NEW DELHI, Sept. 13: BRICS countries have expressed deep concern over rising tensions in the Middle East and called on all parties to exercise restraint. They have also pledged to work together to facilitate global trade, supply chains and energy flows.
The commitment was made through a joint declaration unanimously adopted at the two-day BRICS summit in India's capital, New Delhi. The summit is being chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, along with leaders from other member states, are attending the summit.
BRICS nations call for 'maximum restraint' in Middle East war
BRICS countries also condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack and pledged joint action against those who provide shelter to terrorists. Twenty-six people were killed in the attack on April 22, 2025.
The countries also agreed to prevent funding from reaching terrorists and take action against those providing them safe havens. They called for terrorism not to be linked to any religion, nationality or community.
The BRICS members also called for the early adoption of the proposed United Nations Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. They reaffirmed the bloc's core principles of mutual respect, sovereign equality, solidarity and consensus.
The BRICS countries also condemned unilateral tariff measures. Expressing concern over unilateral tariffs and trade restrictions, they said such measures should comply with World Trade Organization rules.
Nuclear risks were also discussed at the summit. BRICS members expressed concern over the threat of nuclear weapons use and rising global tensions.
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in India for the BRICS summit after a seven-year gap. It is his first visit to India since the Galwan Valley clash. After attending the summit, Xi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Modi on Sunday evening.
Earlier on Friday, Modi held talks with Russian President Putin. The two leaders agreed to further deepen India-Russia relations.
Modi also held discussions with Iranian President Pezeshkian, focusing on ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the safety of ship crews.
