External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar welcomed and addressed foreign ministers and representatives from BRICS member and observer nations in New Delhi [1].

The gathering serves as a cornerstone of India's 2026 BRICS chairmanship [1]. By hosting this diplomatic assembly, India seeks to steer the agenda of the intergovernmental organization during its presidency [1].

The meeting took place at Bharat Mandapam, the premier exhibition and convention center in New Delhi [1]. Jaishankar said the delegates represent a diverse group of member states and partner nations involved in the BRICS framework [1].

This event is part of a broader series of diplomatic engagements scheduled for 2026 [1]. The foreign ministers' meeting provides a platform for these nations to coordinate policies and discuss regional stability, a key objective for the current chairmanship [1].

India's role as the chair allows it to influence the strategic direction of the bloc. The presence of observer nations alongside full members indicates an effort to expand the group's global reach and collaborative potential [1].

As the host, the Indian government is utilizing the Bharat Mandapam facility to facilitate high-level bilateral and multilateral discussions. These talks are intended to set the stage for the larger BRICS summit later in the year [1].

“India is hosting the meeting as part of its 2026 BRICS chairmanship”

India's 2026 chairmanship of BRICS places New Delhi at the center of a coalition aimed at providing an alternative to Western-led global governance. By hosting the Foreign Ministers' Meeting, India is positioning itself as a bridge between the Global South and established economic powers, utilizing its presidency to shape international trade and security norms.