Modi, Putin, and Xi Jinping Showcase Unity at BRICS Summit

During the BRICS summit held on September 12 and 13 in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping were photographed holding hands, demonstrating a significant moment of camaraderie among the three leaders. This marked the third occasion in just over two years that they have met, a context that underscores ongoing geopolitical challenges.

The gathering takes place while India serves as the host for the annual BRICS summit, a fact amplifying the weight of this display of unity. Notably, Xi Jinping made his first visit to India in seven years, his previous trip being in 2019 for an informal summit with Modi. Their relations saw a significant downturn due to the 2020 territorial standoff, which had trapped ties in a complex situation reaching back to the 1962 border conflict.

Since then, reports indicate a thaw in relations, particularly following a disengagement agreement reached in October 2024 regarding troop presence at various friction points in the Ladakh sector of the Line of Actual Control. In a parallel development, Putin visited India in December 2025, highlighting the ongoing engagements between the two nations.

The BRICS summit also attracted leaders beyond just the three heads of state. Among others in attendance were Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.

On the first day of the summit, member nations reached a consensus on a joint declaration. Modi announced that the New Delhi Declaration 2026 received unanimous support from all present. This declaration condemned the unilateral measures imposed by certain nations and expressed concerns regarding the rising risk of nuclear confrontations and conflicts.

Furthermore, it highlighted the need for nuclear safeguards even in armed conflicts, indicating a strong sentiment towards international co-operation in security matters. It called for collaborative efforts to ensure a smooth flow of global trade and energy, addressing the recent uptick in unilateral tariffs and trade barriers that contravene World Trade Organisation rules.

The document emphasised a multilateral approach to global challenges, underscoring respect for diverse national positions on crucial issues. The declaration reaffirmed the commitment of the BRICS nations to uphold international law and the principles set forth in the United Nations Charter.

As the BRICS summit continues, its outcomes and discussions will likely influence future geopolitical alignments and collaborative efforts among participating nations in addressing pressing global issues.