BRICS leaders called for “maximum restraint” in the Middle East on Saturday, as the expanded grouping sought common ground over a conflict that has exposed divisions among its members..
The bloc adopted a joint declaration at its summit in New Delhi, expressing “deep concern” over escalating tensions in the Middle East and calling for a multilateral approach to resolving disputes.
The declaration condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure and nuclear facilities operating under safeguards, warning of the risks posed to nuclear safety and security.
It also reaffirmed BRICS’ support for the Palestinian cause, including opposition to the forced displacement of Palestinians and changes to the demographic or geographic character of occupied Palestinian territory.
The group called for an end to the violence in Gaza, backed continued support for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees and supported full United Nations membership for Palestine.
The agreement was notable after BRICS foreign ministers failed to reach a joint statement when they met in New Delhi in May, amid divisions among members over the Middle East conflict.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian were among the leaders attending the two-day summit hosted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is also in attendance.
Xi said the war in the Middle East did not serve the interests of the international community and called for BRICS countries to play a greater role in promoting peace.
The summit comes as wars, trade tensions and disruptions to energy and shipping routes put pressure on the grouping, which has expanded significantly in recent years.
Modi called for greater representation for developing countries in international institutions, arguing that the Global South should have a stronger role in shaping global rules.
“We have to transform this pyramid of privilege into a platform of partnership,” Modi told the gathering.
BRICS also criticised unilateral tariffs and other trade measures, warning that such actions could disrupt global trade and supply chains.
The declaration backed greater economic cooperation among members, including efforts to expand cross-border payment systems and cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence.
The bloc also renewed its call for reform of the United Nations and greater representation for developing countries in international institutions.
The summit has also provided an opportunity for India and China to try to repair relations after years of tensions.
Xi’s visit to India is his first since 2019. He and Modi met on the sidelines of the summit and discussed efforts to improve bilateral ties, including the disputed border between the two countries.
The summit continues in New Delhi today (Sunday). - The National team, with additional reporting by AFP