Delhi Declaration: BRICS nations deftly walk a tightrope

Source: The Tribune | Original Published At: 2026-09-13 19:43:19 UTC

Key Points

• The New Delhi Declaration was unanimously adopted at the BRICS summit, reflecting a diplomatic achievement for India.
• The declaration was shaped by tensions among BRICS members, including Iran-UAE disputes over West Asia, the Russia-Ukraine war, and relations with the United States.
• The document avoided naming the United States over strikes on Iran, did not condemn Iranian attacks on Gulf Arab states, and did not criticize Russia for the war in Ukraine.
• The declaration emphasized broad principles such as restraint, sovereignty, civilian protection, dialogue, and diplomacy.
• It criticized Israel over Gaza, supported Palestinian rights, and opposed unilateral sanctions, protectionism, and indiscriminate tariffs.
• As China prepares to assume the BRICS chair, the article frames India's next test as converting BRICS diversity into practical cooperation rather than geopolitical rivalry.