BRICS members involved in conflict, difficult to forge consensus: MEA, Pg7

Key Highlights:

• MEA stated that forging a consensus among BRICS members on the West Asia conflict is difficult due to the involvement of member countries.
• India, as the chair of BRICS for 2026, is facilitating discussions through the Sherpa channel; the last meeting was held on March 12.
• Iran requested India to issue a statement on behalf of BRICS condemning US and Israeli strikes.
• PM Modi has engaged with leaders from Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran following the outbreak of hostilities on February 28.

Detailed Insights:

• The inclusion of Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which host US bases and personnel, within BRICS, complicates diplomatic efforts due to their targeting by Iranian missiles.
• BRICS represents approximately 49.5% of the global population, around 40% of the global GDP, and about 26% of global trade, making it a significant global entity.
• EAM Jaishankar has had multiple conversations with his Iranian counterpart since the start of the conflict, discussing bilateral and BRICS-related issues.
• India is expected to host the BRICS leaders' summit later in 2026, highlighting its central role in the organization amidst geopolitical challenges.

Key Concepts Involved:

• BRICS: An intergovernmental organization comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and other emerging economies.
• Sherpa Channel: A diplomatic channel used within BRICS where personal representatives of the leaders prepare the agenda for summits.
• Consensus: A general agreement among all the participants or members of a group.