Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrives in India to attend the BRICS Summit as tensions between Iran, the US and Israel remain high. His visit comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in West Asia, with global leaders gathering in New Delhi for key discussions. Pezeshkian is expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit. Stay tuned to WION for the latest updates from the BRICS Summit.

BRICS Summit 2026: Iranian president Pezeshkian lands in New Delhi

India holds a unique diplomatic position as it hosts the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12–13, 2026, balancing its role as chair of the Expanded Brics bloc while maintaining vital strategic partnerships with Western allies through frameworks like the Quad.

 BRICS: India in a potentially unique diplomatic position

India’s BRICS presidency is putting resilience and innovation at the heart of the 2026 summit agenda. The focus is on strengthening economic cooperation, driving innovation and building a more resilient Global South amid growing global challenges.

BRICS summit 2026: India's BRICS presidency focuses on resilience, innovation

BRICS is usually measured in GDP, population, trade and energy. But place the expanded grouping on a military map and another picture emerges: a significant concentration of nuclear weapons, missile forces, major armies, naval power, defence industries and strategic geography. At its centre are Russia, India and China, three nuclear-armed powers representing distinct models of military strength.&nbsp;Russia brings strategic nuclear depth, a formidable missile arsenal, advanced air-defence systems, nuclear submarines and a defence industry operating under the pressures of years of war in Ukraine. Its recent combat experience has also provided lessons in drones, electronic warfare, ammunition consumption and sustaining military production during prolonged conflict.India represents a different model.&nbsp;&nbsp;Its nuclear deterrent, Agni missiles, BrahMos, aircraft carriers, ballistic-missile submarines and increasingly sophisticated air and missile defences are reinforced by its commanding position in the Indian Ocean. At the same time, India's growing indigenous defence ecosystem is steadily expanding its ability to manufacture missiles, warships, artillery, aircraft, drones and electronic systems. China's strength lies in combining military modernisation with enormous industrial capacity. The PLA operates the world's largest navy by number of battle-force ships, fields the J-20 stealth fighter and possesses a vast conventional missile arsenal. Its expanding capabilities in space, cyber warfare, drones and autonomous systems add another dimension to Chinese hard power.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-military-map-the-world-s-new-centres-of-hard-power-1789053586002/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-military-map-the-world-s-new-centres-of-hard-power-1789053586002/embed</a>&nbsp;Beyond the three heavyweights, BRICS brings together other specialised centres of military capability. Iran has demonstrated considerable missile, drone and asymmetric-warfare capabilities. Brazil possesses a significant aerospace industry. Saudi Arabia and the UAE operate advanced combat aircraft and are investing in domestic defence production. Egypt combines substantial military strength with the strategic significance of the Suez Canal, while Indonesia occupies a critical position along Indo-Pacific maritime routes.&nbsp;Speaking to former Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Lt Gen Satish Dua on WION's Defence Pulse, he highlighted the scale of the grouping's military weight. "Russia is the second largest military today, China is the third largest military, and India is the fourth largest military... it's a very good hard-power combination of three countries alone."&nbsp;The uniqueness of India's foreign policy requires a thorough study from other nations. Afterall,&nbsp;India can sit with Russia and China in BRICS, while simultaneously exercising with the United States, France, Japan and Australia. &nbsp;For Dua, India's distinguishing strength goes beyond weapons. "Very few countries, if any at all, possess the kind of strategic autonomy that India seems to be able to leverage today. We are engaging with both the West and the East and the Global South."&nbsp;That distinction is important. BRICS is not a military alliance and possesses no collective-defence clause or integrated military command. Its members have different strategic priorities. But from the Arctic and Eurasia to Hormuz, Suez, the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific sea lanes, the expanded BRICS brings together an extraordinary combination of military capability, industrial capacity and strategic geography. When one looks at BRICS beyond the prism of economic power, one should not miss&nbsp;how much of the world's hard power now sits there too.

BRICS is not a military alliance and possesses no collective-defence clause or integrated military command. Its members have different strategic priorities

BRICS is usually measured in GDP, population, trade and energy. But place the expanded grouping on a military map and another picture emerges: a significant concentration of nuclear weapons, missile forces, major armies, naval power, defence industries and strategic geography. At its centre are Russia, India and China, three nuclear-armed powers representing distinct models of military strength. Russia brings strategic nuclear depth, a formidable missile arsenal, advanced air-defence systems, nuclear submarines and a defence industry operating under the pressures of years of war in Ukraine. Its recent combat experience has also provided lessons in drones, electronic warfare, ammunition consumption and sustaining military production during prolonged conflict. India represents a different model. Its nuclear deterrent, Agni missiles, BrahMos, aircraft carriers, ballistic-missile submarines and increasingly sophisticated air and missile defences are reinforced by its commanding position in the Indian Ocean. At the same time, India's growing indigenous defence ecosystem is steadily expanding its ability to manufacture missiles, warships, artillery, aircraft, drones and electronic systems. China's strength lies in combining military modernisation with enormous industrial capacity. The PLA operates the world's largest navy by number of battle-force ships, fields the J-20 stealth fighter and possesses a vast conventional missile arsenal. Its expanding capabilities in space, cyber warfare, drones and autonomous systems add another dimension to Chinese hard power. https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-military-map-the-world-s-new-centres-of-hard-power-1789053586002/embed Beyond the three heavyweights, BRICS brings together other specialised centres of military capability. Iran has demonstrated considerable missile, drone and asymmetric-warfare capabilities. Brazil possesses a significant aerospace industry. Saudi Arabia and the UAE operate advanced combat aircraft and are investing in domestic defence production. Egypt combines substantial military strength with the strategic significance of the Suez Canal, while Indonesia occupies a critical position along Indo-Pacific maritime routes. Speaking to former Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Lt Gen Satish Dua on WION's Defence Pulse, he highlighted the scale of the grouping's military weight. "Russia is the second largest military today, China is the third largest military, and India is the fourth largest military... it's a very good hard-power combination of three countries alone." The uniqueness of India's foreign policy requires a thorough study from other nations. Afterall, India can sit with Russia and China in BRICS, while simultaneously exercising with the United States, France, Japan and Australia. For Dua, India's distinguishing strength goes beyond weapons. "Very few countries, if any at all, possess the kind of strategic autonomy that India seems to be able to leverage today. We are engaging with both the West and the East and the Global South." That distinction is important. BRICS is not a military alliance and possesses no collective-defence clause or integrated military command. Its members have different strategic priorities. But from the Arctic and Eurasia to Hormuz, Suez, the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific sea lanes, the expanded BRICS brings together an extraordinary combination of military capability, industrial capacity and strategic geography. When one looks at BRICS beyond the prism of economic power, one should not miss how much of the world's hard power now sits there too.

BRICS is not a military alliance and possesses no collective-defence clause or integrated military command. Its members have different strategic priorities

How much military power now sits inside the expanded BRICS?

The political row within the Congress over India hosting the BRICS Summit has taken a new turn, with party MP Shashi Tharoor backing the event and pushing back against colleague P Chidambaram’s questions over its tangible benefits. Chidambaram had on Tuesday questioned the concrete gains India had secured from participating in multilateral groupings such as BRICS. His comments drew strong criticism from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which subsequently questioned the Congress’ broader approach to diplomacy.&nbsp;Tharoor, however, defended the significance of the BRICS Summit while speaking to news agency PTI on Thursday. “First of all, we're providing an important platform for the Global South. You know, the Global South is over 100 countries, but here we have 11 key players from the Global South who collectively represent much of the diversity of views, as well as the range of countries that we are essentially chairing on this particular occasion. This grouping, the 11 BRICS countries, represents a majority of the world's population and 41 per cent of global GDP.” He added: “It's not a small matter; it's something that has to be taken very seriously by the rest of the world.”&nbsp;The Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram also highlighted the diplomatic significance of India hosting the summit, describing it as a “matter of great prestige”. “Secondly, of course, having a dozen heads of state and government, not only members of BRICS but also some observers coming at presidential and prime ministerial level, is a matter of great prestige for us. It shows a certain diplomatic convening power, which has value in and of itself on the global stage,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-s-political-economic-order-under-churn-says-s-jaishankar-at-brics-business-forum-flags-global-volatility-uncertainty-1789107461435">World's political, economic order under 'churn', says S Jaishankar at BRICS Business Forum; flags global volatility, uncertainty</a><h2>What did Chidambaram say about BRICS?</h2>On Wednesday, Chidambaram said India is a member of several major multilateral groupings, including BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), G20 and QUAD, but questioned the concrete benefits India had received from them. “I don't know how many Presidents and how many Prime Ministers are coming. I don't think the last two or three BRICS summits have resulted in tangible benefits or tangible results,” he told news agency ANI. “In fact, we are part of BRICS, we are part of SCO, we are part of G20, and we are part of QUAD. What benefits are we getting out of that? I can't see. In the last two or three summits, I didn't see any benefits. Earlier, the BRICS Summits resulted in some tangible benefits,” he added.<h2>BJP attacks Congress over BRICS remarks</h2>The BJP seized on Chidambaram’s remarks to question the Congress’ position on diplomacy. Senior party leader Nalin Kohli compared the opposition party’s approach to that of a "naaraz fufa". “It is a surprise to note the statement of Mr. Chidambaram and the Congress Party, particularly at a time when India is hosting such an important event, the BRICS summit, where many heads of state and heads of government will come, and there will be direct meetings also, one-on-one meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and these leaders,” senior party leader Nalin Kohli said.&nbsp;“What is the intent of the Congress Party? Is diplomacy to be seen as a transaction, like the Congress Party is projecting? What have I done for you? What will you do for me? Kind of an approach. What is the so-called tangible result? I mean, if we talk of tangible results, we can question what the Congress party's entire approach from 1947 right up to 2014 was on diplomacy. The Congress party certainly raises questions about itself when it asks and points out the so-called tangible results and questions the BRICS summit in Delhi,” he added.

Shashi Tharoor backs the BRICS Summit and counters P Chidambaram’s criticism, calling India’s hosting role a sign of diplomatic convening power

The political row within the Congress over India hosting the BRICS Summit has taken a new turn, with party MP Shashi Tharoor backing the event and pushing back against colleague P Chidambaram’s questions over its tangible benefits. Chidambaram had on Tuesday questioned the concrete gains India had secured from participating in multilateral groupings such as BRICS. His comments drew strong criticism from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which subsequently questioned the Congress’ broader approach to diplomacy. Tharoor, however, defended the significance of the BRICS Summit while speaking to news agency PTI on Thursday. “First of all, we're providing an important platform for the Global South. You know, the Global South is over 100 countries, but here we have 11 key players from the Global South who collectively represent much of the diversity of views, as well as the range of countries that we are essentially chairing on this particular occasion. This grouping, the 11 BRICS countries, represents a majority of the world's population and 41 per cent of global GDP.” He added: “It's not a small matter; it's something that has to be taken very seriously by the rest of the world.” The Lok Sabha MP from Thiruvananthapuram also highlighted the diplomatic significance of India hosting the summit, describing it as a “matter of great prestige”. “Secondly, of course, having a dozen heads of state and government, not only members of BRICS but also some observers coming at presidential and prime ministerial level, is a matter of great prestige for us. It shows a certain diplomatic convening power, which has value in and of itself on the global stage,” he said. Also Read: World's political, economic order under 'churn', says S Jaishankar at BRICS Business Forum; flags global volatility, uncertainty What did Chidambaram say about BRICS? On Wednesday, Chidambaram said India is a member of several major multilateral groupings, including BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), G20 and QUAD, but questioned the concrete benefits India had received from them. “I don't know how many Presidents and how many Prime Ministers are coming. I don't think the last two or three BRICS summits have resulted in tangible benefits or tangible results,” he told news agency ANI. “In fact, we are part of BRICS, we are part of SCO, we are part of G20, and we are part of QUAD. What benefits are we getting out of that? I can't see. In the last two or three summits, I didn't see any benefits. Earlier, the BRICS Summits resulted in some tangible benefits,” he added. BJP attacks Congress over BRICS remarks The BJP seized on Chidambaram’s remarks to question the Congress’ position on diplomacy. Senior party leader Nalin Kohli compared the opposition party’s approach to that of a "naaraz fufa". “It is a surprise to note the statement of Mr. Chidambaram and the Congress Party, particularly at a time when India is hosting such an important event, the BRICS summit, where many heads of state and heads of government will come, and there will be direct meetings also, one-on-one meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and these leaders,” senior party leader Nalin Kohli said. “What is the intent of the Congress Party? Is diplomacy to be seen as a transaction, like the Congress Party is projecting? What have I done for you? What will you do for me? Kind of an approach. What is the so-called tangible result? I mean, if we talk of tangible results, we can question what the Congress party's entire approach from 1947 right up to 2014 was on diplomacy. The Congress party certainly raises questions about itself when it asks and points out the so-called tangible results and questions the BRICS summit in Delhi,” he added.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor backs the BRICS Summit, countering P Chidambaram’s doubts and calling it proof of India’s diplomatic convening power

Tharoor counters Chidambaram on BRICS Summit, says summit reflects India’s ‘diplomatic convening power’

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday (September 11) that the world is witnessing a significant change in the political and economic order. This development has brought volatility, uncertainty, and complexity, which have become defining features at the global level. Addressing the BRICS Business Forum, Jaishankar said the world is also experiencing geopolitical conflicts, pandemics and climate-related disruptions, prompting economic consequences. He added that rapid digitisation and technological advances were opening a new space for growth, productivity and development. "We meet at a time when global political and economic order is in flux. Volatility, uncertainty, and complexity have become defining features of the world around us. We are witnessing the economic consequences of geopolitical conflicts, of pandemics, and of climate-related disruptions," EAM Jaishankar said. "At the same time, rapid digitisation and technological advances are opening new possibilities for growth, productivity and development. The result is an economic landscape where both risks and opportunities are becoming more widely distributed and where the ability to anticipate, adapt and respond is acquiring greater importance," Jaishankar added. He underscored the common thread that makes it easier for businesses in BRICS countries to find more partners, access more markets, connect supply networks, and convert complementarities into viable commercial partnerships. He also said that higher economic activity and higher economic security indicate a greater self-reliance for countries like BRICS. "The objective is to strengthen our ability to absorb shocks while remaining connected and competitive. That calls for genuine market practices, dependable logistics, a predictable business environment, diversified commercial relationships, and transparent trade and investment. It also calls for energy systems capable of coping with disruption and transition pathways that are suited to different national circumstances," EAM Jaishankar said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-business-forum-begins-in-new-delhi-as-focus-on-trade-ai-finance-and-energy-security-what-to-expect-1789101298537">BRICS Business Forum begins in New Delhi as focus on trade, AI, finance and energy security. What to expect</a><h3>Piyush Goyal pushes for simplified trade</h3>Union Commerce and Trade Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the delegation with folded hands in a traditional ‘namaste’ in the capital, New Delhi, for the Opening Session of the BRICS Business Forum. Highlighting India's role as the "pharmacy of the world," he emphasised "economic diplomacy," as the need of the hour.&nbsp;Addressing the assembly, he stated, “BRICS today represents almost one-fourth of global trade. India is an important pillar of intra-BRICS trade. Engineering goods and electronics account for the largest segment of India's manufactured exports. India is also known as the pharmacy of the world. We see BRICS as an important market for these and other products that India seeks to take to the world as a trusted partner.”

S Jaishankar underscored the common thread that makes it easier for businesses in BRICS countries to find more partners, access more markets, connect supply networks, and convert complementarities into viable commercial partnerships.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday (September 11) that the world is witnessing a significant change in the political and economic order. This development has brought volatility, uncertainty, and complexity, which have become defining features at the global level. Addressing the BRICS Business Forum, Jaishankar said the world is also experiencing geopolitical conflicts, pandemics and climate-related disruptions, prompting economic consequences. He added that rapid digitisation and technological advances were opening a new space for growth, productivity and development. "We meet at a time when global political and economic order is in flux. Volatility, uncertainty, and complexity have become defining features of the world around us. We are witnessing the economic consequences of geopolitical conflicts, of pandemics, and of climate-related disruptions," EAM Jaishankar said. "At the same time, rapid digitisation and technological advances are opening new possibilities for growth, productivity and development. The result is an economic landscape where both risks and opportunities are becoming more widely distributed and where the ability to anticipate, adapt and respond is acquiring greater importance," Jaishankar added. He underscored the common thread that makes it easier for businesses in BRICS countries to find more partners, access more markets, connect supply networks, and convert complementarities into viable commercial partnerships. He also said that higher economic activity and higher economic security indicate a greater self-reliance for countries like BRICS. "The objective is to strengthen our ability to absorb shocks while remaining connected and competitive. That calls for genuine market practices, dependable logistics, a predictable business environment, diversified commercial relationships, and transparent trade and investment. It also calls for energy systems capable of coping with disruption and transition pathways that are suited to different national circumstances," EAM Jaishankar said. Also read: BRICS Business Forum begins in New Delhi as focus on trade, AI, finance and energy security. What to expect Piyush Goyal pushes for simplified trade Union Commerce and Trade Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the delegation with folded hands in a traditional ‘namaste’ in the capital, New Delhi, for the Opening Session of the BRICS Business Forum. Highlighting India's role as the "pharmacy of the world," he emphasised "economic diplomacy," as the need of the hour. Addressing the assembly, he stated, “BRICS today represents almost one-fourth of global trade. India is an important pillar of intra-BRICS trade. Engineering goods and electronics account for the largest segment of India's manufactured exports. India is also known as the pharmacy of the world. We see BRICS as an important market for these and other products that India seeks to take to the world as a trusted partner.”

S Jaishankar underscored the common thread that makes it easier for businesses in BRICS countries to find more partners, access more markets, connect supply networks, and convert complementarities into viable commercial partnerships.

World's political, economic order under 'churn', says S Jaishankar at BRICS Business Forum; flags global volatility, uncertainty

Delhi Traffic Police has prepared a traffic plan for movements between the airport, hotels and Bharat Mandapam during the BRICS Summit. Authorities have identified 22 diversion points and urged commuters to check the traffic advisory before planning their journeys.

BRICS Summit 2026: Delhi police set 22 diversion points for BRICS Summit movements

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit. He was received at the airport by MoS Jayant Chaudhary, as India and South Africa reaffirm their strategic partnership and shared commitment to the Global South.

EAM Jaishankar, Piyush Goyal among speakers at BRICS Business Forum 

BRICS countries are pushing currency diversification and local-currency settlements rather than an abrupt end to the US dollar’s role in global trade. Member nations are increasingly using currencies such as the rupee, ruble, yuan and dirham for bilateral trade to reduce transaction costs and strengthen financial cooperation.

BRICS focuses on diversification over de-dollarisation

In his keynote speech, Union Commerce and Trade Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the delegation with folded hands in a traditional ‘namaste’ in the capital, New Delhi, for the Opening Session of the BRICS Business Forum. Highlighting India's role as the "pharmacy of the world," he emphasised "economic diplomacy," as the need of the hour.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-india-in-a-potentially-unique-diplomatic-position-1789117524076/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-india-in-a-potentially-unique-diplomatic-position-1789117524076/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Addressing the assembly, he stated, "BRICS today represents almost one-fourth of global trade. India is an important pillar of intra-BRICS trade. Engineering goods and electronics account for the largest segment of India's manufactured exports. India is also known as the pharmacy of the world. We see BRICS as an important market for these and other products that India seeks to take to the world as a trusted partner."&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO HERE-

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BRICS Summit 2026 | Speaking at BRICS Business Forum, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal says, &quot;BRICS today represents almost one-fourth of global trade. India is an important pillar of the intra-bricks trade. Engineering goods and electronics account for… <a href="https://t.co/VuyGAhNtj6">pic.twitter.com/VuyGAhNtj6</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2098276165538713959?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Union Minister Goyal further urged BRICS member states and partner countries to open their markets, streamline regulatory procedures, and expedite consignment clearances.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-business-forum-begins-in-new-delhi-as-focus-on-trade-ai-finance-and-energy-security-what-to-expect-1789101298537">BRICS Business Forum begins in New Delhi as focus on trade, AI, finance and energy security. What to expect</a>&nbsp;Beyond export statistics, the minister framed India’s economic growth as a stabilising force for the Global South. He pointed out that transparent supply chains, digital public infrastructure, and mutual trust must form the core of future economic interactions. By leveraging technologies like India Stack and automated customs interfaces, member nations could drastically cut transaction costs and eliminate operational bottlenecks that historically delayed cross-border commerce.&nbsp;The minister's call for action resonated strongly with business leaders present in the hall. Representatives from member nations voiced support for developing synchronised trade standards, particularly in healthcare logistics and renewable technology. As global markets face ongoing supply chain realignments, India’s positioning as a resilient manufacturing hub and reliable trade ally gained renewed traction.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/pm-modi-calls-for-positive-meaningful-talks-ahead-of-brics-summit-1789100434885">PM Modi calls for 'positive, meaningful' talks ahead of BRICS Summit</a>&nbsp;Closing his address, Goyal called for a collaborative framework that prioritises equitable growth over protectionism. He invited international delegations to participate directly in India's expanding industrial corridors, emphasising that shared prosperity within BRICS hinges on open channels, clear regulatory pathways, and sustained economic diplomacy.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the BRICS delegation, emphasising economic diplomacy, market access, regulatory simplification, and India's role as a trusted exporter and the world's pharmacy.

In his keynote speech, Union Commerce and Trade Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the delegation with folded hands in a traditional ‘namaste’ in the capital, New Delhi, for the Opening Session of the BRICS Business Forum. Highlighting India's role as the "pharmacy of the world," he emphasised "economic diplomacy," as the need of the hour. https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-india-in-a-potentially-unique-diplomatic-position-1789117524076/embed Addressing the assembly, he stated, "BRICS today represents almost one-fourth of global trade. India is an important pillar of intra-BRICS trade. Engineering goods and electronics account for the largest segment of India's manufactured exports. India is also known as the pharmacy of the world. We see BRICS as an important market for these and other products that India seeks to take to the world as a trusted partner." WATCH VIDEO HERE-

Union Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed the BRICS delegation, emphasising economic diplomacy, market access, regulatory simplification, and India's role as a trusted exporter and the world's pharmacy.

‘Economic diplomacy need of the hour’: Piyush Goyal pushes for simplified trade at BRICS Business Forum

The BRICS Summit 2026 has commenced with the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi. EAM S Jaishankar, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal are among the speakers at the forum.

BRICS Summit 2026: EAM Jaishankar, Piyush Goyal among speakers at BRICS Business Forum 

The BRICS Business Forum is underway in the national capital as part of the BRICS Summit 2026, bringing together business and government leaders from several member countries. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal are among the key speakers at the forum. Addressing the opening session, BRICS Business Council Chair Jai Shroff said India’s BRICS chairmanship under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has centred on four priorities, Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability, which he said are equally significant for governments and businesses.&nbsp;“India’s BRICS chairmanship under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been built around four priorities: Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability. These are important priorities for the government, but equally relevant for business,” Shroff said while addressing the gathering here. Shroff also called for a broader understanding of BRICS, saying the grouping should be viewed not simply as a collection of major markets but as an interconnected economic network.&nbsp;“We should not be looking at BRICS as a group of large markets but as an economic network where our strengths can reinforce one another. A resource in one BRICS economy can support manufacturing in another. A technology developed in one market can find scale in another. Capital can find projects and business can find new partners and customers across our economy,” Shorff said.The BRICS Business Forum serves as the grouping’s principal platform for private-sector engagement. It is held annually in the country hosting the BRICS Summit, shortly before the Leaders’ meeting. The forum brings together leading business representatives, government ministers and heads of state to deliberate on key issues including trade, investment, finance, technology and sustainable economic development, all of which have a bearing on the BRICS agenda.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cheat-like-hell-trump-urges-gop-voters-to-turn-out-in-midterm-elections-1789096963239">'Cheat like hell': Trump urges GOP voters to turn out in midterm elections</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BRICS Summit 2026 commences with BRICS Business Forum; EAM Dr S Jaishankar, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal among the speakers <a href="https://t.co/zRIWcYeCGe">pic.twitter.com/zRIWcYeCGe</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2098263030173970723?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The platform also plays an important role in shaping the economic priorities of the grouping. It provides an opportunity for the BRICS Business Council to present its recommendations and private-sector perspectives to policymakers. Outcomes from the Business Forum, along with recommendations from the Business Council, can feed into BRICS Summit declarations and subsequent programmes of work. These include efforts to increase intra-BRICS trade and investment, strengthen the digital economy, support MSMEs, promote standards cooperation and deepen value-chain integration.&nbsp;The main programme of the BRICS Summit is scheduled to begin on September 12, when leaders are expected to discuss initiatives under India’s presidency and ways to further strengthen the BRICS strategic partnership. India’s BRICS chairship has placed emphasis on international cooperation in areas including trade, digital technology, finance, energy security and reform of global governance institutions.&nbsp;The summit is also expected to focus on resilient global supply chains, cross-border payment integration, increased use of national currencies, MSME development, digital trade and artificial intelligence. Energy security, climate resilience, development finance, expansion of the New Development Bank and reforms of multilateral financial and political institutions are also expected to feature prominently in the discussions.

BRICS Business Forum 2026 begins in Delhi with leaders discussing trade, investment, digital economy, AI, energy security and India’s BRICS priorities

The BRICS Business Forum is underway in the national capital as part of the BRICS Summit 2026, bringing together business and government leaders from several member countries. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Union Minister Piyush Goyal and Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal are among the key speakers at the forum. Addressing the opening session, BRICS Business Council Chair Jai Shroff said India’s BRICS chairmanship under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has centred on four priorities, Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability, which he said are equally significant for governments and businesses. “India’s BRICS chairmanship under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been built around four priorities: Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability. These are important priorities for the government, but equally relevant for business,” Shroff said while addressing the gathering here. Shroff also called for a broader understanding of BRICS, saying the grouping should be viewed not simply as a collection of major markets but as an interconnected economic network. “We should not be looking at BRICS as a group of large markets but as an economic network where our strengths can reinforce one another. A resource in one BRICS economy can support manufacturing in another. A technology developed in one market can find scale in another. Capital can find projects and business can find new partners and customers across our economy,” Shorff said. The BRICS Business Forum serves as the grouping’s principal platform for private-sector engagement. It is held annually in the country hosting the BRICS Summit, shortly before the Leaders’ meeting. The forum brings together leading business representatives, government ministers and heads of state to deliberate on key issues including trade, investment, finance, technology and sustainable economic development, all of which have a bearing on the BRICS agenda. Also Read: 'Cheat like hell': Trump urges GOP voters to turn out in midterm elections

BRICS Business Forum 2026 begins in Delhi with leaders discussing trade, investment, digital economy, AI, energy security and India’s BRICS priorities

BRICS Business Forum begins in New Delhi as focus on trade, AI, finance and energy security. What to expect

Russian president Vladimir Putin has arrived in New Delhi to attend the BRICS 2026 Summit hosted by India. The summit brings together leaders from major emerging economies to discuss trade, finance, global governance and geopolitical challenges. Key issues on the agenda include BRICS expansion, economic cooperation and strengthening the global south. Putin's visit comes amid heightened global tensions and growing interest in the BRICS bloc. Several bilateral meetings are also expected on the sidelines of the summit.


BRICS 2026: World leaders arrive in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed confidence that the BRICS Summit in New Delhi will lead to positive and meaningful discussions on key global issues. Leaders from around the world are set to gather for the September 12–13 summit with a focus on global welfare.

 PM Modi calls for 'positive, meaningful' talks ahead of BRICS Summit

India is set to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12–13, bringing together leaders from BRICS member and partner countries. With India holding the 2026 BRICS chairship, the summit will focus on resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability as the expanded bloc seeks a bigger role in the global order.


BRICS Summit 2026: India to host 18th BRICS Summit on Sept 12 & 13 in New Delhi

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in New Delhi for the BRICS Summit 2026. Putin is set to hold talks with PM Narendra Modi and a series of bilateral meetings during his visit.

BRICS Summit 2026: Putin arrives in Delhi for BRICS summit, PM Modi meet ahead

From Bihar’s earthy and traditional sattu to the coffee cultivated in the hills of Koraput in Odisha and Gujarat’s intricate handicrafts, India’s rich regional diversity is being showcased alongside high-level diplomacy at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. As journalists from India and around the world arrive in the national capital for the September 12-13 summit, the BRICS media kit is offering more than briefing material. It provides an introduction to India’s diverse traditions, regional produce and centuries-old artisanal skills.&nbsp;The initiative, led by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), aims to give international media a glimpse of India through products sourced from different states, bringing together elements of the country’s culinary and cultural heritage. Speaking to news agency ANI about the concept behind the media kits and preparations for the summit, Vasudev Ravi, OSD, PR, MEA, said the initiative was intended to showcase India’s diversity and communicate what he described as the ‘India Story’.&nbsp;"This is an opportunity for us to showcase the India Story and highlight aspects to our colleagues in the media as well as those who are joining us from the international press. So, we partnered with three state governments, and our effort has been to showcase traditional foods," Ravi said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/brics-summit-2026-from-pm-museum-to-modern-art-delhi-rolls-out-a-cultural-welcome-for-leaders-family-members-1789092849925">BRICS Summit 2026: From PM museum to modern art, Delhi rolls out a cultural welcome for leaders' family members</a>&nbsp;The specially curated selection features products from three distinct regions of the country. Bihar has contributed sattu and makhana, Odisha is represented by coffee from Koraput, while Gujarat has brought a selection of traditional handicrafts highlighting its rich craftsmanship. "We have had our colleagues at the Bihar Government contribute 'sattu', the traditional drink, and 'makhana', which is an extremely popular produce from Bihar. We have partnered with the Government of Odisha to showcase coffee from Koraput, and we have also partnered with the Gujarat government, which has contributed various kinds of handicrafts to showcase the skills and handicrafts that are available in the state. It is our effort to showcase India and to tell the India Story," he added.&nbsp;Sattu, traditionally consumed as a drink and closely associated with Bihar, reflects the state’s distinctive culinary traditions. Makhana, meanwhile, represents one of Bihar’s well-known agricultural and food products. Coffee from Koraput offers international visitors a taste of Odisha’s growing coffee sector, while Gujarat’s handicrafts highlight the state’s longstanding traditions of artistry and craftsmanship.&nbsp;Together, the products turn the BRICS media kit into a compact representation of India’s regional identities, giving visiting journalists an opportunity to experience the country through its food, local produce and traditional crafts.

BRICS Summit media kits showcase India’s cultural diversity through Bihar sattu and makhana, Koraput coffee and Gujarat handicrafts

From Bihar’s earthy and traditional sattu to the coffee cultivated in the hills of Koraput in Odisha and Gujarat’s intricate handicrafts, India’s rich regional diversity is being showcased alongside high-level diplomacy at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. As journalists from India and around the world arrive in the national capital for the September 12-13 summit, the BRICS media kit is offering more than briefing material. It provides an introduction to India’s diverse traditions, regional produce and centuries-old artisanal skills. The initiative, led by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), aims to give international media a glimpse of India through products sourced from different states, bringing together elements of the country’s culinary and cultural heritage. Speaking to news agency ANI about the concept behind the media kits and preparations for the summit, Vasudev Ravi, OSD, PR, MEA, said the initiative was intended to showcase India’s diversity and communicate what he described as the ‘India Story’. "This is an opportunity for us to showcase the India Story and highlight aspects to our colleagues in the media as well as those who are joining us from the international press. So, we partnered with three state governments, and our effort has been to showcase traditional foods," Ravi said. Also Read: BRICS Summit 2026: From PM museum to modern art, Delhi rolls out a cultural welcome for leaders' family members The specially curated selection features products from three distinct regions of the country. Bihar has contributed sattu and makhana, Odisha is represented by coffee from Koraput, while Gujarat has brought a selection of traditional handicrafts highlighting its rich craftsmanship. "We have had our colleagues at the Bihar Government contribute 'sattu', the traditional drink, and 'makhana', which is an extremely popular produce from Bihar. We have partnered with the Government of Odisha to showcase coffee from Koraput, and we have also partnered with the Gujarat government, which has contributed various kinds of handicrafts to showcase the skills and handicrafts that are available in the state. It is our effort to showcase India and to tell the India Story," he added. Sattu, traditionally consumed as a drink and closely associated with Bihar, reflects the state’s distinctive culinary traditions. Makhana, meanwhile, represents one of Bihar’s well-known agricultural and food products. Coffee from Koraput offers international visitors a taste of Odisha’s growing coffee sector, while Gujarat’s handicrafts highlight the state’s longstanding traditions of artistry and craftsmanship. Together, the products turn the BRICS media kit into a compact representation of India’s regional identities, giving visiting journalists an opportunity to experience the country through its food, local produce and traditional crafts.

BRICS Summit media kits showcase India’s diversity with Bihar sattu, makhana, Koraput coffee and Gujarat handicrafts for journalists covering the summit

From Bihar’s sattu to Koraput coffee, here's what is inside the BRICS media kit

New Delhi is preparing to roll out a cultural red carpet for the visiting spouses and family members of BRICS leaders, with an extensive itinerary covering India’s political heritage, modern art and traditional crafts. The cultural programme has been planned alongside the three-day BRICS summit beginning September 11. The visitors are scheduled to explore some of Delhi’s most prominent cultural institutions, including the National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy, Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) and the Central Cottage Industries Emporium.<h2>BRICS Leaders’ family members to visit key Delhi landmarks</h2>The visiting dignitaries are staying at three prominent Delhi hotels. The spouse of Burundi’s President is staying at The Lalit, while the spouse of the Philippines President is staying at Taj Mahal Hotel. The daughter and son-in-law of Iran’s President, along with the spouse of Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, are staying at The Oberoi. Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya is expected to be among the first major stops on the itinerary.&nbsp;“A designated museum official will accompany the visitors and take them through exhibits documenting India’s political journey and the lives and contributions of its prime ministers. The group will also visit the National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy, where a special BRICS Bazaar is being organised on September 12. The bazaar will feature crafts and products from BRICS countries, turning the event into a showcase of the grouping’s cultural diversity,” he said, asking not to be named. The visit to the National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy is expected to highlight India’s traditional craftsmanship while also providing a platform to showcase cultural products from across the expanded BRICS grouping.<h2>Lunch at Indian Accent, visit to NGMA</h2>The itinerary also includes lunch at Indian Accent at The Lodhi, followed by a visit to Jaipur House, which houses the National Gallery of Modern Art. “He added that a lunch has been planned at Indian Accent at The Lodhi, followed by a visit to Jaipur House, which houses the NGMA. “The NGMA visit will give the guests a glimpse of India’s modern and contemporary artistic traditions,” the officer added.” The NGMA stop will give the visiting family members an opportunity to experience India’s modern and contemporary art traditions. Another major stop on the programme is the Central Cottage Industries Emporium at Jawahar Vyapar Bhawan.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vladimir-putin-in-new-delhi-for-brics-summit-russia-india-defence-energy-and-nuclear-ties-in-focus-ahead-of-meeting-with-pm-modi-1789091415829">Vladimir Putin in New Delhi for BRICS Summit: Russia-India defence, energy and nuclear ties in focus ahead of meeting with PM Modi</a><h2>Cottage emporium to close temporarily for VIP visit</h2>The Central Cottage Industries Emporium is expected to remain closed to regular customers for several hours to facilitate the VIP visit. The spouses are scheduled to arrive at around 2pm, with the programme expected to continue until approximately 4pm. Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened in view of the high-profile movements. Multiple quick reaction teams (QRTs), several companies of Delhi Police and ambulances are being deployed at key locations and along the designated routes.The additional security deployment is aimed at ensuring smooth movement of the visiting dignitaries while maintaining emergency-response preparedness.&nbsp;Officials have also kept the itinerary flexible in case of rain or changes in movement requirements. The Cottage Emporium visit could be adjusted depending on weather conditions. “The carefully planned programme is more than a ceremonial diversion. It offers India an opportunity to showcase its political heritage, contemporary art and traditional craftsmanship to representatives of the expanded Brics grouping,” said the second officer cited above. The programme is expected to serve as both a cultural showcase and a diplomatic engagement, giving the visiting spouses and family members a closer look at India’s political history, artistic traditions and handicraft heritage during the BRICS summit.

BRICS leaders’ spouses and family members will visit Delhi museums, NGMA and craft centres as India showcases its culture during the summit

New Delhi is preparing to roll out a cultural red carpet for the visiting spouses and family members of BRICS leaders, with an extensive itinerary covering India’s political heritage, modern art and traditional crafts. The cultural programme has been planned alongside the three-day BRICS summit beginning September 11. The visitors are scheduled to explore some of Delhi’s most prominent cultural institutions, including the National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy, Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya, the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) and the Central Cottage Industries Emporium. BRICS Leaders’ family members to visit key Delhi landmarks The visiting dignitaries are staying at three prominent Delhi hotels. The spouse of Burundi’s President is staying at The Lalit, while the spouse of the Philippines President is staying at Taj Mahal Hotel. The daughter and son-in-law of Iran’s President, along with the spouse of Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, are staying at The Oberoi. Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya is expected to be among the first major stops on the itinerary. “A designated museum official will accompany the visitors and take them through exhibits documenting India’s political journey and the lives and contributions of its prime ministers. The group will also visit the National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy, where a special BRICS Bazaar is being organised on September 12. The bazaar will feature crafts and products from BRICS countries, turning the event into a showcase of the grouping’s cultural diversity,” he said, asking not to be named. The visit to the National Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy is expected to highlight India’s traditional craftsmanship while also providing a platform to showcase cultural products from across the expanded BRICS grouping. Lunch at Indian Accent, visit to NGMA The itinerary also includes lunch at Indian Accent at The Lodhi, followed by a visit to Jaipur House, which houses the National Gallery of Modern Art. “He added that a lunch has been planned at Indian Accent at The Lodhi, followed by a visit to Jaipur House, which houses the NGMA. “The NGMA visit will give the guests a glimpse of India’s modern and contemporary artistic traditions,” the officer added.” The NGMA stop will give the visiting family members an opportunity to experience India’s modern and contemporary art traditions. Another major stop on the programme is the Central Cottage Industries Emporium at Jawahar Vyapar Bhawan. Also Read: Vladimir Putin in New Delhi for BRICS Summit: Russia-India defence, energy and nuclear ties in focus ahead of meeting with PM Modi Cottage emporium to close temporarily for VIP visit The Central Cottage Industries Emporium is expected to remain closed to regular customers for several hours to facilitate the VIP visit. The spouses are scheduled to arrive at around 2pm, with the programme expected to continue until approximately 4pm. Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened in view of the high-profile movements. Multiple quick reaction teams (QRTs), several companies of Delhi Police and ambulances are being deployed at key locations and along the designated routes. The additional security deployment is aimed at ensuring smooth movement of the visiting dignitaries while maintaining emergency-response preparedness. Officials have also kept the itinerary flexible in case of rain or changes in movement requirements. The Cottage Emporium visit could be adjusted depending on weather conditions. “The carefully planned programme is more than a ceremonial diversion. It offers India an opportunity to showcase its political heritage, contemporary art and traditional craftsmanship to representatives of the expanded Brics grouping,” said the second officer cited above. The programme is expected to serve as both a cultural showcase and a diplomatic engagement, giving the visiting spouses and family members a closer look at India’s political history, artistic traditions and handicraft heritage during the BRICS summit.

BRICS leaders’ family members will tour New Delhi’s museums, art galleries and craft centres as India showcases its heritage during the summit

BRICS Summit 2026: From PM museum to modern art, Delhi rolls out a cultural welcome for leaders' family members

Security has been tightened at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi ahead of the BRICS Summit 2026. The venue is being secured as India prepares to host global leaders for the two-day summit.

New Delhi: Heavy security deployed at Bharat Mandapam ahead of BRICS summit 

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in New Delhi to attend the BRICS summit and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the two leaders expected to discuss ways to deepen cooperation in defence, energy and technology. Modi and Putin last met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek last week. During their meeting, the Prime Minister urged Putin to move from an ‘endless war towards the end of war’, in a reference to the Russia-Ukraine conflict that started five years ago following Moscow’s full-scale invasion.&nbsp;"We have to move from a situation of 'endless war' to 'end of war'... It is humanity's wish that the end of this war happens as soon as possible," PM Modi said. The Modi-Putin meeting, scheduled for Friday, is expected to cover several issues of strategic importance to both countries, including defence cooperation and proposed upgrades to the BrahMos missile system. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said earlier this week that India and Russia were discussing upgrades to the BrahMos missile. He also said Moscow remained committed to completing the pending deliveries of the S-400 air defence systems, while the two sides were discussing the proposed supply of Su-57 fighter jets to India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-putin-xi-to-pezeshkian-who-is-coming-when-for-brics-summit-in-new-delhi-check-full-schedule-1789062121834">From Putin, Xi to Pezeshkian: Who is coming when for BRICS Summit in New Delhi? Check full schedule</a><h2>Watch the video of Putin arriving in New Delhi</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in India ahead of the BRICS Summit 2026. During his visit, he will also hold talks with PM Narendra Modi and have a series of bilateral meetings. <a href="https://t.co/pax5EW70Yu">pic.twitter.com/pax5EW70Yu</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2098168103117169135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

India and Russia are also expected to discuss New Delhi’s plans to establish new civil nuclear reactors. Peskov said negotiations on the proposed projects would be held between the two countries. Putin will also participate in the two-day BRICS summit being hosted by New Delhi. During his visit, the Russian President will address the Plenary Session of the annual BRICS Business Forum before visiting the Innoprom exhibition with PM Modi.&nbsp;On the sidelines of the summit, Putin is also scheduled to meet several international leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. However, Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is visiting India after a gap of seven years, are not scheduled to hold a separate full-format bilateral meeting.&nbsp;Xi and Modi are set to hold talks on Saturday evening, with trade and investment expected to feature prominently in their discussions. The two leaders are also expected to review the broader situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Meanwhile, PM Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday.

Putin arrives in Delhi for BRICS 2026. PM Modi talks with Putin will focus on BrahMos, S-400, Su-57, defence, energy and nuclear cooperation

Russian President Vladimir Putin has arrived in New Delhi to attend the BRICS summit and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the two leaders expected to discuss ways to deepen cooperation in defence, energy and technology. Modi and Putin last met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek last week. During their meeting, the Prime Minister urged Putin to move from an ‘endless war towards the end of war’, in a reference to the Russia-Ukraine conflict that started five years ago following Moscow’s full-scale invasion. "We have to move from a situation of 'endless war' to 'end of war'... It is humanity's wish that the end of this war happens as soon as possible," PM Modi said. The Modi-Putin meeting, scheduled for Friday, is expected to cover several issues of strategic importance to both countries, including defence cooperation and proposed upgrades to the BrahMos missile system. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said earlier this week that India and Russia were discussing upgrades to the BrahMos missile. He also said Moscow remained committed to completing the pending deliveries of the S-400 air defence systems, while the two sides were discussing the proposed supply of Su-57 fighter jets to India. Also Read: From Putin, Xi to Pezeshkian: Who is coming when for BRICS Summit in New Delhi? Check full schedule Watch the video of Putin arriving in New Delhi

Russia President Vladimir Putin arrived in New Delhi for BRICS as meeting with PM Modi to focus on defence, BrahMos, S-400, Su-57, energy and nuclear cooperation

Vladimir Putin in New Delhi for BRICS Summit: Russia-India defence, energy and nuclear ties in focus ahead of meeting with PM Modi

As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the BRICS Business Forum is set to bring together senior government officials, business leaders and corporate executives from across the expanded grouping ahead of the main leaders' meeting.&nbsp;The business forum will take place on September 11, a day before the main BRICS Summit begins on September 12. It will provide a platform for policymakers and private sector representatives to discuss trade, investment, supply chains, agriculture, digital economy and cooperation among BRICS countries.&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin is also set to attend the forum during his September 11 to September 13 visit to India. According to the Kremlin, Putin will address the plenary session of the annual BRICS Business Forum on September 11.&nbsp;Putin is also scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the same day. The two leaders will also visit the INNOPROM exhibition, organised by the industry and trade ministries of Russia and India.&nbsp;"On September 11, Vladimir Putin will address the plenary session of the annual BRICS Business Forum, which traditionally precedes the summit and serves as an important platform for dialogue among business representatives from BRICS countries. On the same day, the President of Russia will hold a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and, together with him, visit the INNOPROM exhibition, organised by the two countries’ ministries of industry and trade," the Kremlin said.<h3>Who will attend the BRICS Business Forum?</h3>According to the events listed on the BRICS Business Forum website, the programme includes an opening session, five thematic panels and a leaders' session. The forum will feature government ministers, business council representatives, corporate executives and leaders of the BRICS Women's Business Alliance.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-putin-xi-to-pezeshkian-who-is-coming-when-for-brics-summit-in-new-delhi-check-full-schedule-1789062121834">From Putin, Xi to Pezeshkian: Who is coming when for BRICS Summit in New Delhi? Check full schedule</a><h3>Opening Session</h3>The opening session will feature senior government officials and business leaders, including:&nbsp;Piyush Goyal, Commerce and Industry Minister, Government of India.&nbsp;S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister, Government of India.&nbsp;Maxim Reshetnikov, Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.&nbsp;Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Government of India.&nbsp;Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary, Department of Commerce, Government of India.&nbsp;Jai Shroff, Chair, BRICS Business Council and Chairman and Group CEO, UPL Ltd.&nbsp;Avarna Jain, Chairperson, BRICS Women's Business Alliance and Vice Chairperson, Saregama India Ltd.Nirmal K Minda, President, ASSOCHAM and Chairman, Uno Minda Ltd.&nbsp;R Mukundan, President, CII and Managing Director and CEO, Tata Chemicals Ltd.Anant Goenka, Member, BRICS Business Council, President, FICCI and Vice Chairman, RPG Group.<h3>Panel 1: Strengthening trade and building resilient supply chains</h3>The first panel will examine ways to reduce non tariff barriers and build more resilient supply chains across BRICS economies.&nbsp;The session will feature:&nbsp;Sharvil Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences Ltd, India&nbsp;José Serrador, Global Vice President, Embraer, Brazil&nbsp;Mtho Xulu, President, South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, South Africa&nbsp;Beat Simon, COO, Global Logistics, DP World, UAE&nbsp;Luciana Brum, Head of Foreign Relations, Vale, Brazil&nbsp;Harsh Pati Singhania, Chair, International Chamber of Commerce&nbsp;Parikshit Luthra, Director, Policy and Government Partnerships, The Convergence Foundation, is listed as the moderator.<h3>Panel 2: Agriculture and agri tech</h3>The second panel will focus on promoting agricultural products and agri tech startups across BRICS economies.&nbsp;The session will feature:&nbsp;Chen Gang, Vice President, COFCO Corporation and Chair, BRICS Business Council Agri business Working Group, China&nbsp;Andrey Guryev, Chair, BRICS Business Council Russia and President, Russian Association of Fertilizer Producers, Russia&nbsp;Busisiwe Mabuza, Chair, BRICS Business Council South Africa, South Africa&nbsp;Sagar Kaushik, Chair, BRICS Business Council Agri business Working Group and President, UPL Limited, India&nbsp;Islam Salem, CEO, Eden Investment and Agricultural Development, Egypt&nbsp;Ahmad Al Hassan, CEO and MD, GCC Region, DP World, UAE&nbsp;Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Member, BRICS Business Council and Chairman, Sun International Ltd, India, is listed as the moderator.<h3>Panel 3: Intra BRICS trade in services</h3>The third panel will discuss new pathways for expanding trade in services among BRICS economies.The session will feature:&nbsp;Aryaman Vikram Birla, Director, Aditya Birla Group and Member, BRICS Business Council, India&nbsp;Yu Xubo, Chairman, China General Technology Group Holding Co Ltd and Member, BRICS Business Council, China&nbsp;Anindya N Bakrie, Chair, BRICS Business Council Indonesia, Chairman, KADIN and CEO, Bakrie Brothers Tbk, Indonesia&nbsp;Majid Ghassemi, Chair, BRICS Business Council Iran and CEO, Bank of Pasargad, Iran&nbsp;Kenenisa Lemi, Secretary General, Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations, Ethiopia&nbsp;John Denton, Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce&nbsp;Nilachal Mishra, Partner and Head, Government and Public Sector, KPMG India, is listed as the moderator.<h3>Panel 4: Women in business</h3>The fourth panel will focus on women in business and their role in building partnerships across BRICS economies.&nbsp;The session will feature:&nbsp;Monica Monteiro, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Brazil and Senior Executive Advisor, CNBC Brazil, Brazil&nbsp;Zhao Haiying, Chairperson, BRICS WBA China, China&nbsp;Marianne Ghali, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Egypt and Managing Director, Qalaa Holdings, Egypt&nbsp;Zahra Rahaie, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Iran and Founder and CEO, Navak Chemipakhsh, Iran&nbsp;Anna Nesterova, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Russia and Founder, Palekh Watch, Russia&nbsp;Lebogang Zulu, Chairperson, BRICS WBA South Africa and CEO, AV Group, South Africa&nbsp;Feryal Ahmadi, Chairperson, BRICS WBA UAE and Deputy CEO and COO, DMCC, UAE&nbsp;Avarna Jain, Chairperson, BRICS WBA and Vice Chairperson, Saregama India Ltd, is listed as the moderator.<h3>Panel 5: Digital economy and innovation</h3>The fifth panel will focus on the digital economy and innovation across the BRICS grouping.The session will feature:&nbsp;Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder and CEO, Paytm, India&nbsp;Alexander Vedyakhin, First Deputy Chairman of Executive Board, Sberbank, Russia&nbsp;Shahab Javanmardy, CEO, FANAP ICT Holding Co, Iran&nbsp;Ziaad Suleman, Chair, Digital Economy Working Group, South Africa Chapter, BRICS Business Council, South Africa&nbsp;Alison Aguiar Basso, Head, Tokyo, Banco do Brasil, Brazil&nbsp;Tejpreet Singh Chopra, Founder and CEO, Bharat Light &amp; Power Group, is listed as the moderator.<h3>Leaders' Session</h3>The BRICS Business Forum programme also includes a Leaders' Session featuring heads of state from BRICS member countries.&nbsp;Several heads of state are expected to participate in the high level session as part of the wider BRICS Summit. However, the names of the participating leaders have not yet been confirmed on the BRICS Business Forum website.&nbsp;The main BRICS Summit will be held in New Delhi on September 12 and September 13 under India's chairship, following the business forum on September 11.

The BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi will bring together Russian President Vladimir Putin, senior Indian ministers, business council leaders and top corporate executives ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.

As India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the BRICS Business Forum is set to bring together senior government officials, business leaders and corporate executives from across the expanded grouping ahead of the main leaders' meeting. The business forum will take place on September 11, a day before the main BRICS Summit begins on September 12. It will provide a platform for policymakers and private sector representatives to discuss trade, investment, supply chains, agriculture, digital economy and cooperation among BRICS countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin is also set to attend the forum during his September 11 to September 13 visit to India. According to the Kremlin, Putin will address the plenary session of the annual BRICS Business Forum on September 11. Putin is also scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the same day. The two leaders will also visit the INNOPROM exhibition, organised by the industry and trade ministries of Russia and India. "On September 11, Vladimir Putin will address the plenary session of the annual BRICS Business Forum, which traditionally precedes the summit and serves as an important platform for dialogue among business representatives from BRICS countries. On the same day, the President of Russia will hold a bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and, together with him, visit the INNOPROM exhibition, organised by the two countries’ ministries of industry and trade," the Kremlin said. Who will attend the BRICS Business Forum? According to the events listed on the BRICS Business Forum website, the programme includes an opening session, five thematic panels and a leaders' session. The forum will feature government ministers, business council representatives, corporate executives and leaders of the BRICS Women's Business Alliance. Also Read: From Putin, Xi to Pezeshkian: Who is coming when for BRICS Summit in New Delhi? Check full schedule Opening Session The opening session will feature senior government officials and business leaders, including: Piyush Goyal, Commerce and Industry Minister, Government of India. S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister, Government of India. Maxim Reshetnikov, Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation. Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary, Department of Commerce, Government of India. Jai Shroff, Chair, BRICS Business Council and Chairman and Group CEO, UPL Ltd. Avarna Jain, Chairperson, BRICS Women's Business Alliance and Vice Chairperson, Saregama India Ltd. Nirmal K Minda, President, ASSOCHAM and Chairman, Uno Minda Ltd. R Mukundan, President, CII and Managing Director and CEO, Tata Chemicals Ltd. Anant Goenka, Member, BRICS Business Council, President, FICCI and Vice Chairman, RPG Group. Panel 1: Strengthening trade and building resilient supply chains The first panel will examine ways to reduce non tariff barriers and build more resilient supply chains across BRICS economies. The session will feature: Sharvil Patel, Managing Director, Zydus Lifesciences Ltd, India José Serrador, Global Vice President, Embraer, Brazil Mtho Xulu, President, South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry, South Africa Beat Simon, COO, Global Logistics, DP World, UAE Luciana Brum, Head of Foreign Relations, Vale, Brazil Harsh Pati Singhania, Chair, International Chamber of Commerce Parikshit Luthra, Director, Policy and Government Partnerships, The Convergence Foundation, is listed as the moderator. Panel 2: Agriculture and agri tech The second panel will focus on promoting agricultural products and agri tech startups across BRICS economies. The session will feature: Chen Gang, Vice President, COFCO Corporation and Chair, BRICS Business Council Agri business Working Group, China Andrey Guryev, Chair, BRICS Business Council Russia and President, Russian Association of Fertilizer Producers, Russia Busisiwe Mabuza, Chair, BRICS Business Council South Africa, South Africa Sagar Kaushik, Chair, BRICS Business Council Agri business Working Group and President, UPL Limited, India Islam Salem, CEO, Eden Investment and Agricultural Development, Egypt Ahmad Al Hassan, CEO and MD, GCC Region, DP World, UAE Vikramjit Singh Sahney, Member, BRICS Business Council and Chairman, Sun International Ltd, India, is listed as the moderator. Panel 3: Intra BRICS trade in services The third panel will discuss new pathways for expanding trade in services among BRICS economies. The session will feature: Aryaman Vikram Birla, Director, Aditya Birla Group and Member, BRICS Business Council, India Yu Xubo, Chairman, China General Technology Group Holding Co Ltd and Member, BRICS Business Council, China Anindya N Bakrie, Chair, BRICS Business Council Indonesia, Chairman, KADIN and CEO, Bakrie Brothers Tbk, Indonesia Majid Ghassemi, Chair, BRICS Business Council Iran and CEO, Bank of Pasargad, Iran Kenenisa Lemi, Secretary General, Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations, Ethiopia John Denton, Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce Nilachal Mishra, Partner and Head, Government and Public Sector, KPMG India, is listed as the moderator. Panel 4: Women in business The fourth panel will focus on women in business and their role in building partnerships across BRICS economies. The session will feature: Monica Monteiro, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Brazil and Senior Executive Advisor, CNBC Brazil, Brazil Zhao Haiying, Chairperson, BRICS WBA China, China Marianne Ghali, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Egypt and Managing Director, Qalaa Holdings, Egypt Zahra Rahaie, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Iran and Founder and CEO, Navak Chemipakhsh, Iran Anna Nesterova, Chairperson, BRICS WBA Russia and Founder, Palekh Watch, Russia Lebogang Zulu, Chairperson, BRICS WBA South Africa and CEO, AV Group, South Africa Feryal Ahmadi, Chairperson, BRICS WBA UAE and Deputy CEO and COO, DMCC, UAE Avarna Jain, Chairperson, BRICS WBA and Vice Chairperson, Saregama India Ltd, is listed as the moderator. Panel 5: Digital economy and innovation The fifth panel will focus on the digital economy and innovation across the BRICS grouping. The session will feature: Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder and CEO, Paytm, India Alexander Vedyakhin, First Deputy Chairman of Executive Board, Sberbank, Russia Shahab Javanmardy, CEO, FANAP ICT Holding Co, Iran Ziaad Suleman, Chair, Digital Economy Working Group, South Africa Chapter, BRICS Business Council, South Africa Alison Aguiar Basso, Head, Tokyo, Banco do Brasil, Brazil Tejpreet Singh Chopra, Founder and CEO, Bharat Light & Power Group, is listed as the moderator. Leaders' Session The BRICS Business Forum programme also includes a Leaders' Session featuring heads of state from BRICS member countries. Several heads of state are expected to participate in the high level session as part of the wider BRICS Summit. However, the names of the participating leaders have not yet been confirmed on the BRICS Business Forum website. The main BRICS Summit will be held in New Delhi on September 12 and September 13 under India's chairship, following the business forum on September 11.

The BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi will bring together Russian President Vladimir Putin, senior Indian ministers, business council leaders and top corporate executives ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit.

Who will attend BRICS Business Forum? Putin, Goyal, Jaishankar among key names

India is set to host the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit and BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi. The summit is expected to be attended by several prominent world leaders from about 30 BRICS member and partner nations. Heads of international organisations and business representatives from BRICS countries are also expected to be present at the meetings. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has released the official list of participants for the BRICS Summit 2026, along with their expected time of arrival in New Delhi.<h2>When is Putin arriving in New Delhi?</h2>Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to arrive in New Delhi on Friday (Sep 11). He will land at Air Force Station Palam at 1:15 am. His visit to India for the BRICS Summit is closely watched, given the uncertain geopolitics in the backdrop of the war in Ukraine. He is expected to hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Russian leader’s trip marks the second visit to India within a year, underlining the partnership between New Delhi and Moscow.<h2>When is Xi Jinping arriving in New Delhi?</h2>Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on September 12 at 12:25 pm at Air Force Station Palam. His participation would make the summit particularly significant for India-China ties, with a possible meeting between Xi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to draw attention on the sidelines.<h2>Iranian President to arrive in New Delhi</h2>Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to arrive at Air Force Station Palam at 2 pm on Friday (Sep 11). His visit is significant as war continues between the United States and Iran. The conflict has threatened security in the Middle East region and rattled the global energy market, sending oil prices to record high levels.Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi is also expected to arrive at the summit and land later on September 11 at 5:35 pm.<h2>Other BRICS leaders</h2>Brazilian Foreign Affairs Minister Mauro Vieira has arrived in New Delhi on Thursday (Sep 10) night through Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport. He will represent Brazil at the summit, with the country being one of the five founding members of BRICS.South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to reach Delhi at 9:05 am on Friday (Sep 11) through Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport. South Africa is one of the original BRICS expansion members, having joined the grouping in 2011.<h2>Key international figures</h2>The summit will also see the arrival of senior representatives from major international institutions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is scheduled to reach Delhi at 1:25 pm on Friday (Sep 11). WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is expected later that night.WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and New Development Bank President Dilma Rousseff are also scheduled to attend, adding an important multilateral dimension to the summit.<h2>Full schedule of arrivals of world leaders released by MEA:</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Sr. No.</td><td>Country/ International Organisation</td><td>Name of dignitary</td><td>Arrival Time/Flight</td></tr><tr><td>1.</td><td>Brazil</td><td>H.E. Mr. Mauro Vieira, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil</td><td>10th September, 2026 ETA: 2150 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>Russia</td><td>H.E. Mr. Vladimir Putin, President of Russian Federation</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 0115 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>WHO</td><td>Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 0410 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>AIIB</td><td>H.E. Ms. Zou Jiayi, President of AIIB</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 0825 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>Uruguay</td><td>H.E. Mr. Mario Lubetkin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 0845 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>South Africa</td><td>H.E. Mr. Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of Republic of South Africa</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 0905 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>Uganda</td><td>H.E. Ms. Jessica Alupo, Vice President of Republic of Uganda</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 0915 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>UNSG</td><td>H. E. Mr. Antonio Guterres, Secretary General of United Nations</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 1325 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>NDB</td><td>H.E. Ms. Dilma Rousseff, President of NDB</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 1400 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>Iran</td><td>H.E. Mr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 1400 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>11.</td><td>Nigeria</td><td>H.E. Mr. &nbsp;Sen. Kashim Shettima, Vice President of Federal Republic of Nigeria</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 1445 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>12.</td><td>Egypt</td><td>H.E. Mr. Abdel Fattah El-Sisi President of Arab Republic of Egypt</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 1735 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>13.</td><td>UAE</td><td>H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 1750 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>14.</td><td>Malaysia</td><td>H.E. Mr. Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 1840 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>15.</td><td>Ethiopia</td><td>H.E. Mr. Abiy Ahmed Ali, Prime Minister of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 1930 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>16.</td><td>Burundi</td><td>H.E. Mr. Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of Republic of Burundi</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 2045 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>17.</td><td>Indonesia</td><td>H.E. Mr. Prabowo Subianto, President of the Republic of Indonesia</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 2100 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>18.</td><td>Philippines</td><td>H.E. Mr. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., President of Republic of the Philippines</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 2200 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>19.</td><td>Cuba</td><td>H.E. Mr. Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 2250 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>20.</td><td>WTO</td><td>H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of WTO</td><td>11th September, 2026 ETA: 2335 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>21.</td><td>Belarus</td><td>H.E. Mr. Maxim Ryzhenkov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus</td><td>12th September, 2026 ETA: 0535 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>22.</td><td>Vietnam</td><td>H.E. Mr. Le Minh Hung, Prime Minister of Socialist Republic of Vietnam</td><td>12th September, 2026 ETA: 1105 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>23.</td><td>China</td><td>H.E. Mr. Xi Jinping, President of the People's Republic of China</td><td>12th September, 2026 ETA: 1225 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>24.</td><td>Bahrain</td><td>H.E. Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs the Kingdom of Bahrain</td><td>12th September, 2026 ETA: 1530 hrs (Terminal 3, IGI Airport, New Delhi)</td></tr><tr><td>25.</td><td>Kazakhstan</td><td>H.E. Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Republic of Kazakhstan</td><td>12th September, 2026 ETA: 1610 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr><tr><td>26.</td><td>Saudi Arabia</td><td>H.H. Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia</td><td>12th September, 2026 ETA: 2100 hrs (AFS Palam)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

India is set to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, with Putin, Xi Jinping, Pezeshkian, Sisi and other global leaders expected to attend. Here’s the full list of key arrivals and participants.

India is set to host the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit and BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi. The summit is expected to be attended by several prominent world leaders from about 30 BRICS member and partner nations. Heads of international organisations and business representatives from BRICS countries are also expected to be present at the meetings. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has released the official list of participants for the BRICS Summit 2026, along with their expected time of arrival in New Delhi. When is Putin arriving in New Delhi? Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to arrive in New Delhi on Friday (Sep 11). He will land at Air Force Station Palam at 1:15 am. His visit to India for the BRICS Summit is closely watched, given the uncertain geopolitics in the backdrop of the war in Ukraine. He is expected to hold talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Russian leader’s trip marks the second visit to India within a year, underlining the partnership between New Delhi and Moscow. When is Xi Jinping arriving in New Delhi? Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on September 12 at 12:25 pm at Air Force Station Palam. His participation would make the summit particularly significant for India-China ties, with a possible meeting between Xi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expected to draw attention on the sidelines. Iranian President to arrive in New Delhi Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to arrive at Air Force Station Palam at 2 pm on Friday (Sep 11). His visit is significant as war continues between the United States and Iran. The conflict has threatened security in the Middle East region and rattled the global energy market, sending oil prices to record high levels. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi is also expected to arrive at the summit and land later on September 11 at 5:35 pm. Other BRICS leaders Brazilian Foreign Affairs Minister Mauro Vieira has arrived in New Delhi on Thursday (Sep 10) night through Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport. He will represent Brazil at the summit, with the country being one of the five founding members of BRICS. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to reach Delhi at 9:05 am on Friday (Sep 11) through Terminal 3 of Indira Gandhi International Airport. South Africa is one of the original BRICS expansion members, having joined the grouping in 2011. Key international figures The summit will also see the arrival of senior representatives from major international institutions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is scheduled to reach Delhi at 1:25 pm on Friday (Sep 11). WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is expected later that night. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and New Development Bank President Dilma Rousseff are also scheduled to attend, adding an important multilateral dimension to the summit. Full schedule of arrivals of world leaders released by MEA:

India is set to host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, with Putin, Xi Jinping, Pezeshkian, Sisi and other global leaders expected to attend. Here’s the full list of key arrivals and participants.

From Putin, Xi to Pezeshkian: Who is coming when for BRICS Summit in New Delhi? Check full schedule

China has officially confirmed that President Xi Jinping will attend the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, 2026, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Xi Jinping’s visit marks his first trip to India in seven years and comes as New Delhi and Beijing work to stabilise ties after years of tensions. His presence at the BRICS summit is expected to put India-China relations, global geopolitics and the future of the expanded BRICS bloc firmly in focus.

A possible meeting between Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi could become one of the key diplomatic moments of the summit. The two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral ties, economic cooperation and broader regional and global issues.

Watch this report for the latest updates on Xi Jinping’s India visit, the BRICS Summit 2026 and the growing India-China diplomatic engagement.

 China Confirms Xi Jinping Will Attend Brics in New Delhi

Can BRICS emerge as a genuine counterweight to the West?

As India hosts the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the expanded grouping is attracting fresh attention as the global balance of power undergoes major changes. China, Russia, India and other BRICS members are pushing for greater cooperation across trade, finance, technology and the wider Global South.

The bloc has also discussed local-currency trade and alternative payment mechanisms, raising questions about the long-term dominance of Western-led financial systems. But BRICS is far from a unified anti-Western alliance. India continues to maintain strategic partnerships with the United States and other Western powers, while differences between BRICS members could make deeper coordination difficult.

With Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin and other leaders expected in New Delhi, the 2026 summit could reveal how far BRICS can actually go in reshaping the global power equation.

Can BRICS become a true counterweight to the West — or will its internal divisions limit its ambitions?

 Can Brics Emerge as a Counterweight to the West? 

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