External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar welcomed foreign ministers and delegates to the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
This gathering serves as a critical diplomatic milestone for India as it prepares to lead the bloc. The meeting establishes the framework for cooperation and policy alignment under India's upcoming leadership role.
The event is a cornerstone of India's 2026 [1] BRICS chairmanship. By hosting the foreign ministers, New Delhi aims to streamline the agenda for the broader summit and solidify ties among the member nations. The venue, Bharat Mandapam, has been designated to accommodate the high-level delegations and the various diplomatic protocols required for the summit.
Beyond the primary multilateral discussions, the gathering includes multiple bilateral meetings on the sidelines [2]. These one-on-one sessions allow member states to address specific regional concerns and trade agreements that may not be the primary focus of the general assembly.
Jaishankar's role in welcoming the delegates emphasizes India's intent to project itself as a bridge between the global south and other major economies. The diplomatic activity in New Delhi this week reflects a broader strategy to maximize the influence of the BRICS partnership during India's tenure as chair [1].
“India will hold the BRICS chairmanship in 2026”
India's hosting of the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting signals its intent to steer the bloc's strategic direction during its 2026 chairmanship. By facilitating both multilateral and bilateral talks, New Delhi is positioning itself as a central mediator within the alliance, focusing on expanding the group's influence in global governance and economic policy.





