President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the role of BRICS in global governance reform during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The summit, held on September 12 and 13, 2026, brought together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. India played a central role in fostering consensus on trade and economic cooperation, despite tensions over the Middle East conflict.
A key diplomatic breakthrough occurred as BRICS nations adopted a joint declaration, overcoming divisions between Iran and the UAE. The agreement reflected a broader effort to bypass Western economic influence and strengthen multilateralism. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the summit's sidelines, signaling renewed efforts to mend ties strained by a border clash.
The summit also saw calls for "maximum restraint" in the Middle East, with BRICS members urging calm amid regional instability. Ramaphosa called for UN reform and greater accountability, highlighting the group's growing influence in shaping global governance. The BRICS nations continue to position themselves as a counterweight to Western-led institutions.
