India is set to host a high-stakes BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia and growing global uncertainty. Sergey Lavrov is expected to attend the summit in person, while Seyed Abbas Araghchi is also likely to participate. However, reports suggest Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi may skip the gathering, with Beijing instead sending its envoy to India. The BRICS meeting is expected to focus heavily on global security, multipolar diplomacy and the ongoing West Asia crisis.


India to Host BRICS FM's Meeting on May 14-15, Iran's FM Araghchi to Attend BRICS Meet 

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi will visit India's capital this week for a BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, as the grouping grapples with escalating tensions in West Asia and their ripple effects on global energy markets. The two-day gathering, scheduled for 14-15 May under India's BRICS chairmanship, comes at a sensitive moment. A fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States, in April following direct conflict involving Israeli and US strikes, remains under strain amid accusations of violations in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;&nbsp;Araghchi's visit, his first to India since the outbreak of the latest round of hostilities, shows Tehran's push for greater engagement within BRICS, where it has been a full member since 2024.The meeting is expected to focus on regional stability, multilateral cooperation, and economic resilience. Other participants are expected to include Russia's Sergey Lavrov, with China's Wang Yi absent due to clashing commitments- Trump's China visit.&nbsp;&nbsp;For India, the timing is delicate. New Delhi maintains strong energy ties with Iran, what it sees as "civilizational". But as EAM Jaishankar &amp; Iran FM Araghchi meet, focus will be on the movement of India-bound vessels via Hormuz. India imports a significant portion of its oil through the strait, making safe passage a priority.&nbsp;&nbsp;The BRICS meeting offers India a platform to advocate for de-escalation without alienating key partners. BRICS, expanded to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and others, has struggled to forge a unified stance on the West Asia conflict due to internal divisions, including between Iran and the UAE. A joint statement, if achieved, could signal the group's relevance as a voice for the Global South.&nbsp;&nbsp;For Tehran, engagement helps counter Western pressure and explore economic alternatives as it navigates ceasefire talks with Washington. Success in New Delhi could bolster preparations for the full BRICS leaders' summit later in 2026, but failure to bridge gaps risks exposing the group's fractures. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/starmer-delivers-major-speech-amid-uk-leadeship-crisis-from-nationalisation-of-british-steel-to-iran-war-what-he-said-1778480086499">Starmer delivers major speech amid UK leadership crisis: From nationalisation of British steel to Iran war — What he said</a>

The meeting is expected to focus on regional stability, multilateral cooperation, and economic resilience. Other participants are expected to include Russia's Sergey Lavrov, with China's Wang Yi absent due to clashing commitments- Trump's China visit. 

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi will visit India's capital this week for a BRICS foreign ministers' meeting, as the grouping grapples with escalating tensions in West Asia and their ripple effects on global energy markets. The two-day gathering, scheduled for 14-15 May under India's BRICS chairmanship, comes at a sensitive moment. A fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States, in April following direct conflict involving Israeli and US strikes, remains under strain amid accusations of violations in the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi's visit, his first to India since the outbreak of the latest round of hostilities, shows Tehran's push for greater engagement within BRICS, where it has been a full member since 2024. The meeting is expected to focus on regional stability, multilateral cooperation, and economic resilience. Other participants are expected to include Russia's Sergey Lavrov, with China's Wang Yi absent due to clashing commitments- Trump's China visit. For India, the timing is delicate. New Delhi maintains strong energy ties with Iran, what it sees as "civilizational". But as EAM Jaishankar & Iran FM Araghchi meet, focus will be on the movement of India-bound vessels via Hormuz. India imports a significant portion of its oil through the strait, making safe passage a priority. The BRICS meeting offers India a platform to advocate for de-escalation without alienating key partners. BRICS, expanded to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and others, has struggled to forge a unified stance on the West Asia conflict due to internal divisions, including between Iran and the UAE. A joint statement, if achieved, could signal the group's relevance as a voice for the Global South. For Tehran, engagement helps counter Western pressure and explore economic alternatives as it navigates ceasefire talks with Washington. Success in New Delhi could bolster preparations for the full BRICS leaders' summit later in 2026, but failure to bridge gaps risks exposing the group's fractures. Also read: Starmer delivers major speech amid UK leadership crisis: From nationalisation of British steel to Iran war — What he said

The meeting is expected to focus on regional stability, multilateral cooperation, and economic resilience. Other participants are expected to include Russia's Sergey Lavrov, with China's Wang Yi absent due to clashing commitments- Trump's China visit.&nbsp;

Iran's Foreign Minister set for key BRICS talks in India amid fragile West Asia truce

The BRICS alliance is actively shifting its focus towards developing independent, cross-border payment systems to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar and Western-controlled financial messaging systems like SWIFT. This initiative, often referred to as "BRICS Pay" or the "BRICS Bridge," is gaining momentum, particularly under the 2025 Brazilian and 2026 Indian leadership, with a focus on practical, digital-led infrastructure rather than a single common currency. 


BRICS Focus Shifts To Cross-Border Payment Systems

The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India for the upcoming BRICS Summit in September. The visit is expected to highlight strong ties between the two nations and could lead to key discussions on trade, energy, and global geopolitics. With BRICS gaining increasing importance, all eyes will be on the outcomes of this high-profile meeting.

BREAKING: Kremlin Confirms Russian President Putin to Visit India for BRICS Summit in September 

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called on the BRICS bloc of major emerging economies to play an “independent” role in halting the ongoing conflict and aggression against Iran. Pezeshkian said in a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday that any resolution to the ongoing conflict would require the US and Israel to halt their military actions first, along with firm guarantees to prevent future military strikes against Iran, said a post from Iran’s embassy in India.&nbsp;Pezeshkian referred to India’s rotating presidency of BRICS and called for the group to play an independent role in halting aggressions against Iran and in safeguarding regional and international peace and stability.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Telephone Conversation between President Pezeshkian and the Prime Minister of India Dr. Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, held a telephone conversation on Saturday, 21 March 2026, with Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, during which they discussed… <a href="https://t.co/FFjzPnpe81">pic.twitter.com/FFjzPnpe81</a>&mdash; Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iran_in_India/status/2035348460673937418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-america-attacks-pakistan-we-ll-target-delhi-and-mumbai-in-india-says-former-high-commissioner-abdul-basit-1774109240302">‘If America attacks Pakistan, we’ll target Delhi and Mumbai in India,’ says former high commissioner Abdul Basit</a>&nbsp;The Iranian president said an “immediate cessation of aggressions by the US and Israel, along with guarantees against their recurrence in the future,” are the prerequisites for ending the war and preventing a broader catastrophe.&nbsp;<h2>Pezeshkian reiterated willingness to engage in dialogue</h2>&nbsp;Pezeshkian reiterated his country’s willingness to engage in dialogue with global leaders, including on the sidelines of the United Nations, for verification and oversight of its nuclear programme.&nbsp;He also proposed the establishment of a regional security framework composed of countries of West Asia, aimed at ensuring peace and stability in the region through regional cooperation without foreign interference.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-condemns-iran-s-reckless-attacks-on-diego-garcia-terms-them-threat-to-british-interests-and-allies-1774096515620">UK condemns Iran’s ‘reckless attack’ on Diego Garcia, terms it ‘threat to British interests and allies’</a> Conveying Tehran’s position to PM Modi, Pezeshkian said that Iran “did not initiate the war”, alleging that the “aggressor, without any justification, logic, or legal basis, launched military attacks against Iran” even as nuclear negotiations were underway.&nbsp;Pezeshkian also rejected claims by the US that the military action was aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He said that in multiple meetings, “the late Leader of the Islamic Revolution had firmly opposed nuclear weapons and had issued both administrative and religious directives prohibiting any move toward their development.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-india-is-incredible-will-be-next-super-power-says-laura-loomer-in-dramatic-u-turn-after-9-day-visit-1774028096996">‘India is incredible, will be next super power,’ says Laura Loomer in dramatic U-turn after visit</a><h2>Dismisses allegations portraying Iran as source of regional instability</h2>&nbsp;He also dismissed allegations portraying Iran as a source of regional instability, and asserted that Israel has carried out attacks and assassinations “across countries including Lebanon, Gaza, Iran, Iraq and Qatar, under the pretext of maintaining security while fuelling unrest.”&nbsp;It was the second conversation between President Pezeshkian and PM Modi since the conflict started on February 28.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-gives-nod-to-us-use-of-its-bases-for-strikes-on-iranian-sites-targeting-strait-of-hormuz-1774031166591">UK approves US use of its bases for strikes on Iranian sites targeting Strait of Hormuz</a>&nbsp;In a statement, the Iranian embassy in India said, "President of the Islamic Republic of Iran held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of India, during which they discussed and exchanged views on bilateral relations, as well as regional and international developments in light of the continued military aggressions by the United States and the Zionist regime against Iran.”&nbsp;<h2>‘War serves no one’s interest,’ reiterates PM Modi</h2>&nbsp;Expressing deep concern over the escalating tensions, "PM Modi strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure, warning that such actions pose serious risks to global food and energy security, as well as agricultural exports," the release stated. Referring to his ongoing consultations with world leaders, thePrime Minister Modi reiterated that “war serves no one’s interest, and therefore, all parties should move toward peace as soon as possible.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/iranian-man-arrested-while-trying-to-enter-uk-s-nuclear-naval-base-with-woman-1774016970617">Iranian man arrested while trying to enter UK’s nuclear naval base with woman</a>&nbsp;PM Modi also stressed the need to ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz and uphold freedom of navigation in the Persian Gulf, given their critical role in global trade and energy supplies.&nbsp;India has stepped up diplomatic engagement with Iran, focusing on ensuring the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and the safety of key shipping routes.

In the call, the Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said an “immediate cessation of aggressions by the US and Israel, along with guarantees against their recurrence in the future,” are the prerequisites for ending the war and preventing a broader catastrophe.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called on the BRICS bloc of major emerging economies to play an “independent” role in halting the ongoing conflict and aggression against Iran. Pezeshkian said in a telephone conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday that any resolution to the ongoing conflict would require the US and Israel to halt their military actions first, along with firm guarantees to prevent future military strikes against Iran, said a post from Iran’s embassy in India. Pezeshkian referred to India’s rotating presidency of BRICS and called for the group to play an independent role in halting aggressions against Iran and in safeguarding regional and international peace and stability.

In the call, the Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said an “immediate cessation of aggressions by the US and Israel, along with guarantees against their recurrence in the future,” are the prerequisites for ending the war and preventing a broader catastrophe.

‘Halt military action first’: Iran’s president calls on India-chaired BRICS to play role in halting aggression

Multiple global polls indicate a sharp rise in the perception of the United States as a security threat. Surveys show that both G7 and BRICS nations increasingly view the US as a risk, with threat perception rising notably in countries like Canada and India.

The findings highlight shifting geopolitical attitudes and growing global unease over Washington’s foreign policy direction.

America a Security Threat? Global Polls Show Rising View Of US As Risk 

Questions are growing over the future of petrodollar dominance as BRICS moves closer to building a new global payment system. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on the dollar and bypass SWIFT, potentially reshaping trade settlements amid rising geopolitical and sanctions pressures.


Petrodollar Deals Decline? BRICS Lays Groundwork For New Global Payment System | WION

As India prepares to host the BRICS summit later this year, amid rumours of a “BRICS currency” to replace the US dollar, the focus is expected to be on a shared payment system that links national digital currencies. Here's all you need to know about a BRICS payment system.<h2>Not a currency, but a system</h2>Previously, reports suggested the possible launch of a single BRICS currency that could potentially replace the US dollar. However, the proposals for a common currency ran into obvious problems: different inflation regimes, capital controls, and fears that China’s yuan would dominate any shared system. However, this new approach, a BRICS payment system built on interoperable central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), could avoid all of that.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-safe-is-the-rupee-from-trump-s-tantrums-economic-survey-2025-26-reveals-risks-1769676289934">How safe is the rupee from Trump's tantrums? Economic Survey 2026 reveals risks</a><h2>BRICS digital currency platform</h2>According to Asia Times, the idea is to connect existing central bank digital currencies, such as India’s digital rupee, China’s digital yuan and Russia’s digital ruble, through a common payment infrastructure. Each country keeps full control over its own currency. What changes is how these currencies interact.In simple terms, it would allow countries to settle trade directly in their own digital currencies, without routing payments through correspondent banks or the dollar-based SWIFT network.<h2>Why India matters</h2>India is playing a central role in shaping this direction. Summit host New Delhi has consistently pushed for interoperability rather than monetary integration, a philosophy shaped by its own digital payments success at home through Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The emphasis is on building systems that talk to each other while preserving sovereignty.The Reserve Bank of India has been clear that the digital rupee is not a crypto asset and not a step toward a currency union. It is simply a digital version of sovereign money.There is also a practical lesson behind this stance. Earlier trade settlements with Russia left Moscow holding large amounts of rupees it could not easily spend, the so-called “rupee trap”. A multilateral system, rather than bilateral deals, helps prevent currencies from piling up uselessly.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/economic-survey-2025-26-tabled-in-lok-sabha-india-needs-8-growth-to-achieve-viksit-bharat-dream-by-2047-what-it-says-about-india-s-growth-outlook-1769670492894">Economic Survey 2025–26: India needs 8% growth to become ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047</a><h2>How the system would actually work</h2>The proposed BRICS payment system rests on two technical ideas: settlement cycles and forex swap lines. Settlement cycles mean countries do not settle every transaction instantly. Instead, trade flows are netted out over a period. Only the final difference is transferred.For example, if China imports 500 billion rupees worth of goods from India in a month and exports 450 billion, only the net 50 billion needs to be settled. That massively reduces liquidity needs and transaction costs.Forex swap lines, meanwhile, act as a safety valve. If one country suddenly needs more of another’s currency to settle its balance, central banks can temporarily swap currencies to smooth things over.This is not about killing the dollarNone of this replaces the dollar. The dollar still dominates global finance, making up around 59 per cent of global reserves and about 58 per cent of international payments. But there is growing anxiety about how fragile that system has become.US national debt is nearing 39 trillion dollars. Global debt stands at around $315 trillion, 64 per cent of which is denominated in dollars. That means the entire world is exposed to US monetary policy and US political stability.The risk is circular. If global demand for dollar assets weakens, US borrowing costs rise. That tightens financial conditions everywhere and can trigger cascading crises.<h2>Why do countries want a backup</h2>This is where geopolitics enters. The concerns about the dollar partly stem from Russia’s exclusion from SWIFT and the freezing of 300 billion dollars. While Iran, North Korea and Cuba have also faced similar measures before, Russia proved that even major economies are not immune.With financial infrastructure emerging as a strategic weapon, the BRICS digital payment system could act as a shock absorber. A parallel system that keeps trade functioning if the main one breaks down.<h2>When will the BRICS payment system be launched?</h2>The BRICS payment system will take some time to come into practice as most CBDCs are still in pilot stages. Legal frameworks and technical standards also vary wildly among the BRICS countries.The likely path is gradual - starting with bilateral links, then stitching them into a network. India, meanwhile, already offers a model. Its UPI is already interoperable with the UAE’s payment system, enabling fast cross-border transfers. Brazil’s PIX and China’s digital infrastructure could follow. Over time, this could evolve into a shared BRICS payment layer. &nbsp;

As talk of a “BRICS currency” grows, the bloc actually seems to be moving in a very different direction. Instead of one shared currency, BRICS is working on a digital payment system that links national digital currencies like India’s e-rupee, China’s e-yuan and Russia’s e-ruble. WION Explains

As India prepares to host the BRICS summit later this year, amid rumours of a “BRICS currency” to replace the US dollar, the focus is expected to be on a shared payment system that links national digital currencies. Here's all you need to know about a BRICS payment system. Not a currency, but a system Previously, reports suggested the possible launch of a single BRICS currency that could potentially replace the US dollar. However, the proposals for a common currency ran into obvious problems: different inflation regimes, capital controls, and fears that China’s yuan would dominate any shared system. However, this new approach, a BRICS payment system built on interoperable central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), could avoid all of that. Also read | How safe is the rupee from Trump's tantrums? Economic Survey 2026 reveals risks BRICS digital currency platform According to Asia Times, the idea is to connect existing central bank digital currencies, such as India’s digital rupee, China’s digital yuan and Russia’s digital ruble, through a common payment infrastructure. Each country keeps full control over its own currency. What changes is how these currencies interact. In simple terms, it would allow countries to settle trade directly in their own digital currencies, without routing payments through correspondent banks or the dollar-based SWIFT network. Why India matters India is playing a central role in shaping this direction. Summit host New Delhi has consistently pushed for interoperability rather than monetary integration, a philosophy shaped by its own digital payments success at home through Unified Payments Interface (UPI). The emphasis is on building systems that talk to each other while preserving sovereignty. The Reserve Bank of India has been clear that the digital rupee is not a crypto asset and not a step toward a currency union. It is simply a digital version of sovereign money. There is also a practical lesson behind this stance. Earlier trade settlements with Russia left Moscow holding large amounts of rupees it could not easily spend, the so-called “rupee trap”. A multilateral system, rather than bilateral deals, helps prevent currencies from piling up uselessly. Also read | Economic Survey 2025–26: India needs 8% growth to become ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 How the system would actually work The proposed BRICS payment system rests on two technical ideas: settlement cycles and forex swap lines. Settlement cycles mean countries do not settle every transaction instantly. Instead, trade flows are netted out over a period. Only the final difference is transferred. For example, if China imports 500 billion rupees worth of goods from India in a month and exports 450 billion, only the net 50 billion needs to be settled. That massively reduces liquidity needs and transaction costs. Forex swap lines, meanwhile, act as a safety valve. If one country suddenly needs more of another’s currency to settle its balance, central banks can temporarily swap currencies to smooth things over. This is not about killing the dollar None of this replaces the dollar. The dollar still dominates global finance, making up around 59 per cent of global reserves and about 58 per cent of international payments. But there is growing anxiety about how fragile that system has become. US national debt is nearing 39 trillion dollars. Global debt stands at around $315 trillion, 64 per cent of which is denominated in dollars. That means the entire world is exposed to US monetary policy and US political stability. The risk is circular. If global demand for dollar assets weakens, US borrowing costs rise. That tightens financial conditions everywhere and can trigger cascading crises. Why do countries want a backup This is where geopolitics enters. The concerns about the dollar partly stem from Russia’s exclusion from SWIFT and the freezing of 300 billion dollars. While Iran, North Korea and Cuba have also faced similar measures before, Russia proved that even major economies are not immune. With financial infrastructure emerging as a strategic weapon, the BRICS digital payment system could act as a shock absorber. A parallel system that keeps trade functioning if the main one breaks down. When will the BRICS payment system be launched? The BRICS payment system will take some time to come into practice as most CBDCs are still in pilot stages. Legal frameworks and technical standards also vary wildly among the BRICS countries. The likely path is gradual - starting with bilateral links, then stitching them into a network. India, meanwhile, already offers a model. Its UPI is already interoperable with the UAE’s payment system, enabling fast cross-border transfers. Brazil’s PIX and China’s digital infrastructure could follow. Over time, this could evolve into a shared BRICS payment layer.

As talk of a “BRICS currency” grows, the bloc actually seems to be moving in a very different direction. Instead of one shared currency, BRICS is working on a digital payment system that links national digital currencies like India’s e-rupee, China’s e-yuan and Russia’s e-ruble. WION Explains

India takes lead as BRICS eyes digital payment system to bypass dollar. All about the BRICS payment system - Explained

NATO leads in budget and tech, but BRICS dominates in troops and tanks. The 2025 expansion adds Indonesia and Iran to BRICS, boosting its military mass. Here is the verified power comparison.

NATO leads in budget and tech, but BRICS dominates in troops and tanks. The 2025 expansion adds Indonesia and Iran to BRICS, boosting its military mass. Here is the verified power comparison.

BRICS vs NATO countries: Who is more powerful? Military comparison

India on Tuesday officially unveiled the logo and website for its BRICS Presidency 2026, marking the beginning of preparation for its upcoming leadership of the bloc. The launch was held in New Delhi and attended by external affairs minister S Jaishankar, who laid out India’s priorities for the year ahead.&nbsp;The logo shows Indian identity and the collective nature of BRICS, with the overall shape inspired by the lotus, India’s national flower. At the centre of the design is the internal petals of the lotus forming two hands joined in a Namaste. The five petals are coloured in such a way that they represent the founding BRICS members Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, emphasising unity among diverse countries.<h3>The logo captures the diversity and unity of BRICS</h3>Speaking at the event, S Jaishankar said the logo and website highlight the importance of capacity-building, innovation and sustainable development for shared progress. He added that the logo captures the diversity and unity of BRICS, while the India BRICS website will function as a central platform during the country’s chairship, offering updates on meetings, initiatives and outcomes, and facilitating timely information-sharing and wider engagement.&nbsp;The External Affairs Minister added that India’s BRICS chairship would aim to harness the potential of BRICS countries for greater global welfare. He stated that India will lead in 2026 at a crucial moment, as BRICS completes 20 years since its founding.&nbsp;Over the years, he said, "BRICS has steadily evolved into a significant platform for cooperation among emerging markets and developing economies, expanding its agenda and membership while remaining focused on people-centric development, dialogue and practical cooperation."&nbsp;The term BRICS is formed from the first letters of its original members, which include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia joining the grouping as full members at a later stage.&nbsp;

The logo shows Indian identity and the collective nature of BRICS, with the overall shape inspired by the lotus, India’s national flower. At the centre of the design is the internal petals of the lotus forming two hands joined in a Namaste. 

India on Tuesday officially unveiled the logo and website for its BRICS Presidency 2026, marking the beginning of preparation for its upcoming leadership of the bloc. The launch was held in New Delhi and attended by external affairs minister S Jaishankar, who laid out India’s priorities for the year ahead. The logo shows Indian identity and the collective nature of BRICS, with the overall shape inspired by the lotus, India’s national flower. At the centre of the design is the internal petals of the lotus forming two hands joined in a Namaste. The five petals are coloured in such a way that they represent the founding BRICS members Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, emphasising unity among diverse countries. The logo captures the diversity and unity of BRICS Speaking at the event, S Jaishankar said the logo and website highlight the importance of capacity-building, innovation and sustainable development for shared progress. He added that the logo captures the diversity and unity of BRICS, while the India BRICS website will function as a central platform during the country’s chairship, offering updates on meetings, initiatives and outcomes, and facilitating timely information-sharing and wider engagement. The External Affairs Minister added that India’s BRICS chairship would aim to harness the potential of BRICS countries for greater global welfare. He stated that India will lead in 2026 at a crucial moment, as BRICS completes 20 years since its founding. Over the years, he said, "BRICS has steadily evolved into a significant platform for cooperation among emerging markets and developing economies, expanding its agenda and membership while remaining focused on people-centric development, dialogue and practical cooperation." The term BRICS is formed from the first letters of its original members, which include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia joining the grouping as full members at a later stage.

The logo shows Indian identity and the collective nature of BRICS, with the overall shape inspired by the lotus, India’s national flower. At the centre of the design is the internal petals of the lotus forming two hands joined in a Namaste.&nbsp;

India unveils logo, website for BRICS Presidency 2026 — Check theme and key details

To challenge the Dollar's dominance as the global reserve currency, BRICS nations have initiated a digital payment system called 'bridge'. While the payment platform is still in its infancy, it is a start. In this next report, we decode how the BRICS nations' alternative payment system challenges the Western-controlled SWIFT system. Take a look.


BRICS Wage Silent Economic War Against Trump's Brinksmanship 

South Africa is hosting the China‑led “Will for Peace 2026” naval exercise in Cape Town waters, with warships from BRICS nations including China, Russia and Iran docking ahead of drills focused on maritime security and safeguarding trade routes. The move has raised concerns in Washington and triggered debate over Pretoria’s foreign policy alignment amid strained US ties.

Drills Focused on Safety of Shipping & Maritime Economic Activity, Draws Criticism From US 

French President Emmanuel Macron said that he would pay a visit to India next month, with New Delhi set to host the AI Impact Summit. He made the remarks while addressing the Diplomatic Corps yesterday, where he talked about the successes of French diplomacy in 2025.


India-France Relations: French President Macron to Visit India Next Month

India To Host BRICS Summit This Year | Trump Calls BRICS Anti-American

China, sharply reduced their US treasury holdings in September, cutting a combined 29 billion dollars. India led with a 16.7 billion dollar draw-down, followed by Brazil at 11.8 billion dollars, while China trimmed another 500 million dollars, continuing its multi-year reduction. The pullback comes at a time when the dollar is already under pressure. The dollar index has fallen by over 10 percent in 2025, one of its steepest annual drops in two decades, before a mild rebound recently. Global banks say the sell-off reflects a mix of lower US yields, shifting reserve strategies, and early signs of de-Dollarisation among emerging markets.



India–Russia Push Rupee–Rouble Trade Mechanism

Thailand has formally expressed its ambition to join BRICS and is seeking India’s backing ahead of New Delhi’s chairmanship of the grouping in 2026, Thai Ambassador Chavanart Thangsumphant announced at a sombre National Day reception in the Indian capital on Wednesday. &nbsp;“In this spirit of deeper cooperation, Thailand has also expressed its intention to become a member of BRICS, underscoring our commitment to contributing to inclusive multilateralism and enhanced South–South cooperation, an aspiration we look forward to pursuing alongside India,” Ambassador Chavanart said.As the chair of the BRICS grouping, India will host the summit next year. A founding member of BRICS, India has seen the organisation attract growing global interest, with numerous countries expressing eagerness to join.In her address, Ambassador Chavanart highlighted the rapid elevation of India-Thailand relations, pointing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit earlier this year that upgraded ties to a Strategic Partnership.“Our two nations are bound by centuries of cultural and spiritual heritage. This year saw transformative progress. The official visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Thailand elevated our relations to a Strategic Partnership,” she said.The ambassador also noted the recent visit of Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow to India from 29 November to 2 December, which “further energised our cooperation in connectivity, trade, security, and regional frameworks—reflecting a clear, forward-looking vision for a more prosperous and interconnected future.” She quoted India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, who during the talks described Thailand as a “very important maritime neighbour,” underscoring “genuine trust and shared strategic outlook” between the two countries. It was during this visit that Thailand raised the matter of its BRICS membership with India.Marking the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which is Thailand's national day on 5th December, the event was subdued as Thailand continues a period of national mourning following the death of Queen Mother Sirikit on 24 October. Guests dressed in black observed a minute’s silence and watched a video tribute to Her Majesty’s lifelong dedication to her country. India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, who was the chief guest, welcomed the growing convergence and paid tribute to the late Queen Mother. At the entrance, the embassy displayed portraits of Her Majesty in the eight traditional Chud Thai Phra Rajaniyom dresses.

As the chair of the BRICS grouping, India will host the summit next year. A founding member of BRICS, India has seen the organisation attract growing global interest, with numerous countries expressing eagerness to join.

Thailand has formally expressed its ambition to join BRICS and is seeking India’s backing ahead of New Delhi’s chairmanship of the grouping in 2026, Thai Ambassador Chavanart Thangsumphant announced at a sombre National Day reception in the Indian capital on Wednesday. “In this spirit of deeper cooperation, Thailand has also expressed its intention to become a member of BRICS, underscoring our commitment to contributing to inclusive multilateralism and enhanced South–South cooperation, an aspiration we look forward to pursuing alongside India,” Ambassador Chavanart said. As the chair of the BRICS grouping, India will host the summit next year. A founding member of BRICS, India has seen the organisation attract growing global interest, with numerous countries expressing eagerness to join. In her address, Ambassador Chavanart highlighted the rapid elevation of India-Thailand relations, pointing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit earlier this year that upgraded ties to a Strategic Partnership.“Our two nations are bound by centuries of cultural and spiritual heritage. This year saw transformative progress. The official visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Thailand elevated our relations to a Strategic Partnership,” she said. The ambassador also noted the recent visit of Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow to India from 29 November to 2 December, which “further energised our cooperation in connectivity, trade, security, and regional frameworks—reflecting a clear, forward-looking vision for a more prosperous and interconnected future.” She quoted India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, who during the talks described Thailand as a “very important maritime neighbour,” underscoring “genuine trust and shared strategic outlook” between the two countries. It was during this visit that Thailand raised the matter of its BRICS membership with India. Marking the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which is Thailand's national day on 5th December, the event was subdued as Thailand continues a period of national mourning following the death of Queen Mother Sirikit on 24 October. Guests dressed in black observed a minute’s silence and watched a video tribute to Her Majesty’s lifelong dedication to her country. India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, who was the chief guest, welcomed the growing convergence and paid tribute to the late Queen Mother. At the entrance, the embassy displayed portraits of Her Majesty in the eight traditional Chud Thai Phra Rajaniyom dresses.

As the chair of the BRICS grouping, India will host the summit next year. A founding member of BRICS, India has seen the organisation attract growing global interest, with numerous countries expressing eagerness to join.

Thailand seeks BRICS membership with India’s support

Donald Trump said that following his tariff threat countries began “dropping out of BRICS” and that they don't talk about replacing the US dollar anymore.


US President says 'BRICS was an attack on the Dollar' 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday (Sep 27) backed the application of India and Brazil for permanent seats at the United Nations Security Council in his speech at the UN General Assembly in New York. He also stressed the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia, as a mechanism for coordinating the interests of the Global South.“The issue of Security Council reform is particularly important. Russia calls for its democratisation exclusively through the expansion of the representation of Asia, Africa and Latin America. We support the application of Brazil and India for permanent seats on the Council, while at the same time correcting the historical injustice towards Africa within the parameters that have been agreed by the countries of the continent themselves,” Lavrov said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Russia&#39;s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says we support the application of Brazil, India for permanent seats at the UNSC.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA</a> <a href="https://t.co/ETbtTXjFFD">pic.twitter.com/ETbtTXjFFD</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1971983680651645165?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Lavrov further asserted that the global balance of power has changed significantly in the 80 years since the UN was founded in 1945. “These new realities are not being adequately reflected in our organisational framework,” he said.He further added, “The global majority is loudly asserting its rights. The SCO and BRICS play a special role as mechanisms for coordinating the interests of the Global South and East.”Painting a narrative of ‘Global South awakening,’ Lavrov stressed that countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America demand a more just representation.“The process of decolonisation and other major upheavals have changed the political map of the planet,” he said. He also proposed declaring a Day of Struggle Against Colonialism on December 14.The Russian minister noted that Moscow’s push to bring reform to the UNSC is not revolutionary but corrective. “Russia advocates for reforming the UN Security Council but does not campaign for a revolution against anyone,” he said.

Lavrov also stressed the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia, as a mechanism for coordinating the interests of the Global South.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday (Sep 27) backed the application of India and Brazil for permanent seats at the United Nations Security Council in his speech at the UN General Assembly in New York. He also stressed the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia, as a mechanism for coordinating the interests of the Global South. “The issue of Security Council reform is particularly important. Russia calls for its democratisation exclusively through the expansion of the representation of Asia, Africa and Latin America. We support the application of Brazil and India for permanent seats on the Council, while at the same time correcting the historical injustice towards Africa within the parameters that have been agreed by the countries of the continent themselves,” Lavrov said.

Lavrov also stressed the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia, as a mechanism for coordinating the interests of the Global South.

Lavrov backs India’s permanent seat at UNSC, hails role of SCO and BRICS in Global South, East

BRICS nations have overtaken the G7 in their share of the global economy, signaling a major power shift in the world order and highlighting the growing influence of the Global South.


Global South Rising: In 2023, BRICS surpasses G7 in global economic share

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China's 1st Emperor 'Send Quest' To Tibet In Search Of 'Immortality'

US President Donald Trump's White House trade advisor has done it again; Peter Navarro has once again taken a potshot at India. What's different this time? This time dragging the entire BRICS bloc into his tirade and has gone as far as calling India and others "vampires sucking our (America's) blood dry with their unfair trade practices". Navarro made the bizarre statement during a TV interaction. He also claimed that without selling to the United States, the BRICS nations would not survive. Here's all you need to know about Navarro's latest attack against India.<h2>What did Navarro say?</h2>In a TV interview, Navarro said the countries in BRICS — which includes India, China, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa, along with new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia — "would not survive without selling to the US.""When they sell to the US their exports they are like vampires sucking our blood dry with their unfair trade practices," he claimed. He went further, alleging that BRICS nations "hate each other and kill each other" historically. Navarro singled out India and China, describing the two as having been "at war for decades."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I don’t see the BRICS alliance lasting. They’ve long hated each other—and none survive without selling to the United States. <a href="https://t.co/0vqNq8fZaE">pic.twitter.com/0vqNq8fZaE</a>&mdash; Peter Navarro (@RealPNavarro) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealPNavarro/status/1965125447324213348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-breaks-silence-on-modi-trump-ties-after-potus-u-turn-on-america-lost-india-to-china-remark-1757140373958">Jaishankar breaks silence on Modi–Trump ties after POTUS's U-turn on America 'lost India to China' remark</a><h2>Another day, another attack</h2>Navarro's latest remarks follow weeks of attacks on India over its imports of discounted Russian oil. Last week, one of his social media posts was fact-checked by X users, who noted that India's oil trade was about energy security, not profiteering. Having a full-on public meltdown, Navarro then proceeded to dismiss the correction as "crap," and lashed out at Elon Musk, who eventually defended his platform's community notes feature.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-peter-navarro-lashes-out-at-india-again-melts-down-after-netizens-fact-check-his-russian-oil-claim-live-musk-1757207674239">Trump aide Navarro lashes out at India again! Targets Musk in a public meltdown after netizens fact-check his Russian oil claims</a><h2>Navarro's love (hate) for vampires</h2>The "vampire" rhetoric is not new for Navarro. In May, he made similar comments about China in relation to the UK, warning London not to become "a dumping ground" for Chinese goods or "an all too compliant servant of the Chinese Communist Party". "If the Chinese vampire can't suck the American blood, it is going to suck the UK blood and the EU blood," he said, as quoted by the Telegraph.Navarro’s renewed hostility towards India comes in the wake of President Donald Trump's move to double tariffs on Indian imports to 50 per cent, a penalty Washington linked to New Delhi's oil trade with Moscow.

During a TV interview, Trump's advisor Peter Navarro launched a fresh attack on India, labelling it and other BRICS nations as "vampires sucking our blood dry with their unfair trade practices."

US President Donald Trump's White House trade advisor has done it again; Peter Navarro has once again taken a potshot at India. What's different this time? This time dragging the entire BRICS bloc into his tirade and has gone as far as calling India and others "vampires sucking our (America's) blood dry with their unfair trade practices". Navarro made the bizarre statement during a TV interaction. He also claimed that without selling to the United States, the BRICS nations would not survive. Here's all you need to know about Navarro's latest attack against India. What did Navarro say? In a TV interview, Navarro said the countries in BRICS — which includes India, China, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa, along with new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia — "would not survive without selling to the US." "When they sell to the US their exports they are like vampires sucking our blood dry with their unfair trade practices," he claimed. He went further, alleging that BRICS nations "hate each other and kill each other" historically. Navarro singled out India and China, describing the two as having been "at war for decades."

During a TV interview, Trump's advisor Peter Navarro launched a fresh attack on India, labelling it and other BRICS nations as "vampires sucking our blood dry with their unfair trade practices." Here's what he said.

Trump aide Navarro labels India and BRICS 'vampires' claims they're 'sucking US blood dry' in latest bizarre tirade

During the virtual Summit of BRICS Leaders, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, "It is my privilege to represent Prime Minister Narendra Modi at this virtual meeting of BRICS Leaders. I convey his greetings to all of you. The state of the world today is a cause for genuine concern. The last few years have witnessed the devastating impact of the Covid pandemic, major conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East/West Asia, volatility in trade and investment flows, extreme climate events and a discernible slowing down of the SDG Agenda.

BRICS Virtual Summit Slams US Tariffs


India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will address the BRICS 2025 virtual summit, highlighting key global and regional challenges. Watch to know more on the key discussions taking place.

BRICS 2025: S. Jaishankar To Speak At Crucial BRICS Virtual Summi

As China and Russia accelerate de-dollarisation efforts, questions loom over whether the US can afford strained ties with India. With Trump accusing BRICS of harboring anti-American policies, global power dynamics face a dramatic shift.


As China, Russia step up de-dollarisation efforts, can the USafford to alienate India? 

Trump's tariff war: From 'dead economy' to 'good friend': Trump makes a U-turn 

According to Bloomberg, BRICS leaders are preparing for a virtual summit after Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called for urgent talks to counter Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs.


BRICS summit called to counter Trump’s tariff offensive: report

The U.S. has imposed steep duties on India and Brazil, raising trade tensions. Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced what he calls “discriminatory” sanctions targeting BRICS nations, escalating the global economic standoff.

Trump's tariffs push BRICS nations to unite against US

The U.S. has imposed steep duties on India and Brazil, raising trade tensions. Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced what he calls “discriminatory” sanctions targeting BRICS nations, escalating the global economic standoff.


Putin calls out 'discriminatory' sanctions against BRICS nations

'Xiao he' steals the show, meet humanoid robot assisting journalists at SCO summit 2025 

Brazil has proposed an extraordinary BRICS summit to align a collective response to US trade challenges, following the recent increase in US tariffs on Brazilian goods.

Brazil Requests BRICS Meeting to Counter US Trade Threats

World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are gathering in China for the 25th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The summit comes at a time of global tension, with wars and US President Donald Trump’s policies adding to uncertainty. Many see this meeting as important for building a group that could balance Western influence.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-dragon-elephant-tango-will-pm-modi-s-china-visit-change-the-indo-pacific-balance-1756550879120">'Dragon-Elephant tango': Will PM Modi's China visit change Indo-Pacific balance?</a><h2>Can SCO and BRICS become a genuine counterweight to Western alliances?</h2>Two groupings, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS, have grown in size and influence in recent years. Both present themselves as voices of the Global South and as platforms to promote a multipolar world, one less dominated by the US and Europe. The SCO, formed in 2001, now has 10 members, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan and Central Asian states, with Belarus joining in 2023. BRICS, created in 2009, has expanded to 11 countries, stretching across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Together, they cover nearly half the world’s population and a large share of global GDP.<h2>SCO: Unity with limits</h2>The SCO began as a security forum but has since expanded into economic and political cooperation. It has staged joint anti-terror drills, launched an anti-terror structure in Tashkent, and in 2024, held its first full counter-terrorism exercise using drones and robotics.Economically, SCO members discuss energy corridors, trade and investment, often linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The 2024 Astana summit saw the launch of an SCO Investors Association to support cross-border projects.Diplomatically, the SCO echoes the language of China and Russia, sovereignty, non-interference, and rejection of Western-backed “colour revolutions”. Yet deep divides persist. India and Pakistan rarely align, and India often resists anti-Western declarations. As a result, the SCO acts more as a forum than a unified bloc.<h2>BRICS: Financial tools against Western dominance</h2>BRICS started with five members (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and has grown to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, the UAE and soon Saudi Arabia. Together, they account for a quarter of global GDP. BRICS has launched its own financial institutions, the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, to rival the IMF and World Bank. The bank has issued loans in local currencies, aiming to reduce reliance on the US dollar. Ideas like BRICS Pay, a blockchain-based payment system, are meant to promote trade in members’ currencies.Diplomatically, BRICS seeks to amplify the Global South's voice. At the 2025 Rio summit, leaders called for UN Security Council reform, fairer IMF voting rights, and stronger cooperation on infrastructure. Yet the group faces limits: its members often disagree, especially on Russia’s war in Ukraine, and many remain deeply tied to Western markets.<h2>Western blocs remain more integrated</h2>Compared with the SCO and BRICS, Western alliances like NATO, the EU and the G7 remain more tightly bound. NATO is a military alliance with a collective defence clause and integrated command. The EU has a single market and currency. The G7, though informal, coordinates major economies on sanctions, climate policy and global trade.These Western blocs have deeper structures, stronger enforcement, and higher economic integration than either the SCO or BRICS. While SCO and BRICS issue joint communiqués, they lack the ability to enforce common policies.<h2>Counterweight or counterpart?</h2>Both blocs have expanded their reach: SCO now extends through Eurasia, and BRICS spans Africa, Asia, and beyond. They have established parallel institutions (e.g. SCO’s Regional Antiterrorist Structure; BRICS’s NDB and payment platforms) and issue coordinated messages on global issues. However, major limitations remain. Neither the SCO nor BRICS is a unified military or economic bloc on the model of NATO or the EU. SCO members actively avoid a NATO-like alliance, and BRICS has explicitly stopped short of a common defence structure.Many BRICS economies remain heavily tied to Western markets trade with the US and EU is still a large share of their GDP, which limits how far they can economically decouple.Meanwhile, Western alliances retain deeper integration where it counts, NATO, EU and G7 coordinate security, trade, and technology at a level that SCO and BRICS do not. NATO’s new defence commitments and the EU’s internal market dwarf the SCO’s or BRICS’s loose frameworks. Western unity also remains a comparative advantage: for now, the G7 and EU speak with a largely coherent voice on sanctions and trade (despite occasional US–Europe differences), whereas SCO and BRICS statements often have key absences.Both the SCO and BRICS will have carved out space for non-Western voices and offered alternatives in finance and diplomacy. Yet they have not fully crystallised into viable counterweights on all dimensions. Their collective influence is real but constrained, substantial at the level of ideas and joint declarations, but limited in military capability and practical cohesion. In the coming years, whether SCO and BRICS mature into true counter-blocs will depend on how (and if) they bridge their internal divides and turn summits into coordinated action.

World leaders meet in China for the SCO summit, as SCO and BRICS expand influence, uniting half the world’s population and challenging Western dominance with calls for a multipolar order.

World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are gathering in China for the 25th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The summit comes at a time of global tension, with wars and US President Donald Trump’s policies adding to uncertainty. Many see this meeting as important for building a group that could balance Western influence. Also read: 'Dragon-Elephant tango': Will PM Modi's China visit change Indo-Pacific balance? Can SCO and BRICS become a genuine counterweight to Western alliances? Two groupings, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS, have grown in size and influence in recent years. Both present themselves as voices of the Global South and as platforms to promote a multipolar world, one less dominated by the US and Europe. The SCO, formed in 2001, now has 10 members, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan and Central Asian states, with Belarus joining in 2023. BRICS, created in 2009, has expanded to 11 countries, stretching across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Together, they cover nearly half the world’s population and a large share of global GDP. SCO: Unity with limits The SCO began as a security forum but has since expanded into economic and political cooperation. It has staged joint anti-terror drills, launched an anti-terror structure in Tashkent, and in 2024, held its first full counter-terrorism exercise using drones and robotics. Economically, SCO members discuss energy corridors, trade and investment, often linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The 2024 Astana summit saw the launch of an SCO Investors Association to support cross-border projects. Diplomatically, the SCO echoes the language of China and Russia, sovereignty, non-interference, and rejection of Western-backed “colour revolutions”. Yet deep divides persist. India and Pakistan rarely align, and India often resists anti-Western declarations. As a result, the SCO acts more as a forum than a unified bloc. BRICS: Financial tools against Western dominance BRICS started with five members (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and has grown to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, the UAE and soon Saudi Arabia. Together, they account for a quarter of global GDP. BRICS has launched its own financial institutions, the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, to rival the IMF and World Bank. The bank has issued loans in local currencies, aiming to reduce reliance on the US dollar. Ideas like BRICS Pay, a blockchain-based payment system, are meant to promote trade in members’ currencies. Diplomatically, BRICS seeks to amplify the Global South's voice. At the 2025 Rio summit, leaders called for UN Security Council reform, fairer IMF voting rights, and stronger cooperation on infrastructure. Yet the group faces limits: its members often disagree, especially on Russia’s war in Ukraine, and many remain deeply tied to Western markets. Western blocs remain more integrated Compared with the SCO and BRICS, Western alliances like NATO, the EU and the G7 remain more tightly bound. NATO is a military alliance with a collective defence clause and integrated command. The EU has a single market and currency. The G7, though informal, coordinates major economies on sanctions, climate policy and global trade. These Western blocs have deeper structures, stronger enforcement, and higher economic integration than either the SCO or BRICS. While SCO and BRICS issue joint communiqués, they lack the ability to enforce common policies. Counterweight or counterpart? Both blocs have expanded their reach: SCO now extends through Eurasia, and BRICS spans Africa, Asia, and beyond. They have established parallel institutions (e.g. SCO’s Regional Antiterrorist Structure; BRICS’s NDB and payment platforms) and issue coordinated messages on global issues. However, major limitations remain. Neither the SCO nor BRICS is a unified military or economic bloc on the model of NATO or the EU. SCO members actively avoid a NATO-like alliance, and BRICS has explicitly stopped short of a common defence structure. Many BRICS economies remain heavily tied to Western markets trade with the US and EU is still a large share of their GDP, which limits how far they can economically decouple. Meanwhile, Western alliances retain deeper integration where it counts, NATO, EU and G7 coordinate security, trade, and technology at a level that SCO and BRICS do not. NATO’s new defence commitments and the EU’s internal market dwarf the SCO’s or BRICS’s loose frameworks. Western unity also remains a comparative advantage: for now, the G7 and EU speak with a largely coherent voice on sanctions and trade (despite occasional US–Europe differences), whereas SCO and BRICS statements often have key absences. Both the SCO and BRICS will have carved out space for non-Western voices and offered alternatives in finance and diplomacy. Yet they have not fully crystallised into viable counterweights on all dimensions. Their collective influence is real but constrained, substantial at the level of ideas and joint declarations, but limited in military capability and practical cohesion. In the coming years, whether SCO and BRICS mature into true counter-blocs will depend on how (and if) they bridge their internal divides and turn summits into coordinated action.