BRICS transitions presidency from Brazil to India amid global challenges and strategic priorities

Source: The Hindu | Original Published At: 2025-12-18 03:37:43 UTC

Key Points

• Symbolic handover of BRICS presidency from Brazil to India using an Amazon rainforest wood gavel representing sustainability and cooperation
• Brazil's 2024 presidency prioritized AI governance, climate financing, and disease eradication through three key declarations at the Rio summit
• US pressures BRICS members with Trump's threats of tariffs against perceived dollar-weakening activities and criticism of India's defense ties with Russia
• Expanded BRICS summit included 11 full members, 10 partner countries, and major multilateral institutions, marking a milestone in institutional development
• India's 2026 presidency will continue Brazil's agenda with four pillars: resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability across climate, AI, and science sectors