Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with foreign ministers from Russia, Iran, Brazil, South Africa, and other BRICS counterparts in New Delhi [1].
These meetings occur as India prepares to lead the bloc, signaling its intent to shape the multilateral agenda for emerging economies. The discussions serve as a precursor to India's upcoming role as the group's chair [3].
The meetings took place on May 14-15, 2024 [1]. Among the officials present were Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, and South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola [1].
Representatives from five BRICS member countries were involved in the proceedings [4]. While diplomats from China attended the gathering, reports varied on whether Foreign Minister Wang Yi was among them [2, 4].
The discussions focused on multilateral cooperation and the strategic direction of the bloc. The gathering is particularly significant as India will assume the BRICS chairmanship in 2026 [3].
Modi's engagement with the Iranian delegation occurred amidst reports that he may also meet with Araghchi before a planned trip to the UAE [2]. The meetings in New Delhi emphasize India's role as a bridge between different global power centers, a key component of its current foreign policy strategy.
“India will assume the BRICS chairmanship in 2026”
By hosting these ministers and coordinating with key partners like Russia and Iran, India is consolidating its influence within the Global South. The focus on the 2026 chairmanship suggests that New Delhi is leveraging the BRICS platform to balance its strategic partnerships between Western allies and non-Western powers.
