BRICS Summit 2026: PM Modi Addresses Open Session, Schedules 7 Bilateral Meetings

The two-day BRICS Summit 2026, hosted by India in New Delhi, has reached its concluding day today. This significant international gathering, which commenced on September 12, saw a series of high-level discussions on global governance, multilateralism, and strengthening cooperation across vital sectors. The final day began with the arrival of world leaders and a symbolic group family photo, followed by an impactful open session addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while during his speech, the Prime Minister highlighted India's role in advancing the spirit of friendship and partnership among member nations, setting a collaborative tone for the future of the bloc.

Morning Engagements and the Official Family Photo

The proceedings for the final day started at 10:00 AM as the heads of state from BRICS member countries, partner nations, and specially invited outreach countries arrived at the summit venue. At approximately 10:40 AM, the leaders gathered for the official BRICS family photo, representing the unity of the expanded 11-member group. The current membership of BRICS includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia. This diverse representation reflects the group's significant role in the modern geopolitical landscape.

The Main Open Session and Startup Innovation Fund

At 11:00 AM, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the main open session of the BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam. The theme for this session was Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability: Shaping the Future for Inclusive Global Growth. In his address, PM Modi emphasized the need for inclusive growth and proposed the establishment of a BRICS Startup Innovation Fund. This proposal aims to foster entrepreneurial spirit and technological advancement across the member nations, ensuring that the benefits of innovation reach all corners of the global south.

PM Modi's Intensive Bilateral Schedule

On the sidelines of the main summit, Prime Minister Modi has a packed schedule involving bilateral meetings with the heads of state and representatives from seven different countries, while these meetings are crucial for strengthening India's individual ties with these nations.

• At 2:30 PM, the Prime Minister will meet with the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.
• At 3:00 PM, a meeting is scheduled with the President of the Philippines, Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
• At 3:30 PM, PM Modi will hold talks with the President of Egypt, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.
• At 4:10 PM, he will meet with the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa.
• At 4:40 PM, a bilateral session will take place with the President of Burundi, Evariste Ndayishimiye.
• At 5:10 PM, the Prime Minister will meet the Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima.
• At 5:40 PM, the final bilateral meeting of the day will be with the Vice President of Uganda, Jessica Alupo.

India's BRICS Presidency and Strategic Priorities

India officially assumed the BRICS presidency for the fourth time on January 1, 2026. Having previously led the group in 2012, 2016, and 2021, India's current tenure is focused on the theme Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability. Central to India's approach is the principle of humanity first, ensuring that people remain at the heart of all developmental and diplomatic efforts. Throughout its presidency, India has organized more than 350 meetings and high-level events across 25 different cities. These engagements have focused on three primary pillars: political and security cooperation, economic and financial cooperation, and cultural and people-to-people contact. 5% of the world's population, 40% of the global GDP, and 26% of international trade.