BRICS nations have unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration 2026 at their landmark summit hosted by India, signaling a collective push toward conflict prevention, reformed global institutions, and a rebuke of protectionist trade policies.
The declaration, which covers issues ranging from terrorism to international trade and tariff disputes, reflects India's emphasis on resilience and cooperation during its chairmanship of the grouping in 2026. It underscores the member nations' commitment to resolving international disputes through peaceful means and strengthening multilateral frameworks that have faced mounting pressure in recent years.
A key feature of the document is the bloc's expressed concern over unilateral trade measures — a clear reference to tariffs and trade restrictions imposed by individual countries outside established multilateral processes. The members reaffirmed their support for a rules-based trading system and called for dialogue over economic coercion.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the summit, advocated for sweeping reforms in global governance structures. He stressed that institutions such as the United Nations Security Council and international financial bodies must better reflect the realities of the 21st century, with greater representation for the Global South — the developing nations of Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond that currently remain underrepresented in decision-making rooms.
India assumed the BRICS chairmanship this year with a focus on practical cooperation and strategic autonomy, seeking to position the grouping as a constructive force rather than merely a counterweight to Western-led alliances. The New Delhi Declaration is seen as a reflection of that approach — ambitious in its language but framed around consensus-driven action.
The summit brought together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newly expanded membership, marking one of the most significant gatherings of the bloc since its widening. Diplomatic sources said the declaration's unanimous adoption was notable given the diverse and sometimes divergent interests among member states.
Analysts say the document signals that BRICS intends to remain engaged on the world stage, advocating for a multipolar order while maintaining its own internal cohesion on core principles such as sovereignty, non-interference, and economic justice.
