Amid conflict, India sends out invites for key BRICS meetings, Pg10

Key Highlights:

• India has sent invitations for the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in May and the 18th BRICS Summit on September 9-10.
• The meetings aim to address the West Asia conflict, despite differing opinions among member states.
• The 10-nation grouping includes Iran and the United Arab Emirates, who have been hesitant to issue joint statements.
• The summit in September is expected to bring together leaders from Russia, China, Brazil, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE.

Detailed Insights:

• India, as the current Chair of BRICS, faces challenges in achieving consensus on the West Asia conflict due to the diverse perspectives of member states.
• The BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in May will provide an opportunity to discuss international issues and the role of BRICS in the world.
• In June 2025, under Brazil's chairmanship, BRICS issued a strong statement condemning military strikes against Iran, indicating the group's potential for unified action.
• The inclusion of Iran and the UAE in the BRICS grouping adds complexity to discussions on regional conflicts, given their differing stances.

Key Concepts Involved:

• BRICS: An intergovernmental organization comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aimed at promoting economic and political cooperation.

BRICS+

• Consensus: General agreement among a group of people.
• Chair: The presiding officer of an organization.