The BRICS summit in New Delhi brings together key leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, as the group seeks greater influence in a global system traditionally dominated by the United States and Western powers [1]. The summit occurs against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions, with the U.S. and Israel at war with Iran, ongoing U.S. sanctions and tariffs, and continued pressure on Moscow to resolve the war in Ukraine [1].
U.S. President Donald Trump's trade policies, including tariffs and sanctions, have disrupted relationships with both allies and rivals, prompting BRICS members to consider diversifying their trade and payment relationships [1]. While these policies are not the sole reason for increased dialogue among BRICS nations, they are contributing factors in their strategic calculations. India and Russia have maintained close ties for decades, and the recent thaw between India and China began prior to the latest U.S. trade tensions [1].
Xi Jinping's visit to India is his first since 2019, signaling a cautious improvement in relations following deadly border clashes in 2020. Both Modi and Xi are working to stabilize ties, with the restoration of flights, visas, and high-level contacts, though significant tensions remain over their disputed border, India's trade deficit with China, and broader strategic rivalry in Asia [1].
India continues to pursue strategic autonomy, balancing its relationships with Russia, Iran, China, and the United States. According to Chietigj Bajpaee, a senior research fellow for South Asia at Chatham House, recent strains with the Trump administration have led New Delhi to reinvest in other relationships [1]. The meeting between Modi and Xi is expected to further advance the ongoing reset in bilateral relations, building confidence after notable progress was made in August on their longstanding border dispute [1].
CONCLUSION
The BRICS summit in New Delhi underscores how U.S. tariffs, sanctions, and foreign policy are prompting major emerging economies to strengthen ties and diversify trade relationships. While divisions remain, the event signals a potential shift in global economic alliances, with India, China, Russia, and Iran seeking greater autonomy and cooperation amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.