Leaders of the BRICS grouping unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration on Saturday, calling for zero tolerance toward terrorism, expressing grave concern over rising nuclear risks, and issuing a unified pushback against unilateral economic sanctions and tariffs.
The consensus document was reached on the opening day of the summit following intense negotiations among the 11-member bloc, which includes nations with sharply differing foreign policy stances, such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, China, and Russia.
In a key diplomatic outcome, member nations explicitly condemned a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 25 tourists and heightened military tensions with Pakistan.
The statement called for the rejection of “double standards” in addressing terrorism and urged accountability for perpetrators and sponsors of terror acts. The consensus marks a notable shift given China’s longstanding alliance with Pakistan.
The declaration also called for the rapid adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, a global legal framework original proposed by India at the United Nations in 1996.
Addressing global security and escalating geopolitical strife, the bloc emphasised conflict prevention through dialogue and diplomacy. On the Middle East crisis, the statement called for maintaining a ceasefire in Gaza, ensuring the unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance, and supporting a two-state solution alongside full UN membership for Palestine.
Without explicitly naming the United States, the declaration voiced strong opposition to unilateral trade barriers, protectionist measures, and secondary economic sanctions. Leaders warned that such actions undermine economic development, global health initiatives, and food security across developing states.
The document also adopted sharper language regarding international arms control, warning of “growing risks” of nuclear danger and conflict amidst escalating military actions near nuclear infrastructure worldwide.
Furthermore, the bloc advocated for extensive structural reforms across major global governance institutions. The declaration called for expanding the voice and voting power of the Global South within the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, while reiterating support for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council, including backing enhanced roles for Brazil and India.
