Himachal Minister Says India’s BRICS Presidency Is a Matter of Great Pride

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Source: ANI (Asian News International) | Original Published At: 2026-09-12 12:14:07 UTC

Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh said India holding the BRICS presidency amid the current global climate is a matter of great pride.
Speaking at the BRICS Summit 2026, he said India should further strengthen the grouping and its relations with member nations, including Brazil, China, Russia and South Africa.
He linked India’s BRICS engagement to national and strategic interests, citing India’s military training capabilities and strategic relevance in the Indian Ocean, through which a large share of global trade passes.
Singh said oil is critical to India’s economy and energy sector, and noted that US-imposed restrictions affect purchases from Russia, requiring serious consideration by the Indian government.
He called for dialogue with China on construction and ecological impacts in the Himalayan belt, citing hydroelectric projects and terrain changes in border states and Nepal.
The remarks coincided with India hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13 under the theme Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.
BRICS currently comprises 11 members: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.