18th BRICS Summit concludes in New Delhi with consensus declaration despite geopolitical tensions
The 18th BRICS Summit concluded in New Delhi on Sunday with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, achieved by consensus despite significant differences among member nations over conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine. The two-day summit, held under India's BRICS presidency, brought together leaders to discuss international security, economic cooperation, global governance, trade, technology, climate change and sustainable development.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the concluding session, emphasizing that BRICS must respond to current geopolitical challenges through cooperation and inclusive growth. He cautioned against the "weaponisation of technology and critical minerals," warning it could hinder shared progress. Modi noted that developing countries increasingly trust BRICS because their voices are heard and solutions are developed in partnership rather than imposed.
The summit was conducted under the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability" against a backdrop of global tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine war, West Asia conflict, new trade barriers and competition over technology and critical minerals.
