Source: NDTV
Introduction
India has officially welcomed international delegates as it hosts the high-profile 18th BRICS summit. The diplomatic gathering brings together major global figures, highlighted by Chinese President Xi Jinping beginning his first visit to the nation in seven years.
The high-stakes diplomatic conference coincides with a major milestone for the geopolitical bloc. As world leaders gather to address pressing international affairs, observers eagerly await the official BRICS joint statement scheduled for release today.
What Happened
The 18th BRICS summit officially commenced on September 12 and is scheduled to conclude on September 13. India assumed the prestigious Chairship of the bloc earlier this year on January 1, setting the operational agenda for the current term.
Prominent international heads of state are actively participating in the multi-day discussions. Among the attendees are Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, alongside several other distinguished government leaders.
Background
The influential geopolitical alliance originally comprised Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The coalition underwent a significant expansion phase in 2024, welcoming Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia into its fold, followed by Indonesia joining the group in 2025.
Further broadening its international diplomatic reach, the bloc established official partner country relations with ten additional nations last year. This secondary tier includes Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 1 | India officially assumed the BRICS Chairship |
| September 10 | BRICS Bazaar themed 'Crafting Culture, Connecting People' opened |
| September 12 | The 18th BRICS summit commenced with global leaders attending |
| September 13 | The 18th BRICS summit concludes, alongside the release of the joint statement |
| September 15 | The BRICS Bazaar cultural exhibition concludes |
Key Details
The current year marks the 20th anniversary since the formal establishment of the BRICS bloc. Over the past two decades, the organization has progressively matured into a comprehensive framework designed to foster multilateral cooperation.
Cooperation within the coalition operates across three foundational pillars. These core areas encompass political and security matters, economy and finance initiatives, and cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
Impact
The high-level discussions reinforce bilateral and multilateral ties among member states spanning multiple continents. By integrating expanded member nations and partner countries, the bloc continues to solidify its influence in shaping global economic and political frameworks.
Cultural diplomacy also plays a central role during the summit proceedings, highlighted by public-facing exhibitions. The BRICS Bazaar provides a platform to showcase diverse traditions and foster closer interpersonal connections under the specific theme of crafting culture and connecting people.
What Happens Next
Delegates and international observers are awaiting the release of the official BRICS joint statement today, which will outline the collective consensus reached during the summit. Meanwhile, the concurrent BRICS Bazaar cultural exhibition remains open to visitors through September 15.
