17th BRICS Summit Kicks Off in Rio de Janeiro Amid Global Tensions

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: The 17th annual BRICS summit officially began today in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, bringing together leaders from major emerging economies amid escalating global geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Brazilian city earlier this week to attend the summit. The forum, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newly joined member Iran, is expected to deliberate on a range of pressing issues – from the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza to rising trade protectionism and regional conflicts.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are among the prominent figures participating in the summit. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who is hosting the summit, welcomed the delegates with a call for "global cooperation rooted in mutual respect and equitable development."

One of the central issues likely to dominate the discussions is the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, particularly Israel’s recent military operations in Gaza. The resulting humanitarian crisis has drawn international condemnation, and BRICS leaders are expected to release a joint statement addressing the situation.

With Iran now formally inducted into the BRICS alliance, the bloc’s stance on the Israel–Iran tensions is under close international scrutiny. Observers anticipate a more assertive tone in the BRICS declaration regarding Middle East stability and regional diplomacy.

India has called for strong language in the summit's joint communique condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Indian officials have emphasised the need for a united global stand against terrorism, especially from platforms like BRICS. The Indian Prime Minister also held bilateral talks with President Lula da Silva, discussing trade, climate action, and digital partnerships.

Another key topic on the agenda is the increasing trend of trade sanctions and tariffs, particularly from Western nations. BRICS leaders are expected to discuss ways to build resilience through local currency trade mechanisms, the expansion of the New Development Bank (NDB), and alternatives to traditional Western-dominated financial institutions. There is also a growing consensus within the bloc to promote a multi-polar world order and resist unilateralism in global governance.

BRICS, originally formed in 2006, represents over 40% of the global population and nearly a quarter of global GDP. With Iran’s entry, the group now seeks to position itself as a major counterweight to Western geopolitical and economic dominance. The summit will continue over the next two days, culminating in a joint declaration outlining the group’s positions on global peace, development, and cooperation.