New Delhi, September 13, 2026

BRICS leaders have condemned the April 2025 terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir in the New Delhi Declaration adopted at their summit. They also called for restraint in West Asia and closer cooperation on trade and cross-border payments.

The declaration was adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit hosted by India on September 12 and 13. It sets out the group’s position on security, the global economy and development amid conflicts and disruptions to trade.

The reference to the Jammu and Kashmir attack is particularly significant. BRICS leaders condemned the April 22, 2025, attack, which killed 26 people. They called for action against the cross-border movement of terrorists, terror financing and safe havens. The leaders urged zero tolerance for terrorism and rejected double standards in dealing with it. The declaration did not name any country in connection with the Kashmir attack.

On West Asia, the leaders expressed deep concern over rising tensions and called for “maximum restraint”. They urged the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, respect for the sovereignty of states and greater use of dialogue to prevent further escalation.

The declaration also stressed the need to keep global trade, supply chains and energy moving. According to reports, differences between Iran and the United Arab Emirates had made agreement on West Asia a challenge. Both countries backed the final statement.

The leaders addressed Gaza separately. They called for the ceasefire to be maintained and for unhindered humanitarian access. They also reaffirmed support for a peaceful settlement based on a two-state solution.

On the economic front, BRICS leaders pressed for reform of international institutions to give emerging and developing countries a greater voice. They expressed concern over unilateral tariffs and other trade restrictions that they said could disrupt supply chains and slow global growth.

The declaration acknowledged work on linking payment channels between member countries. It also noted discussions on using local currencies for trade and investment, while recognising that members have different national priorities. It did not announce a common BRICS currency or a completed payments system.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the summit under India’s theme of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability. The declaration recorded the work carried out during India’s chairmanship and expressed support for China to take over the BRICS chairmanship in 2027.

The New Delhi Declaration brings the members together on several difficult issues. Work on payments, trade and other proposals will continue under the next chairmanship.