Under India’s stewardship, the BRICS Sherpas and Sous-Sherpas convened their debut two-day summit in New Delhi on February 9-10, 2026, laying groundwork for transformative global partnerships. Sudhakar Dalela, BRICS Sherpa and Economic Secretary, chaired alongside Sous-Sherpa Shambhu L. Hakki, drawing officials from Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and UAE.
Anchored in Prime Minister Modi’s humane and inclusive framework, deliberations shaped agendas for ministerial and leaders’ meets. Key themes included bolstering institutions, deepening economic-political bonds, and advancing cooperation in health, agriculture, disaster resilience, eco-preservation, climate, energy, digital innovation, security, and trade.
Dr. S. Jaishankar inaugurated the BRICS 2026 identity, centered on ‘Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainable Development.’ Insightful inputs covered youth connectivity, cultural exchanges, sports initiatives, academic forums, think tanks, civil engagement, business councils, and women’s entrepreneurship.
Cultural outings to the National Handloom Museum, Handicrafts Academy, and Akshardham Temple enriched the dialogue. As presidential envoys—mirroring Sherpa mountaineers—the group pledged ongoing coordination. India’s presidency, assumed January 13, 2026, heralds a era of fortified South-South collaboration.