India will host the 18th [1] BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Sept. 12-13, 2026 [1, 2].
The gathering comes as wars, trade tensions, and geopolitical rivalries reshape the world order. It serves as a platform for India to demonstrate its diplomatic ability to balance relationships between the U.S., Russia, China, and Iran [2].
Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi are expected to attend the event [1]. The presence of these leaders in the Indian capital underscores the summit's role in coordinating the interests of major non-Western powers.
In preparation for the summit, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval visited China [1]. This diplomatic outreach signals New Delhi's effort to manage bilateral tensions with Beijing before the heads of state meet.
The 18th [1] edition of the summit will focus on the transition toward a multipolar world. India aims to position itself as a bridge between competing global blocs, a strategy that requires navigating complex security and economic ties with both Western allies and BRICS partners [2].
New Delhi has not released a full agenda for the Sept. 12-13 [1] dates, but the summit is expected to address the evolving landscape of international trade and governance. The event will mark one of the most significant diplomatic gatherings in the region this year.
“India will host the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13, 2026.”
By hosting the BRICS summit, India is attempting to solidify its role as a leader of the Global South. The invitation of leaders from Russia, China, and Iran—while maintaining strong ties with the U.S.—highlights New Delhi's 'strategic autonomy' policy. The success of the summit will depend on whether India can facilitate cooperation between member states that often hold conflicting territorial and political interests.
