BRICS 2026: India Champions 'Constructive Stability' Amidst Global Turbulence at New Delhi Summit

New Delhi : Under the shadow of escalating international volatility, India has officially kicked off the high-level BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting at the iconic Bharat Mandapam. Presiding over the two-day summit, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar set a firm tone, calling for the BRICS bloc to act as a "constructive and stable force" in a world increasingly defined by conflict and economic fragility.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Jaishankar highlighted that the gathering occurs at a critical juncture where global trade, technology, and climate challenges are reshaping the geopolitical landscape. "There is a growing expectation, particularly from emerging markets and developing nations, that BRICS will provide a steadying hand," he stated, emphasizing India’s commitment to fostering an open and results-oriented dialogue.

A central theme of India’s presidency is addressing the "development gap." Jaishankar pointed out that many nations in the Global South are struggling with food, energy, and fertilizer security, alongside limited access to finance. To counter this, he urged BRICS members to prioritize:

• Reliable Supply Chains: Moving away from over-dependence and toward diversified, resilient networks.
• Economic Sovereignty: Strengthening the ability of developing nations to respond to external shocks.

The Minister did not shy away from sensitive geopolitical issues. He reiterated India’s unwavering stance on the UN Charter, stressing that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity must remain the bedrock of international relations. Addressing the ongoing crises in West Asia, he warned that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea pose severe risks to global economic well-being.

Furthermore, Jaishankar issued a stern reminder on security, asserting that 'Zero Tolerance' toward cross-border terrorism must be a universal mandate, not a selective policy.

The summit is set to transition into sessions focused on "BRICS@20," exploring innovation and multilateral reforms. The visiting delegations are also scheduled for a joint call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signaling a unified push toward a more inclusive and equitable international order.