The 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi ended with the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, showing that India successfully built consensus among members despite major differences over global conflicts and economic issues. The declaration focuses on the importance of reformed multilateralism, peaceful dispute resolution and stronger cooperation. It also raises concerns over unilateral tariffs, sanctions and other measures affecting global trade. India’s fourth BRICS chairship has therefore produced a joint document covering political, economic and development priorities.How Did BRICS Build Consensus?The biggest achievement of the 18th BRICS Summit and the New Delhi Declaration was bringing countries with different geopolitical interests together on one common document. India’s negotiators worked to bridge differences, particularly over West Asia, while keeping the focus on dialogue, cooperation and multilateralism. The final declaration also connects global governance reform with practical economic cooperation.BRICS members unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration.The document supports stronger and reformed multilateral institutions.Members raised concerns about unilateral tariffs and coercive economic measures.BRICS backed greater use of local currencies and improved cross-border payments.The declaration calls for dialogue and maximum restraint over West Asia tensions.India’s Diplomatic Balancing RoleIndia’s fourth BRICS chairship came at a difficult time, with conflicts and trade tensions creating divisions among members. The grouping includes countries with different foreign-policy positions, making consensus more difficult. India used its chairship to promote a practical, development-focused approach while keeping all members within the negotiating process.The challenge was especially visible over West Asia. Iran and the UAE had differing interests amid the regional conflict, yet both supported the final BRICS statement. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also met Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, marking their highest-level engagement since the conflict began.Declaration Sets Broader PrioritiesThe New Delhi Declaration places the importance of reformed multilateralism at the centre of BRICS cooperation. It calls for greater representation of emerging and developing countries in global decision-making and supports reform of international institutions. It also criticises unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures that BRICS says distort trade.On the economic side, BRICS is pushing for stronger intra-BRICS trade cooperation mechanisms, including more transactions in national currencies and better cross-border payment interoperability. Indian officials clarified that the focus is on reducing transaction costs and increasing trade rather than creating a common BRICS currency.Key HighlightsThe New Delhi Declaration was adopted unanimously at the 18th BRICS Summit.India highlighted the need for reform of the Security Council and wider representation for developing countries.BRICS criticised unilateral tariffs, non-tariff barriers and coercive measures that conflict with international rules.Members supported deeper intra-BRICS trade and transactions using local currencies.Iran and the UAE backed a joint call for restraint despite their differing positions over the regional conflict.India completed its fourth BRICS chairship and handed the chairship to China for 2027.What The Declaration Means For BRICSThe New Delhi Declaration shows how India used consensus-building to keep an expanded BRICS together despite geopolitical differences. Its focus on multilateral reform, trade cooperation and development reflects the grouping’s wider ambition to give emerging economies a stronger voice. The real test will now be converting these commitments into practical outcomes. China will take over the BRICS chairship in 2027 and will be expected to build on this framework.Disclaimer: This article is provided for knowledge purposes and to provide news information based on verified reports and official documents.
