>That means BRICS should not simply ask how many more African countries it can accommodate.</p><p>Africa should ask what membership actually delivers.</p><p>More African flags around the BRICS table will mean little if African economies continue exporting raw minerals only to import the finished products; if infrastructure gaps persist; if Africans remain underrepresented where global financial and security decisions are made; and if the continent's enormous population translates into market size but not negotiating strength.</p><p>The New Delhi Declaration talks about giving the Global South a greater voice.</p><p>Good.</p><p>Now Africa must use it.</p><p>Because the continent does not need another invitation to somebody else's table.</p><p>It needs the leverage to help decide what is served.</p>

New Delhi has repeatedly pushed greater representation of the Global South, backed the African Union's elevation within the G20 and used its 2026 BRICS chairship to again place developing economies prominently on the agenda.

Africa has heard the compliments before. The continent of the future. The world's youngest continent. A mineral powerhouse. The next great consumer market. An indispensable voice of the Global South. All true. But recognition without influence is merely applause. The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the BRICS Summit makes a powerful case for a more representative global order and greater participation by developing economies, particularly those from Africa, Asia and Latin America. That is welcome. But Africa should ask an uncomfortable question: where is its power in this emerging order? Africa has 54 countries and more than 1.5 billion people, yet only South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia are full members of BRICS. Nigeria and Uganda are partner countries. That is progress. It is not proportional power. And simply stuffing BRICS with dozens more members is not necessarily the solution either. Expansion without coordination risks creating another enormous international talking shop — impressive family photographs, lengthy declarations and very little ability to act. Africa therefore needs something more important than seats: a strategy. This is where the African Union should become central.

<p>New Delhi has repeatedly pushed greater representation of the Global South, backed the African Union's elevation within the G20 and used its 2026 BRICS chairship to again place developing economies prominently on the agenda.</p>

The Verdict | Africa is too big to remain a guest at the BRICS table

<p>Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday (Sep 13) said that Tehran and Abu Dhabi want to “turn the page” after relations between Iran and the UAE deteriorated amid the war in the Middle East. His remarks come a day after he held bilateral talks with Crown Prince Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Saturday (Sep 12). Their meeting raised the possibility of India acting as a bridge between the two Gulf nations amid conflict.</p><p>“For the first time since the war and the incidents that occurred in the Persian Gulf, we had a constructive exchange with the crown prince of Abu Dhabi,” Pezeshkian said in New Delhi on Sunday (Sep 13).&nbsp;</p><p>“It was agreed that we would turn the page, look to the future and build it together,” he added.</p><h2><strong>Pezeshkian, UAE Crown Prince bilateral meet</strong></h2><p>In a statement, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said that the Crown Prince and the Iranian president held talks over regional and international issues. The two leaders also discussed the importance of supporting de-escalation efforts, reducing tensions and achieving stability in the region.</p><p>“Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, discusses with the Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, a number of regional and international issues, and the importance of supporting de-escalation efforts, reducing tensions, and achieving stability in the region, as well as enhancing opportunities for peace and development for its peoples, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in India,” the statement read.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, met Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi and discussed regional and international issues, de-escalation, stability, and efforts to advance regional peace and development. <a href="https://t.co/vEWoB6u1pt">pic.twitter.com/vEWoB6u1pt</a></p>&mdash; مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) <a href="https://x.com/ADMediaOffice/status/2098745662561309069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Can India bridge the gap?</strong></h2><p>On Friday (Sep 11), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Pezeshkian, during which PM Modi stated India’s firm position for “dialogue and diplomacy” to reach a solution. He also raised New Delhi’s concerns over the protection of Indian seafarers and commercial vessels. He stressed that freedom of navigation and commerce should not be disrupted due to ongoing war.</p><p>According to the MEA, PM Modi and Pezeshkian “exchanged views on recent developments in West Asia. Prime Minister reiterated India’s consistent position that all issues must be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy. He also underscored the need for continued efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region, safeguarding freedom of navigation and commerce, and the safety and well-being of seafarers.”</p>

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran and Abu Dhabi agreed to “turn the page” and build a future together after BRICS talks in New Delhi.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday (Sep 13) said that Tehran and Abu Dhabi want to “turn the page” after relations between Iran and the UAE deteriorated amid the war in the Middle East. His remarks come a day after he held bilateral talks with Crown Prince Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Saturday (Sep 12). Their meeting raised the possibility of India acting as a bridge between the two Gulf nations amid conflict. “For the first time since the war and the incidents that occurred in the Persian Gulf, we had a constructive exchange with the crown prince of Abu Dhabi,” Pezeshkian said in New Delhi on Sunday (Sep 13). “It was agreed that we would turn the page, look to the future and build it together,” he added. Pezeshkian, UAE Crown Prince bilateral meet In a statement, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said that the Crown Prince and the Iranian president held talks over regional and international issues. The two leaders also discussed the importance of supporting de-escalation efforts, reducing tensions and achieving stability in the region. “Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, discusses with the Iranian President, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, a number of regional and international issues, and the importance of supporting de-escalation efforts, reducing tensions, and achieving stability in the region, as well as enhancing opportunities for peace and development for its peoples, on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in India,” the statement read.

<p>Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran and Abu Dhabi agreed to “turn the page” and build a future together after BRICS talks in New Delhi.</p>

Iran-UAE thaw after BRICS talks in India? Pezeshkian says Tehran and Abu Dhabi to ‘turn the page’

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a series of bilateral meetings with world leaders on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. In the last three days, PM Modi held 15 sit-down bilateral meetings with heads of state and government, besides several pull-aside meetings with world leaders and international institutions. On day two, the Indian prime minister held talks with leaders from South Africa, Egypt, Uganda, Indonesia, Philippines, Burundi, Kazakhstan and Nigeria. Earlier on Friday (Sep 11) and Saturday (Sep 12), PM Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.</p><h2><strong>PM Modi meets South Africa’s Ramaphosa</strong></h2><p>PM Modi met South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to review the “full breadth” of the India-South Africa Strategic Partnership. Discussions covered the India-SACU trade agreement, mining and critical minerals, infrastructure, food security, digital public infrastructure, emerging technologies and skilling.</p><p>“Our partnership is rooted in history and firmly focused on the future,” PM Modi said, adding that India would work with South Africa on Africa’s progress, Global South priorities and a more balanced global order.</p><p>The group was initially called BRIC with founding members India, China, Russia, and Brazil, but was later renamed to BRICS after South Africa joined the bloc in 2010. The group now has 11 full member countries and 10 official partner nations.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Delighted to meet President Cyril Ramaphosa on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Delhi. <br><br>We reviewed the full breadth of the India-South Africa Strategic Partnership including:<br><br>The India-SACU trade agreement. <br><br>Mining and critical minerals. <br><br>Infrastructure. <br><br>Food security.… <a href="https://t.co/8NcemThBdq">pic.twitter.com/8NcemThBdq</a></p>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://x.com/narendramodi/status/2099112559182053782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>PM Modi holds series of bilaterals on Day 2</strong></h2><p>PM Modi also met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, describing the interaction as a “lovely” catch-up. The two leaders discussed strengthening the India-Indonesia partnership across a range of sectors.</p><p>With Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, PM Modi discussed regional issues and the growing India-Egypt friendship.</p><p>Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was another key interlocutor. PM Modi said the two leaders reviewed the momentum in their Strategic Partnership, with economic linkages, technology, trade, space, innovation and creative industries among the focus areas. They also discussed strengthening India-ASEAN engagement.</p><p>PM Modi separately met Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo, recalling his 2018 visit to Uganda and the Kampala Principles guiding India’s engagement with Africa. Healthcare, agriculture, digital technologies and capacity building featured in their discussions.</p><p>PM Modi met Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye and congratulated him on Burundi assuming the African Union chair. The two sides discussed development cooperation, capacity building, youth skilling, agriculture and clean energy.</p><p>Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, on his first India visit as president, held talks with PM Modi on giving fresh momentum to the strategic partnership, including trade, investment, energy, technology and connectivity.</p><p>PM Modi also met Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima. Their discussions covered trade, power, clean energy, fertilisers, defence, health, technology and capacity building.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

PM Modi held eight bilaterals with leaders from South Africa, Egypt, Indonesia, Philippines, Uganda, Burundi, Kazakhstan and Nigeria on Day 2 of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a series of bilateral meetings with world leaders on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. In the last three days, PM Modi held 15 sit-down bilateral meetings with heads of state and government, besides several pull-aside meetings with world leaders and international institutions. On day two, the Indian prime minister held talks with leaders from South Africa, Egypt, Uganda, Indonesia, Philippines, Burundi, Kazakhstan and Nigeria. Earlier on Friday (Sep 11) and Saturday (Sep 12), PM Modi held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. PM Modi meets South Africa’s Ramaphosa PM Modi met South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to review the “full breadth” of the India-South Africa Strategic Partnership. Discussions covered the India-SACU trade agreement, mining and critical minerals, infrastructure, food security, digital public infrastructure, emerging technologies and skilling. “Our partnership is rooted in history and firmly focused on the future,” PM Modi said, adding that India would work with South Africa on Africa’s progress, Global South priorities and a more balanced global order. The group was initially called BRIC with founding members India, China, Russia, and Brazil, but was later renamed to BRICS after South Africa joined the bloc in 2010. The group now has 11 full member countries and 10 official partner nations.

<p>PM Modi held eight bilaterals with leaders from South Africa, Egypt, Indonesia, Philippines, Uganda, Burundi, Kazakhstan and Nigeria on Day 2 of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.</p>

BRICS Summit Day 2: PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Ramaphosa, other leaders

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on Sunday at Bharat Mandapam on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p><p>Jaishankar later shared that they exchanged perspectives on regional and global developments and discussed ways to advance bilateral cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;</p><p>“Pleased to meet FM Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud @FaisalbinFarhan on the sidelines of #BRICSIndia2026. Exchanged perspectives on regional &amp; global developments, as well as on advancing our bilateral cooperation,” EAM Jaishankar posted on X.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The meeting comes as India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit under its chairship theme of “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pleased to meet FM Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud <a href="https://x.com/FaisalbinFarhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FaisalbinFarhan</a> on the sidelines of <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/BRICSIndia2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRICSIndia2026</a>.<br><br>Exchanged perspectives on regional &amp; global developments, as well as on advancing our bilateral cooperation. <br><br>🇮🇳 🇸🇦 <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/BRICS2026?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRICS2026</a> <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/IndiaBRICSChairship?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaBRICSChairship</a> <a href="https://t.co/3FSfWiyBTp">pic.twitter.com/3FSfWiyBTp</a></p>&mdash; Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/2099083776626397493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p> </p><p> </p><p>Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived in the national capital to attend the BRICS Summit 2026 on behalf of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudi Foreign Minister was the last leader to arrive and attended the outreach summit on Sunday. </p><p> </p><p>Saudi Arabia is participating in the summit as an invited country. </p><p> </p><p>Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud arrived after the Abu Dhabi crown prince had departed New Delhi. </p><p> </p><p>Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral meetings with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Uganda Vice President Jessica Alupo and Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr on the sidelines of the summit. </p><p>Addressing the open session of the BRICS Summit on Sunday, PM Modi said the world now expects “concrete results” from the grouping as it enters its third decade. </p><p>“BRICS is poised to enter its third decade. The world now expects concrete results from us, not just ideas and commitments. I am confident that through our collective efforts, we will certainly live up to these expectations,” PM Modi said, as he extended his best wishes to China, which will host the next BRICS Summit in 2027.</p><p>PM Modi commended all leaders and their teams for making the New Delhi Summit a success. </p><p>BRICS leaders on Sunday held a session on “Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability: Shaping the Future for Inclusive Global Growth”. </p><p>PM Modi said the trust of Global South nations in BRICS had grown and highlighted initiatives related to disaster management, MSME cooperation and the environment. </p><p>Earlier on Thursday, Indian Ambassador Vipul met Saudi Arabia’s Assistant Minister of Defence, Khaled bin Hussain Al Biyari. They discussed India–Saudi Arabia defence cooperation and exchanged views on regional developments, reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. </p><p>Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh was also on an official visit to Saudi Arabia from September 5-8.</p>

Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived in the national capital to attend the BRICS Summit 2026 on behalf of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudi Foreign Minister was the last leader to arrive and attended the outreach summit on Sunday. 

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud on Sunday at Bharat Mandapam on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Jaishankar later shared that they exchanged perspectives on regional and global developments and discussed ways to advance bilateral cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia. “Pleased to meet FM Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud @FaisalbinFarhan on the sidelines of #BRICSIndia2026. Exchanged perspectives on regional & global developments, as well as on advancing our bilateral cooperation,” EAM Jaishankar posted on X. The meeting comes as India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit under its chairship theme of “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”.

<p>Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived in the national capital to attend the BRICS Summit 2026 on behalf of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. The Saudi Foreign Minister was the last leader to arrive and attended the outreach summit on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

EAM Jaishankar meets Saudi Foreign Minister for bilateral, both discuss ways to advance cooperation

<p>The BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi will be remembered as the germinating ground for future growth of the grouping. Several political and economic aspects could get a fillip in the coming years, from local-currency use and payment interoperability to institutional deepening. Progress is slow, but real. The only thing holding BRICS back from achieving its full potential is the need for consensus-based decision-making in a diverse grouping. Here is how things are likely to shape up.</p><h2>Partner-country expansion</h2><p>The partner-country tier created at the 2024 Kazan Summit was a response to demand from more than 30 interested nations. There are now 11 full members: the original five — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — joined by Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia. Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam are the 10 partner countries, which can attend summits and foreign ministers’ meetings, endorse declarations and join select working groups.&nbsp;</p><p>The partner model is an influence multiplier. Countries like Nigeria and Thailand are likely to become full members under criteria emphasising geographic balance, good relations with all members, UN membership, support for multilateral reforms. The stress is on criteria-driven expansion. When new nations join either as full members or partners, BRICS’ reach will grow further into Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Africa and Latin America. This will boost the collective GDP, which is already around 40 per cent of the world in terms of purchasing power parity, as well as the grouping’s population, energy and minerals weight, and intra-group trade leverage.</p><p>But expansion could come with slow decision-making and internal tensions, particularly given the shifting China-India dynamics. Nevertheless, further expansion will give BRICS more leverage as a broader Global South platform.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/did-brics-summit-2026-prove-that-an-11-member-bloc-with-india-and-china-in-it-can-still-agree-on-key-issues-1789292891454">Did BRICS Summit 2026 prove that an 11-member bloc with India and China in it can still agree on key issues?</a></p><h2>Dedollarisation: The reality check</h2><p>While dedollarisation was a buzzword for some time, the stress is on mitigation and diversification, not a coordinated assault to dethrone the fiat currency of the world. The 2025 Rio de Janeiro and 2026 New Delhi summits stressed more practical local-currency trade mechanisms while respecting national priorities.</p><p>Intra-BRICS local-currency settlement has risen significantly. Such bilateral trade accounts for nearly 90 per cent in case of some member states. Bilateral swaps between countries such as China and Brazil are growing. Gold accumulation by BRICS members' central banks, along with a reduced dollar share in some payments, is contributing to these alternative arrangements.</p><p>Dollar dominance in global reserves is not easy to remove. The high levels of local-currency bilateral trade involve countries sanctioned by the US or the West, such as Russia and Iran, while China also faces growing trade and technology restrictions.&nbsp;</p><p>There are issues of trust, convertibility and liquidity that could prevent full dedollarisation. In the next few years, growth in local-currency trade and financing will continue. Non-dollar energy and commodity deals could become more frequent.</p><p>A multipolar payments landscape under the BRICS Payments mechanism is the more likely outcome, where the dollar coexists with the renminbi, rupee, rouble and other local currencies. The countries are looking to reduce vulnerability to sanctions and volatility rather than eliminate dollar use.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-new-delhi-declaration-adopted-with-full-consensus-big-diplomatic-win-for-india-1789283084511/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-new-delhi-declaration-adopted-with-full-consensus-big-diplomatic-win-for-india-1789283084511/embed</a></p><h2>Common currency appears to be stalled due to trust deficit</h2><p>A common BRICS currency, while actively discussed in the media, is not a priority. There are near-term political and economic hurdles, mainly the trust deficit among BRICS members such as India and China. Ahead of the summit, India said there was no proposal for a BRICS currency as of now. In the past, both Brazil and Russia had proposed common reference units, mainly involving gold and currency baskets. But these remain at the conceptual or pilot stage.</p><p>The problem is the diversity of the BRICS economies. They have different inflation rates, monetary regimes, capital controls, convertibility and fiscal policies. India prefers complementarity with existing systems rather than an outright euro-like currency. Given this, creating a credible currency will need institutional integration far beyond mere consensus. Therefore, the focus is likely to continue on national currencies and interoperability.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-pm-modi-praises-india-s-chairmanship-sends-critical-minerals-and-supply-chain-message-on-day-2-china-xi-jinping-present-1789277773320">BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi's 'critical minerals' and 'supply chain' message on Day 2 in front of China's Xi</a></p><h2>Trade and payment mechanisms: An area of promise</h2><p>Trade and payment mechanisms are the most active issues when it comes to economic cooperation. The member states are keen to reduce costs, risks and intermediary dependence through local-currency settlements and linking existing rails rather than building a single rival to the SWIFT payment system. There is support for bilateral settlement systems, swaps and clearing arrangements. The BRICS Payment Task Force (BPTF) continues work on cross-border solutions that are fast, low-cost, inclusive, efficient, transparent and secure.</p><p>The focus will continue to be on creating linkages between fast digital payment systems such as India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Brazil’s Pix, as well as exploring central bank digital currency (CBDC) interoperability. Pilot projects are ongoing for BRICS Pay, a decentralised messaging and gateway system linking national payment systems. BRICS Bridge, a multi-CBDC settlement system inspired by mBridge, as well as BRICS Clear, a settlement and depositary infrastructure, are ideas being explored.</p><h2>New Development Bank: Emerging as BRICS core</h2><p>From an idea whose time has come, the New Development Bank (NDB) is emerging as a core BRICS institution. By the middle of 2026, NDB’s cumulative approvals had neared $44 billion.</p><p>Projects span infrastructure and sustainability. Local-currency financing had risen to around 29 per cent of the total portfolio by the end of 2025.</p><p>More than a political bloc, the BRICS story is one of financial evolution supporting a more multipolar order through practical tools that enhance member autonomy and South-South connectivity. The payment systems and NDB are among the institutions that will deliver tangible value to the grouping, much more than a common currency and rapid dedollarisation.&nbsp;</p><p>The future will depend on the external environment, particularly US policies, and cohesion among BRICS members.</p><p>For BRICS, it is an alternative world order, not a New World Order.</p>

BRICS is moving towards partner-country expansion, local-currency trade, interoperable payment systems and stronger NDB financing. There is a sense to prioritise practical financial tools over a common currency or rapid dedollarisation.

The BRICS Summit 2026 in New Delhi will be remembered as the germinating ground for future growth of the grouping. Several political and economic aspects could get a fillip in the coming years, from local-currency use and payment interoperability to institutional deepening. Progress is slow, but real. The only thing holding BRICS back from achieving its full potential is the need for consensus-based decision-making in a diverse grouping. Here is how things are likely to shape up. Partner-country expansion The partner-country tier created at the 2024 Kazan Summit was a response to demand from more than 30 interested nations. There are now 11 full members: the original five — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa — joined by Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia. Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan and Vietnam are the 10 partner countries, which can attend summits and foreign ministers’ meetings, endorse declarations and join select working groups. The partner model is an influence multiplier. Countries like Nigeria and Thailand are likely to become full members under criteria emphasising geographic balance, good relations with all members, UN membership, support for multilateral reforms. The stress is on criteria-driven expansion. When new nations join either as full members or partners, BRICS’ reach will grow further into Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Africa and Latin America. This will boost the collective GDP, which is already around 40 per cent of the world in terms of purchasing power parity, as well as the grouping’s population, energy and minerals weight, and intra-group trade leverage. But expansion could come with slow decision-making and internal tensions, particularly given the shifting China-India dynamics. Nevertheless, further expansion will give BRICS more leverage as a broader Global South platform. Also read: Did BRICS Summit 2026 prove that an 11-member bloc with India and China in it can still agree on key issues? Dedollarisation: The reality check While dedollarisation was a buzzword for some time, the stress is on mitigation and diversification, not a coordinated assault to dethrone the fiat currency of the world. The 2025 Rio de Janeiro and 2026 New Delhi summits stressed more practical local-currency trade mechanisms while respecting national priorities. Intra-BRICS local-currency settlement has risen significantly. Such bilateral trade accounts for nearly 90 per cent in case of some member states. Bilateral swaps between countries such as China and Brazil are growing. Gold accumulation by BRICS members' central banks, along with a reduced dollar share in some payments, is contributing to these alternative arrangements. Dollar dominance in global reserves is not easy to remove. The high levels of local-currency bilateral trade involve countries sanctioned by the US or the West, such as Russia and Iran, while China also faces growing trade and technology restrictions. There are issues of trust, convertibility and liquidity that could prevent full dedollarisation. In the next few years, growth in local-currency trade and financing will continue. Non-dollar energy and commodity deals could become more frequent. A multipolar payments landscape under the BRICS Payments mechanism is the more likely outcome, where the dollar coexists with the renminbi, rupee, rouble and other local currencies. The countries are looking to reduce vulnerability to sanctions and volatility rather than eliminate dollar use. https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-new-delhi-declaration-adopted-with-full-consensus-big-diplomatic-win-for-india-1789283084511/embed Common currency appears to be stalled due to trust deficit A common BRICS currency, while actively discussed in the media, is not a priority. There are near-term political and economic hurdles, mainly the trust deficit among BRICS members such as India and China. Ahead of the summit, India said there was no proposal for a BRICS currency as of now. In the past, both Brazil and Russia had proposed common reference units, mainly involving gold and currency baskets. But these remain at the conceptual or pilot stage. The problem is the diversity of the BRICS economies. They have different inflation rates, monetary regimes, capital controls, convertibility and fiscal policies. India prefers complementarity with existing systems rather than an outright euro-like currency. Given this, creating a credible currency will need institutional integration far beyond mere consensus. Therefore, the focus is likely to continue on national currencies and interoperability. Also read: BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi's 'critical minerals' and 'supply chain' message on Day 2 in front of China's Xi Trade and payment mechanisms: An area of promise Trade and payment mechanisms are the most active issues when it comes to economic cooperation. The member states are keen to reduce costs, risks and intermediary dependence through local-currency settlements and linking existing rails rather than building a single rival to the SWIFT payment system. There is support for bilateral settlement systems, swaps and clearing arrangements. The BRICS Payment Task Force (BPTF) continues work on cross-border solutions that are fast, low-cost, inclusive, efficient, transparent and secure. The focus will continue to be on creating linkages between fast digital payment systems such as India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Brazil’s Pix, as well as exploring central bank digital currency (CBDC) interoperability. Pilot projects are ongoing for BRICS Pay, a decentralised messaging and gateway system linking national payment systems. BRICS Bridge, a multi-CBDC settlement system inspired by mBridge, as well as BRICS Clear, a settlement and depositary infrastructure, are ideas being explored. New Development Bank: Emerging as BRICS core From an idea whose time has come, the New Development Bank (NDB) is emerging as a core BRICS institution. By the middle of 2026, NDB’s cumulative approvals had neared $44 billion. Projects span infrastructure and sustainability. Local-currency financing had risen to around 29 per cent of the total portfolio by the end of 2025. More than a political bloc, the BRICS story is one of financial evolution supporting a more multipolar order through practical tools that enhance member autonomy and South-South connectivity. The payment systems and NDB are among the institutions that will deliver tangible value to the grouping, much more than a common currency and rapid dedollarisation. The future will depend on the external environment, particularly US policies, and cohesion among BRICS members. For BRICS, it is an alternative world order, not a New World Order.

<p>BRICS is moving towards partner-country expansion, local-currency trade, interoperable payment systems and stronger NDB financing. There is a sense to prioritise practical financial tools over a common currency or rapid dedollarisation.</p>

BRICS of the future: From partner country expansion to trade mechanisms - what could change, what might not

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended his best wishes to China as Beijing prepares to take over the BRICS chairship and host the grouping’s next summit in 2027. His message came as BRICS enters its third decade, with Modi stressing that the grouping must now deliver “concrete results” rather than remain limited to ideas and commitments.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Addressing the open session on the second day of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Modi said the world would increasingly judge the grouping by the outcomes it delivers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“BRICS is poised to enter its third decade. The world now expects concrete results from us, not just ideas and commitments. I am confident that through our collective efforts, we will certainly live up to these expectations,” Modi said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He also commended the participating leaders and their teams for making the New Delhi Summit a success and wished China well as the next host.</p><h3>West Asia war puts supply chains and Hormuz on agenda</h3><p>China will take charge of an expanded BRICS bloc at a time when geopolitical conflicts are increasingly affecting trade, energy flows and maritime security.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The New Delhi Declaration reflected these concerns, with BRICS leaders expressing deep concern over escalating violence in West Asia and calling for maximum restraint from all parties to prevent further widening of the conflict.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The declaration also raised concerns over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities safeguarded by the International Atomic Energy Agency.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For BRICS, the conflict has implications beyond West Asia. The declaration stressed the need to protect global supply chains, strengthen maritime security and ensure uninterrupted energy flows through strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Disruptions along key shipping routes can affect energy prices, trade flows and the movement of goods across economies. The conflict has also increased concerns over the safety of seafarers operating around strategically important maritime routes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-calls-for-time-bound-action-on-new-delhi-declaration-extends-best-wishes-to-china-for-brics-chairship-1789294374341"><strong>PM Modi calls for time-bound action on New Delhi Declaration, extends best wishes to China for BRICS chairship</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>China takes charge of bloc dominated by its economic weight</h3><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The China presidency is significant because Beijing has a dominant economic position within the expanded BRICS grouping.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>China accounts for more than half of the bloc’s nominal GDP. With a nominal GDP of around $19.6 trillion, its economy is several times larger than India’s, the second-largest BRICS economy. On a purchasing power parity basis, China also accounts for a substantial share of the grouping’s total output.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This economic weight gives Beijing considerable influence, but it also places greater responsibility on China to balance the interests of members with different economic priorities and strategic positions.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Russia-Ukraine war and the West Asia conflict could prove particularly challenging. Russia remains directly involved in the Ukraine conflict, while Iran is at the centre of the West Asia crisis. The conflict has also affected other BRICS members, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, through higher energy prices, trade disruptions and maritime security concerns.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>China will therefore have to maintain consensus within a bloc whose members have different positions on major geopolitical conflicts.</p><h3>Payments, local currencies gain momentum</h3><p>The financial agenda at the New Delhi Summit also offers China an opportunity to push practical economic cooperation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While the idea of reducing dependence on the US dollar and a possible common BRICS currency has attracted attention, the New Delhi Declaration did not endorse a common currency. Instead, members backed greater use of national currencies in trade and investment and efforts to improve the interoperability of payment systems.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The BRICS Payment Task Force has been examining ways to make cross-border payments faster, cheaper, more accessible, transparent and secure. The declaration also noted work on interoperable payment and messaging channels.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The approach could prove more achievable than creating a single BRICS currency. Greater use of national currencies and better-connected payment systems could reduce transaction costs and provide members with alternatives for cross-border trade.</p><h3>BRICS members carry common concerns into G20</h3><p>BRICS priorities are also likely to overlap with discussions at the G20, particularly on trade, global governance and the concerns of developing economies.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Six of the 11 BRICS members are individual G20 members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and Indonesia. This gives the bloc significant representation in the wider global economic forum.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The weaponisation of trade, ongoing wars, supply-chain disruptions and greater representation for the Global South in institutions such as the United Nations, UN Security Council and World Trade Organization are likely to remain key issues.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>As China begins its BRICS presidency, Beijing will therefore face the challenge of converting the grouping’s growing economic and political weight into coordinated action.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The New Delhi Summit has already identified several practical areas, including local-currency trade, cross-border payments, supply-chain resilience and maritime security.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The expectation set by Modi is clear: BRICS must now move from commitments to “concrete results”.</p>

As China takes over the BRICS chairship, the grouping faces the challenge of turning its growing economic weight into practical cooperation on conflicts, supply chains, maritime security and cross-border payments while expanding the use of local currencies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended his best wishes to China as Beijing prepares to take over the BRICS chairship and host the grouping’s next summit in 2027. His message came as BRICS enters its third decade, with Modi stressing that the grouping must now deliver “concrete results” rather than remain limited to ideas and commitments. Addressing the open session on the second day of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Modi said the world would increasingly judge the grouping by the outcomes it delivers. “BRICS is poised to enter its third decade. The world now expects concrete results from us, not just ideas and commitments. I am confident that through our collective efforts, we will certainly live up to these expectations,” Modi said. He also commended the participating leaders and their teams for making the New Delhi Summit a success and wished China well as the next host. West Asia war puts supply chains and Hormuz on agenda China will take charge of an expanded BRICS bloc at a time when geopolitical conflicts are increasingly affecting trade, energy flows and maritime security. The New Delhi Declaration reflected these concerns, with BRICS leaders expressing deep concern over escalating violence in West Asia and calling for maximum restraint from all parties to prevent further widening of the conflict. The declaration also raised concerns over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities safeguarded by the International Atomic Energy Agency. For BRICS, the conflict has implications beyond West Asia. The declaration stressed the need to protect global supply chains, strengthen maritime security and ensure uninterrupted energy flows through strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz. Disruptions along key shipping routes can affect energy prices, trade flows and the movement of goods across economies. The conflict has also increased concerns over the safety of seafarers operating around strategically important maritime routes. Also Read: PM Modi calls for time-bound action on New Delhi Declaration, extends best wishes to China for BRICS chairship China takes charge of bloc dominated by its economic weight The China presidency is significant because Beijing has a dominant economic position within the expanded BRICS grouping. China accounts for more than half of the bloc’s nominal GDP. With a nominal GDP of around $19.6 trillion, its economy is several times larger than India’s, the second-largest BRICS economy. On a purchasing power parity basis, China also accounts for a substantial share of the grouping’s total output. This economic weight gives Beijing considerable influence, but it also places greater responsibility on China to balance the interests of members with different economic priorities and strategic positions. The Russia-Ukraine war and the West Asia conflict could prove particularly challenging. Russia remains directly involved in the Ukraine conflict, while Iran is at the centre of the West Asia crisis. The conflict has also affected other BRICS members, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, through higher energy prices, trade disruptions and maritime security concerns. China will therefore have to maintain consensus within a bloc whose members have different positions on major geopolitical conflicts. Payments, local currencies gain momentum The financial agenda at the New Delhi Summit also offers China an opportunity to push practical economic cooperation. While the idea of reducing dependence on the US dollar and a possible common BRICS currency has attracted attention, the New Delhi Declaration did not endorse a common currency. Instead, members backed greater use of national currencies in trade and investment and efforts to improve the interoperability of payment systems. The BRICS Payment Task Force has been examining ways to make cross-border payments faster, cheaper, more accessible, transparent and secure. The declaration also noted work on interoperable payment and messaging channels. The approach could prove more achievable than creating a single BRICS currency. Greater use of national currencies and better-connected payment systems could reduce transaction costs and provide members with alternatives for cross-border trade. BRICS members carry common concerns into G20 BRICS priorities are also likely to overlap with discussions at the G20, particularly on trade, global governance and the concerns of developing economies. Six of the 11 BRICS members are individual G20 members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and Indonesia. This gives the bloc significant representation in the wider global economic forum. The weaponisation of trade, ongoing wars, supply-chain disruptions and greater representation for the Global South in institutions such as the United Nations, UN Security Council and World Trade Organization are likely to remain key issues. As China begins its BRICS presidency, Beijing will therefore face the challenge of converting the grouping’s growing economic and political weight into coordinated action. The New Delhi Summit has already identified several practical areas, including local-currency trade, cross-border payments, supply-chain resilience and maritime security. The expectation set by Modi is clear: BRICS must now move from commitments to “concrete results”.

<p>As China takes over the BRICS chairship, the grouping faces the challenge of turning its growing economic weight into practical cooperation on conflicts, supply chains, maritime security and cross-border payments while expanding the use of local currencies.</p>

China takes BRICS chair: Wars, trade disruptions and local-currency trade in focus

<p>Congress MP Rahul Gandhi lashed out at the Narendra Modi-led central government after the vegetarian menu was served at the BRICS Summit gala dinner in New Delhi on Saturday (September 12), maintaining that “80 per cent of Indians are non-vegetarian”. Rahul Gandhi's statement has triggered a political row, prompting Kiren Rijiju to hit back at the Congress for “making politics even on the food menu”.</p><p><br>“For the record: 80% of Indians are non-vegetarian. Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister's chole bhature,” Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X on Sunday, along with sharing a picture of the popular North Indian dish.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">For the record: 80% of Indians are non-vegetarian.<br><br>Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister&#39;s chole bhature. <a href="https://t.co/8f6ziKjLan">pic.twitter.com/8f6ziKjLan</a></p>&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2099050899360641454?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Voicing support for Rahul Gandhi, Pawan Khera argued that India’s culinary diversity included some of the finest non-vegetarian dishes in the world and asked why the government opted not to feature them. “The BJP’s habit of imposing its dietary preferences on fellow Indians is already deeply problematic. Now, they have taken it a step further by imposing their own choices on dignitaries from across the world,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-and-china-s-xi-offered-to-help-resolve-russia-ukraine-war-kremlin-1789286638039">PM Modi and China's Xi offered to help resolve Russia-Ukraine war: Kremlin</a></p><h3>Kiren Rijiju hits out at Congress</h3><p>Without naming anyone specifically, Kiren Rijiju aimed at the Congress, accusing the party of turning the food served to BRICS leaders into a political controversy. “I can't believe that the Congress party is making politics even on the food menu served to the leaders of BRICS nations. Our guests relished Indian vegetarian cuisine, which is rich in flavour and nutritional variety with diverse regional traditions,” Rijiju said.</p><p><br>Rahul's comments followed a day after a lavish vegetarian menu was presented at a gala dinner held during the BRICS Summit, showcasing dishes representing various regional cuisines from across the country.</p><h3>What was served at the gala dinner?</h3><p>The meal opened with starters such as 'Khandvi mille', a steamed gram-flour roll tempered with mustard seeds, coconut and curry leaves, alongside 'Khumb galouti', pan-grilled mushroom kebabs paired with mint pearls. For the main course, guests were served 'Paneer Lababdar', 'Gucchi Marmik', made using Himalayan morel mushrooms and tender asparagus, and 'Carrot Bean Poriyal'. Rounding out the spread were 'Thakkali Belle Saaru', a light lentil broth, along with millet pulao, beetroot raita and a variety of Indian breads.</p><p><br>To finish, VVIP guests were treated to 'Old Delhi fruit cream with jalebi' and 'Shahtoot phirni' for dessert. The gala dinner was complemented by a cultural performance featuring an ensemble of over 100 artistes, drawn primarily from India as well as other BRICS member nations.</p>

Voicing support for Rahul Gandhi, Pawan Khera argued that India’s culinary diversity included some of the finest non-vegetarian dishes in the world and asked why the government opted not to feature them.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi lashed out at the Narendra Modi-led central government after the vegetarian menu was served at the BRICS Summit gala dinner in New Delhi on Saturday (September 12), maintaining that “80 per cent of Indians are non-vegetarian”. Rahul Gandhi's statement has triggered a political row, prompting Kiren Rijiju to hit back at the Congress for “making politics even on the food menu”. “For the record: 80% of Indians are non-vegetarian. Indian non-vegetarian food is delicious. As are my sister's chole bhature,” Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X on Sunday, along with sharing a picture of the popular North Indian dish.

<p>Voicing support for Rahul Gandhi, Pawan Khera argued that India’s culinary diversity included some of the finest non-vegetarian dishes in the world and asked why the government opted not to feature them.</p>

'80% of Indians are non-vegetarian': Rahul Gandhi slams BRICS Summit dinner menu, BJP calls it 'politics on food menu'

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Sep 13) called for a stronger role for the Global South in shaping international rules at the 10th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, where world leaders have gathered to discuss several global issues and development. Addressing Session II of the high-stakes summit, Xi said international law must apply equally to all countries and rejected the idea that powerful nations can dictate global affairs. He also unveiled five initiatives aimed at deepening cooperation within the grouping. Next year, China will hold the BRICS presidency.</p><h2><strong>‘Might makes right does not hold’</strong></h2><p>“A world without rules is like a crossroads without traffic lights, where chaos and disorder are all but guaranteed,” Xi said, according to the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry. “Fairness and justice are a universal aspiration, and international rules must be written by all countries.”</p><p>“The logic of ‘might makes right’ does not hold and should have been discarded long ago,” Xi added, urging Global South countries to jointly defend sovereign equality, noninterference and the peaceful settlement of disputes.</p><p>His remarks came against the backdrop of the New Delhi Declaration, in which BRICS expressed concern over global polarisation, distrust and ongoing conflicts.</p><p>The grouping voiced “deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in West Asia” and called for “maximum restraint, as well as avoiding actions that could further aggravate the situation.”</p><p>Earlier on Saturday (Sep 12), Xi expressed concerns over the war in the Middle East, saying that the conflict does not serve the interests of the world.</p><p>“As the situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region continues to evolve, the war there has caused serious losses to people across the region,” Xi was quoted as saying by state news agency Xinhua. It “does not serve the common interests of the international community”, he added.</p><h2><strong>Xi’s five initiatives</strong></h2><p><strong>Open-source and inclusive AI:</strong> China proposed establishing a BRICS AI open-source community, with cooperation on large language models, specialised seminars and training courses to create an open AI ecosystem.</p><p><strong>Trade and investment facilitation:</strong> Beijing proposed a BRICS special economic zone partnership, including an intelligent portal for coordinating policies. China will also host the BRICS Forum on Trade in Services next year.</p><p><strong>Digital industry cooperation:</strong> Xi proposed a BRICS digital ecosystem cloud platform, alongside digital skills training, technological exchanges and industrial alignment to support the digital economy.</p><p><strong>Intelligent manufacturing cooperation:</strong> China offered to assist BRICS countries in developing smart factories and standards while promoting the transformation and upgrading of manufacturing.</p><p><strong>Science and technology talent development:</strong> Beijing proposed a BRICS engineer cultivation alliance for joint training and mutual recognition of competency standards. China will also launch a youth exchange programme focused on scientific and technological innovation.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Xi Jinping attended Session II of the 18th BRICS Summit and delivered an important statement.<br><br>President Xi proposed five initiatives for deepening BRICS cooperation:<br><br>1️⃣ The open source and inclusive AI initiative. <br><br>China will be a pioneer in establishing a BRICS AI… <a href="https://t.co/vkrgElHs7m">pic.twitter.com/vkrgElHs7m</a></p>&mdash; Xu Feihong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://x.com/China_Amb_India/status/2099058641869398498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>BRICS pushes diplomacy</strong></h2><p>The BRICS declaration called for dialogue and diplomacy in West Asia, protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.</p><p>The bloc also reaffirmed support for a just and lasting Israeli-Palestinian settlement, called for an end to economic measures against Cuba and condemned conflicts in Sudan and Syria.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit called for a stronger Global South role in global affairs, rejected ‘might makes right’ and unveiled five initiatives spanning AI, trade, digital economy and technology.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday (Sep 13) called for a stronger role for the Global South in shaping international rules at the 10th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, where world leaders have gathered to discuss several global issues and development. Addressing Session II of the high-stakes summit, Xi said international law must apply equally to all countries and rejected the idea that powerful nations can dictate global affairs. He also unveiled five initiatives aimed at deepening cooperation within the grouping. Next year, China will hold the BRICS presidency. ‘Might makes right does not hold’ “A world without rules is like a crossroads without traffic lights, where chaos and disorder are all but guaranteed,” Xi said, according to the Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry. “Fairness and justice are a universal aspiration, and international rules must be written by all countries.” “The logic of ‘might makes right’ does not hold and should have been discarded long ago,” Xi added, urging Global South countries to jointly defend sovereign equality, noninterference and the peaceful settlement of disputes. His remarks came against the backdrop of the New Delhi Declaration, in which BRICS expressed concern over global polarisation, distrust and ongoing conflicts. The grouping voiced “deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in West Asia” and called for “maximum restraint, as well as avoiding actions that could further aggravate the situation.” Earlier on Saturday (Sep 12), Xi expressed concerns over the war in the Middle East, saying that the conflict does not serve the interests of the world. “As the situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region continues to evolve, the war there has caused serious losses to people across the region,” Xi was quoted as saying by state news agency Xinhua. It “does not serve the common interests of the international community”, he added. Xi’s five initiatives Open-source and inclusive AI: China proposed establishing a BRICS AI open-source community, with cooperation on large language models, specialised seminars and training courses to create an open AI ecosystem. Trade and investment facilitation: Beijing proposed a BRICS special economic zone partnership, including an intelligent portal for coordinating policies. China will also host the BRICS Forum on Trade in Services next year. Digital industry cooperation: Xi proposed a BRICS digital ecosystem cloud platform, alongside digital skills training, technological exchanges and industrial alignment to support the digital economy. Intelligent manufacturing cooperation: China offered to assist BRICS countries in developing smart factories and standards while promoting the transformation and upgrading of manufacturing. Science and technology talent development: Beijing proposed a BRICS engineer cultivation alliance for joint training and mutual recognition of competency standards. China will also launch a youth exchange programme focused on scientific and technological innovation.

<p>Xi Jinping at the BRICS Summit called for a stronger Global South role in global affairs, rejected ‘might makes right’ and unveiled five initiatives spanning AI, trade, digital economy and technology.</p>

‘Might makes right does not hold’: China’s Xi challenges global power politics with 5 BRICS initiatives

In one of the biggest highlights of BRICS 2026, Xi Jinping told PM Modi that China and India are "partners, not rivals, and opportunities, not threats" for each other, laying out a four-point framework for steadier ties. Modi thanked Xi for backing India's BRICS chairship and confirmed India will fully support China as it takes over the chairship in 2027 to host the 19th Summit. Border peace, trade imbalances and market access also featured prominently in the talks.


BRICS Summit 2026: China aims to start third 'golden decade' of BRICS cooperation 

<p>As the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi under India’s chairship concludes on Sunday (September 13), its greatest success would be the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. The detailed 45-page, 140-point document demonstrated that the expanded 11-member grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, the UAE and Saudi Arabia can still forge consensus despite their individual differences.</p><h2>Consensus language on West Asia conflict</h2><p>Consensus demanded intensive late-night negotiations lasting until 4 am. But consensus was achieved. What was thought to be insurmountable was achieved. Iran and the UAE had to be on board with the language on the West Asia conflict. In the backdrop was the failure to produce a joint statement on the same issue during the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting earlier in the year. As chair, India facilitated the carefully worded compromise. That included expressing serious concern over escalation, deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards. In what looked like a counterpoint to the US expression ‘maximum pressure’, the Delhi Declaration called for “maximum restraint.” It sought the protection of civilians, respect for sovereignty and a return to dialogue. There was no blame game. And the declaration was passed with no objections, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-pm-modi-praises-india-s-chairmanship-sends-critical-minerals-and-supply-chain-message-on-day-2-china-xi-jinping-present-1789277773320">BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi's 'critical minerals' and 'supply chain' message on Day 2 in front of China's Xi</a></p><h2>No ambiguity on terrorism: Pahalgam attack condemned</h2><p>A sensitive topic for India, on which it did not always get the backing of China, terrorism was a closely-watched issue. The wording was important. The declaration explicitly condemned, in the strongest terms, the April 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir that left 26 people dead.</p><p>It used zero-tolerance language on terrorism in all forms, cross-border movement of terrorists, financing and safe havens, and, most importantly, the ‘rejection of double standards’. Clearly, China concurred with the inclusion of such language.</p><h2>Support for India’s UNSC aspirations</h2><p>Mentioned among calls for comprehensive UN reform, including reform of the Security Council to make it more democratic, representative, effective and reflective of developing countries and the Global South, was support for India’s aspirations.</p><p>China and Russia, the two permanent members of the UN Security Council from BRICS, reiterated their support for the aspirations of India and Brazil to play a greater role in the UN, including at the UNSC.</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-new-delhi-declaration-adopted-with-full-consensus-a-diplomatic-win-for-india-1789283129951/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-new-delhi-declaration-adopted-with-full-consensus-a-diplomatic-win-for-india-1789283129951/embed</a></p><h2>Push against the West from tariffs to climate, but in subtle language</h2><p>It was not lost on anyone which countries the BRICS declaration was referring to when it pushed back against certain trade and climate measures. Trump tariffs and energy trade curbs have, in the past couple of years, affected several BRICS nations, particularly China, India, Russia and Brazil.</p><p>The summit took a clear stance against unilateral tariffs and trade restrictions. This, as well as climate change measures such as the EU-led carbon border adjustment mechanisms (CBAMs), were described as potentially unilateral, punitive, discriminatory or protectionist and inconsistent with international law.</p><p>The declaration called unilateral coercive measures and sanctions contrary to international law.</p><p>It called for a better position for the Global South in key financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund &nbsp;and World Bank, as well as greater representation in global trade institutions such as the World Trade Organization.</p><p>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/brics-at-20-the-rule-takers-want-to-become-rule-shapers-1789237550996">BRICS at 20: The rule-takers want to become rule-shapers</a></p><h2>United on economic and financial cooperation</h2><p>The declaration made it clear that the BRICS Payment Task Force is going to continue working towards efficient, fast and low-cost cross-border payments among member countries. Without mentioning dedollarisation or a BRICS currency, it advocated local-currency trade settlements and investments.</p><p>There was also the establishment of the BRICS Task Force on Growth and Development, a proposed BRICS repository for digital public infrastructure with pilot projects, and a BRICS-New Development Bank Knowledge Portal.</p><h2>The China-India optics that went well</h2><p>The China-India dynamic was being keenly watched, given that President Xi Jinping was visiting the nation after a long gap. The group gave its support to China’s 2027 chairship.&nbsp;</p><p>The group achieved consensus on a wide range of issues, including global governance, multilateralism, multipolarity, sustainable growth and people-to-people ties.</p><p>The spirit was one of mutual respect. The prior deadlocks were resolved.&nbsp;</p><p>BRICS Summit Declartion might be largely declaratory and initiative-based. But it is far better than the paralysis seen in several other regional and multilateral organisations.</p><p>The Declaration was adopted on the first day of the summit itself. But its outcomes remain subject to subsequent implementation. That can happen only when the grouping remains consensus- and respect-based.</p>

The New Delhi Declaration was marked a BRICS consensus on a range of issues, from West Asia, terrorism, India’s UNSC aspirations, trade restrictions, and Global South representation in global organisations. 


As the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi under India’s chairship concludes on Sunday (September 13), its greatest success would be the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. The detailed 45-page, 140-point document demonstrated that the expanded 11-member grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, the UAE and Saudi Arabia can still forge consensus despite their individual differences. Consensus language on West Asia conflict Consensus demanded intensive late-night negotiations lasting until 4 am. But consensus was achieved. What was thought to be insurmountable was achieved. Iran and the UAE had to be on board with the language on the West Asia conflict. In the backdrop was the failure to produce a joint statement on the same issue during the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting earlier in the year. As chair, India facilitated the carefully worded compromise. That included expressing serious concern over escalation, deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards. In what looked like a counterpoint to the US expression ‘maximum pressure’, the Delhi Declaration called for “maximum restraint.” It sought the protection of civilians, respect for sovereignty and a return to dialogue. There was no blame game. And the declaration was passed with no objections, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also read: BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi's 'critical minerals' and 'supply chain' message on Day 2 in front of China's Xi No ambiguity on terrorism: Pahalgam attack condemned A sensitive topic for India, on which it did not always get the backing of China, terrorism was a closely-watched issue. The wording was important. The declaration explicitly condemned, in the strongest terms, the April 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir that left 26 people dead. It used zero-tolerance language on terrorism in all forms, cross-border movement of terrorists, financing and safe havens, and, most importantly, the ‘rejection of double standards’. Clearly, China concurred with the inclusion of such language. Support for India’s UNSC aspirations Mentioned among calls for comprehensive UN reform, including reform of the Security Council to make it more democratic, representative, effective and reflective of developing countries and the Global South, was support for India’s aspirations. China and Russia, the two permanent members of the UN Security Council from BRICS, reiterated their support for the aspirations of India and Brazil to play a greater role in the UN, including at the UNSC. https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-new-delhi-declaration-adopted-with-full-consensus-a-diplomatic-win-for-india-1789283129951/embed Push against the West from tariffs to climate, but in subtle language It was not lost on anyone which countries the BRICS declaration was referring to when it pushed back against certain trade and climate measures. Trump tariffs and energy trade curbs have, in the past couple of years, affected several BRICS nations, particularly China, India, Russia and Brazil. The summit took a clear stance against unilateral tariffs and trade restrictions. This, as well as climate change measures such as the EU-led carbon border adjustment mechanisms (CBAMs), were described as potentially unilateral, punitive, discriminatory or protectionist and inconsistent with international law. The declaration called unilateral coercive measures and sanctions contrary to international law. It called for a better position for the Global South in key financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, as well as greater representation in global trade institutions such as the World Trade Organization. Also read: BRICS at 20: The rule-takers want to become rule-shapers United on economic and financial cooperation The declaration made it clear that the BRICS Payment Task Force is going to continue working towards efficient, fast and low-cost cross-border payments among member countries. Without mentioning dedollarisation or a BRICS currency, it advocated local-currency trade settlements and investments. There was also the establishment of the BRICS Task Force on Growth and Development, a proposed BRICS repository for digital public infrastructure with pilot projects, and a BRICS-New Development Bank Knowledge Portal. The China-India optics that went well The China-India dynamic was being keenly watched, given that President Xi Jinping was visiting the nation after a long gap. The group gave its support to China’s 2027 chairship. The group achieved consensus on a wide range of issues, including global governance, multilateralism, multipolarity, sustainable growth and people-to-people ties. The spirit was one of mutual respect. The prior deadlocks were resolved. BRICS Summit Declartion might be largely declaratory and initiative-based. But it is far better than the paralysis seen in several other regional and multilateral organisations. The Declaration was adopted on the first day of the summit itself. But its outcomes remain subject to subsequent implementation. That can happen only when the grouping remains consensus- and respect-based.

<p>The New Delhi Declaration marked a BRICS consensus on a range of issues, from West Asia, terrorism, India’s UNSC aspirations, trade restrictions, and Global South representation in global organisations.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Did BRICS Summit 2026 prove that an 11-member bloc with India and China in it can still agree on key issues?

<p>Is this old wine in a new bottle? That is the question I asked myself as I waded through the 45-page, 140-paragraph Delhi declaration of the BRICS Summit sealed at the weekend in New Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam. There is indeed plenty in the 10,000-plus-word “consensus document” that smells like old wine or whine, if you will, as laggard developing countries and their elder brothers, emerging economies, talk implicitly about US/Western domination of the world order and ask for reforms in bodies like the UN and the IMF that traditionally showed Western clout.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-china-controls-over-60-of-global-rare-earth-mining-output-1789293933860/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-china-controls-over-60-of-global-rare-earth-mining-output-1789293933860/embed</a>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>But God, it seems, is in the details much like his opponent, the Devil. While the Devil still lies in the contradictions embedded in bringing disparate political ideologies and state systems under a single documentary roof (such as a paragraph on women’s rights in a meeting where the Islamist president of Iran is a key figure), God might lie in the economic power of BRICS countries now being embraced by other significant economies of the Global South. And I am not talking just of the fact that BRICS economies now account for 40% of the global GDP that was underlined at the summit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The wise thing is to look for teeth that can bite. And BRICS economies do have teeth to bite, but they are not showing it enough as the temptation of old-world multilateralism lingers amid an undercurrent of caution on what a tariff-drunk US could do next. The takeaway for me is not the official “Differences should not become disputes” line that shows a desire for consensus, but more like “We have got power that we are not ready to display yet.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-2026-pm-modi-praises-india-s-chairmanship-sends-critical-minerals-and-supply-chain-message-on-day-2-china-xi-jinping-present-1789277773320"><strong>BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi's 'critical minerals' and 'supply chain' message on Day 2 in front of China's Xi</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Flashback to the 1970s, when the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) became a forum of developing countries to seek better prices for commodity exports to the developed economies, or the quest for a New International Economic Order (NIEO), proposals for which were adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1974. The idea then was to eliminate inequalities between the North and the South (the Global prefix is a recent addition to include some laggard economies of Europe). Inequalities within countries and between countries remain a BRICS theme, but we need to look beyond platitudes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are references in the New Delhi declarations that smell much the same but I was impressed by the groundwork done by BRICS under India’s role as its chair that outlines specific areas where what used to be called South-South trade can emerge as Intra-BRICS collaboration in trade, technology and economic ventures. This would stretch beyond traditional merchandise or services trade to include joint ventures, manufacturing collaborations or service delivery mechanisms.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-summit-climate-change-stance-delhi-declaration-hints-at-changing-priorities-of-global-south-1789283485338"><strong>BRICS Summit climate change stance: Delhi Declaration hints at changing priorities of Global South</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Where I see a glaring hole is that there is no mechanism yet to facilitate this on a large scale. What I am looking for is a single platform or set of platforms that can lead to the discovery of opportunities and prospects between business entities of BRICS economies and their newfound allies. What has changed since the 1970s is the emergence of new technology-driven opportunities in which emerging economies are strong entities capable of being significant global players. There is delicious irony in the fact that the Internet, birthed in the US defence department, provides an easy information exchange mechanism where the discovery of price and opportunities can produce dramatic results in trade within the Global South.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This is where I believe BRICS as a group (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) can emerge from the old wine of glorified petitioning to a new brew of collective clout.</p><p>Talk of joint defence manufacturing between Russia and India is only the tip of what could be a solid iceberg that might make Uncle Sam think twice about threatening emerging economies with unilateral tariffs. For decades now, old colonial economies have been driven by what some academics have described as “Eurocentrism” (effectively including the US as a global superpower). US tariff threats potentially wake up countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, besides Russia, to look at each other more vigorously as economic partners. This could well be a case of threats generating opportunities.</p><p>The declaration talks of “strengthening capacities, promoting innovation, and advancing sustainable development and resilience” and includes people-to-people exchanges. While it meanders into a nostalgic recollection of the 1955 Asian-African Conference in Bandung in Indonesia to forge a post-colonial consensus that gave rise to the now-defunct Non-Aligned Movement that attempted equidistance from both the former Soviet Union and the US, the new reality that now includes Russia spells a power shift that has implications for geo-economics.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The declaration spells out in detail initiatives taken in areas like power distribution, solar energy, education, health, digital economy, sustainability, and the environment for cooperation; its mention of the potential for special economic zones (SEZs) provides a tangible character for future action.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, we need a reality check on some of the subtly underlined ambition of the BRICS group to reduce US dollar dominance. The declaration’s mention of “efficient cross-border payment mechanisms” with an emphasis on local currencies needs some hard testing. Currencies are only symptoms of underlying economic value. Much like the Cold War era’s rupee trade between India and the former Soviet Union, any attempt by BRICS nations to boost local currencies needs a higher emphasis on sectors where they could minimise Western dominance by identifying areas where trade value lies in hard deliverables. This is where the idea of an efficient platform for price and opportunity discovery makes sense.</p><p>It is undeniable that both Europe and the US remain key creation zones for emerging technologies protected and led by high-value patents. Where BRICS can score—and is already doing to some extent—is in the exploitation of opportunities and ecosystems generated by the new technologies. India showed that to the world in making affordable pharmaceuticals. China’s DeepSeek and other initiatives in artificial intelligence and robotics show a new possibility.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There is no substitute for hard economic value in trade. A shift away from “Eurocentrism” can generate a solid counterpoint in trade, education, and environmental initiatives. BRICS can do that by looking at the details of emerging ecosystems and spotting opportunities where the West’s leadership or trading edge is based more on inertia of the past than genuine value for the future. That should be the next thing to do.</p>

While BRICS holds significant hidden leverage in global technology and cross-border trade, the bloc must build shared digital and institutional platforms to unlock its full potential.

Is this old wine in a new bottle? That is the question I asked myself as I waded through the 45-page, 140-paragraph Delhi declaration of the BRICS Summit sealed at the weekend in New Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam. There is indeed plenty in the 10,000-plus-word “consensus document” that smells like old wine or whine, if you will, as laggard developing countries and their elder brothers, emerging economies, talk implicitly about US/Western domination of the world order and ask for reforms in bodies like the UN and the IMF that traditionally showed Western clout. https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2026-china-controls-over-60-of-global-rare-earth-mining-output-1789293933860/embed But God, it seems, is in the details much like his opponent, the Devil. While the Devil still lies in the contradictions embedded in bringing disparate political ideologies and state systems under a single documentary roof (such as a paragraph on women’s rights in a meeting where the Islamist president of Iran is a key figure), God might lie in the economic power of BRICS countries now being embraced by other significant economies of the Global South. And I am not talking just of the fact that BRICS economies now account for 40% of the global GDP that was underlined at the summit. The wise thing is to look for teeth that can bite. And BRICS economies do have teeth to bite, but they are not showing it enough as the temptation of old-world multilateralism lingers amid an undercurrent of caution on what a tariff-drunk US could do next. The takeaway for me is not the official “Differences should not become disputes” line that shows a desire for consensus, but more like “We have got power that we are not ready to display yet.” Also read: BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi's 'critical minerals' and 'supply chain' message on Day 2 in front of China's Xi Flashback to the 1970s, when the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) became a forum of developing countries to seek better prices for commodity exports to the developed economies, or the quest for a New International Economic Order (NIEO), proposals for which were adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1974. The idea then was to eliminate inequalities between the North and the South (the Global prefix is a recent addition to include some laggard economies of Europe). Inequalities within countries and between countries remain a BRICS theme, but we need to look beyond platitudes. There are references in the New Delhi declarations that smell much the same but I was impressed by the groundwork done by BRICS under India’s role as its chair that outlines specific areas where what used to be called South-South trade can emerge as Intra-BRICS collaboration in trade, technology and economic ventures. This would stretch beyond traditional merchandise or services trade to include joint ventures, manufacturing collaborations or service delivery mechanisms. Also read: BRICS Summit climate change stance: Delhi Declaration hints at changing priorities of Global South Where I see a glaring hole is that there is no mechanism yet to facilitate this on a large scale. What I am looking for is a single platform or set of platforms that can lead to the discovery of opportunities and prospects between business entities of BRICS economies and their newfound allies. What has changed since the 1970s is the emergence of new technology-driven opportunities in which emerging economies are strong entities capable of being significant global players. There is delicious irony in the fact that the Internet, birthed in the US defence department, provides an easy information exchange mechanism where the discovery of price and opportunities can produce dramatic results in trade within the Global South. This is where I believe BRICS as a group (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) can emerge from the old wine of glorified petitioning to a new brew of collective clout. Talk of joint defence manufacturing between Russia and India is only the tip of what could be a solid iceberg that might make Uncle Sam think twice about threatening emerging economies with unilateral tariffs. For decades now, old colonial economies have been driven by what some academics have described as “Eurocentrism” (effectively including the US as a global superpower). US tariff threats potentially wake up countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, besides Russia, to look at each other more vigorously as economic partners. This could well be a case of threats generating opportunities. The declaration talks of “strengthening capacities, promoting innovation, and advancing sustainable development and resilience” and includes people-to-people exchanges. While it meanders into a nostalgic recollection of the 1955 Asian-African Conference in Bandung in Indonesia to forge a post-colonial consensus that gave rise to the now-defunct Non-Aligned Movement that attempted equidistance from both the former Soviet Union and the US, the new reality that now includes Russia spells a power shift that has implications for geo-economics. The declaration spells out in detail initiatives taken in areas like power distribution, solar energy, education, health, digital economy, sustainability, and the environment for cooperation; its mention of the potential for special economic zones (SEZs) provides a tangible character for future action. However, we need a reality check on some of the subtly underlined ambition of the BRICS group to reduce US dollar dominance. The declaration’s mention of “efficient cross-border payment mechanisms” with an emphasis on local currencies needs some hard testing. Currencies are only symptoms of underlying economic value. Much like the Cold War era’s rupee trade between India and the former Soviet Union, any attempt by BRICS nations to boost local currencies needs a higher emphasis on sectors where they could minimise Western dominance by identifying areas where trade value lies in hard deliverables. This is where the idea of an efficient platform for price and opportunity discovery makes sense. It is undeniable that both Europe and the US remain key creation zones for emerging technologies protected and led by high-value patents. Where BRICS can score—and is already doing to some extent—is in the exploitation of opportunities and ecosystems generated by the new technologies. India showed that to the world in making affordable pharmaceuticals. China’s DeepSeek and other initiatives in artificial intelligence and robotics show a new possibility. There is no substitute for hard economic value in trade. A shift away from “Eurocentrism” can generate a solid counterpoint in trade, education, and environmental initiatives. BRICS can do that by looking at the details of emerging ecosystems and spotting opportunities where the West’s leadership or trading edge is based more on inertia of the past than genuine value for the future. That should be the next thing to do.

<p>While BRICS holds significant hidden leverage in global technology and cross-border trade, the bloc must build shared digital and institutional platforms to unlock its full potential.</p>

BRICS shows hidden clout in tech and trade, but needs platforms to make it work

BRICS leaders gathered for the main open session as PM Modi took the floor to open discussions on inclusive global growth. Modi flagged serious concerns over the "weaponisation of technology and critical minerals," warning it could hinder shared progress and prosperity for the bloc. He also pointed to rising geopolitical tensions hurting ordinary lives worldwide, stressing that BRICS must strengthen resilience, especially for the Global South, through better supply chains and tech access.


BRICS Summit 2026: China controls over 60% of global rare earth mining output 

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