Analysis of the BRICS Delhi Declaration: Ukraine Omitted, Iran-UAE Balance, Criticism of Unilateral Tariffs, Gaza Addressed

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Source: The Indian Express | Original Published At: 2026-09-12 22:41:19 UTC

The 2026 Delhi BRICS declaration contained no mention of Ukraine, Russia’s invasion, or related sanctions, unlike the 2025 Rio declaration’s neutral reference to national positions.
The declaration condemned unilateral coercive measures, unilateral economic sanctions and secondary sanctions, and criticized rising tariffs and carbon border adjustment mechanisms.
China and Russia reiterated support for Brazil and India to play a greater role in the United Nations, including the Security Council, echoing language from the 2025 Rio declaration.
BRICS leaders condemned terrorism and specifically the 22 April 2025 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, using formulation similar to the Rio declaration.
The declaration supported Iran’s WTO accession bid alongside Ethiopia’s, acknowledged China’s expanded zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries, and referenced attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
On Gaza, the declaration cited UN Security Council Resolution 2803, opposed forced displacement of Palestinians, and criticized arrangements that may legitimize or prolong occupation.
On Lebanon, the declaration called on Israel to respect agreed terms and withdraw occupying forces, with language similar to the 2025 Rio declaration.