Leaders of the BRICS grouping adopted the New Delhi Declaration on the sidelines of the 18th summit in the Indian capital following overnight negotiations. The talks involved discussions over how the document should characterize the ongoing conflict in West Asia, driven by differences between Iran and the United Arab Emirates. India played a central role as summit host in bridging these gaps to secure consensus.
The final text calls for maximum restraint, civilian protection, and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, while expressing concern over attacks on civilian and peaceful nuclear facilities. Regarding Gaza, the declaration voices concern over continued violence despite a ceasefire last October, calls for sustained truce and humanitarian access, opposes forced displacement, and reaffirms support for Palestinian self-determination and a two-state solution. It also calls for a ceasefire in Sudan.
Beyond geopolitics, the leaders committed to deepening cooperation on cross-border payment systems, local currency use in trade, and joint infrastructure initiatives, while reiterating a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism. Indian officials described the adoption as a major diplomatic achievement.