Top international figures reach New Delhi for global diplomacy
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres landed in New Delhi on Friday to participate in the upcoming 18th BRICS Summit. Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar formally welcomed him upon landing. This prominent gathering takes place against a backdrop of severe geopolitical friction and shifting global alliances, highlighting India's growing diplomatic influence.
Key dignitaries reach Indian Capital
Global leaders are swiftly converging on India for these critical multilateral discussions. Russian President Vladimir Putin also touched down and was greeted by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh. Other high-ranking Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, arrived earlier in the day to prepare for the sessions.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo reached the national capital as well. Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary received them. South Africa represents a core member state, whereas Uganda participates as one of ten designated partner nations.
Other notable attendees joining the diplomatic talks include Uruguay’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mario Lubetkin, Nigeria’s Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa P Lazaro. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank President Zou Jiayi is also present for the event.
India takes leadership role
Delegates will convene on September 12 and 13 under India’s 2026 Chairship. This year’s core theme focuses on building resilience, driving innovation, enhancing cooperation, and promoting sustainability. Planners hope to guide emerging economies from the Global South toward effective collaboration in technology, finance, and trade.
Presently, the international coalition features 11 permanent members: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. These states collectively represent 49.5 percent of the global population. Furthermore, they account for 40 percent of global GDP and handle 26 percent of all worldwide trade.
Indian policymakers plan to use their leadership term to forge meaningful consensus among this diverse group. Officials want to generate tangible outcomes regarding climate action, financial resilience, and reforms within global institutions, navigating successfully through economic fragmentation and technological disruptions.
With Inputs from Agency Threads and Photo Courtesy: ANI