New Delhi, Sept. 12 -- BRICS leaders have agreed on the New Delhi Declaration at the summit in the Indian capital, overcoming differences among member countries over the ongoing conflict in West Asia. The declaration is expected to underline the bloc's opposition to unilateral military action and aggression while avoiding naming any specific country.

The agreement comes after intense negotiations among the 11 BRICS members, particularly over the wording related to the conflict in West Asia. Iran and the United Arab Emirates have held differing positions on the conflict, making consensus on the final text a key challenge for the Indian presidency.

The declaration reflects an effort by the expanded grouping to present a united position on major international conflicts while maintaining consensus among countries with differing strategic interests. The leaders are expected to formally endorse the declaration during the summit.

The document is also expected to reaffirm the bloc's commitment to multilateralism, peaceful resolution of disputes and reforms in global governance institutions. India has been pushing for a stronger voice for the Global South and greater representation in institutions such as the United Nations Security Council.

The agreement is significant for India, which is hosting the BRICS summit amid the Russia-Ukraine war, the conflict in West Asia and growing tensions between major global powers. New Delhi has sought to keep BRICS focused on cooperation while avoiding the grouping being viewed solely as an anti-Western platform.

The declaration also comes after uncertainty over whether BRICS members would be able to issue a joint statement. Earlier discussions had faced difficulties because of disagreements over the West Asia conflict, with the foreign ministers' meeting failing to produce a consensus statement.

The adoption of the New Delhi Declaration therefore represents a diplomatic effort to preserve unity within the expanded BRICS grouping despite differences among its members.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.