Modi holds bilateral talks at BRICS Summit amid internal divisions

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a series of bilateral meetings with leaders from Iran, Vietnam, the UAE, Ethiopia, and Malaysia on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, which convened on September 12, 2026. The summit, chaired by India under the theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability," brings together the bloc's 11 members amid internal divisions, particularly over the West Asia conflict. Modi's meetings focused on strengthening economic, strategic, and development partnerships. On September 11, he met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, discussing bilateral ties and the evolving situation in West Asia. Modi reiterated India's position that outstanding issues must be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy, stressing the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers. Pezeshkian, addressing the BRICS Business Forum, called for the grouping to move beyond potential cooperation towards tangible economic outcomes. On September 12, Modi held talks with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.