New Delhi will host the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on May 14-15, 2026.
Chaired by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, the summit serves as a critical precursor to the leaders’ summit scheduled for September under India’s BRICS presidency.
Key Attendees and Diplomatic Shifts
Russia: Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will attend to discuss the September summit and coordinate Vladimir Putin’s upcoming visit to India.
China: Foreign Minister Wang Yi will be absent due to a scheduling conflict with U.S. President Donald Trump’s state visit to Beijing (May 13-15).
Iran: Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is confirmed to attend, representing Tehran amidst regional instability.
Focus on Middle East Conflict
The meeting occurs during a period of high regional volatility following the outbreak of conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran in February. Central discussion points include:
Iran-UAE Tensions: Addressing Tehran’s targeting of UAE energy infrastructure and allegations regarding Abu Dhabi’s ties with the West.
The Gaza Crisis: BRICS members are expected to maintain a firm stance on Palestine, resisting efforts to soften the bloc’s rhetoric regarding the situation in Gaza.
Strategic Goals
The ministers aim to draft the final policy documents that will define the September Summit agenda. Beyond regional security, the talks will focus on strengthening intra-bloc cooperation and navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of 2026.
