Iran war reshapes Brics ties but also exposes divisions

A gathering of world leaders in Delhi over the weekend highlighted the shifting dynamics of Brics ties while also exposing internal divisions within the group. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for the alliance to become "rule-shapers" rather than "rule-takers," alongside leaders from China, Russia, Iran, Abu Dhabi and South Africa.

This diverse collection of nations is hardly natural allies, with histories of border disputes and military confrontations. Despite their differences, they gathered to reassess their relationships in the wake of the Iran war.

Modi sought to portray Brics as a counterweight to Western influence, but diplomats noted the reluctance of some members to fully embrace this narrative. The summit's primary accomplishment was the adoption of a joint declaration, though the text avoided taking sides on pressing issues. While it called for maximum restraint in the Middle East war and condemned civilian infrastructure attacks, it refrained from assigning blame.

No specific mention was made of Russia's war in Ukraine, signaling a divergence from previous Brics statements.

On trade, the declaration expressed concerns over rising tariffs and unilateral sanctions but avoided naming the United States. This approach likely averted potential anger from Washington, which has previously criticized Brics for proposals such as linking central-bank digital currencies. The summit also offered an opportunity for high-level meetings between adversaries, including a face-to-face discussion between Iran's President Pezeshkian and Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince.

Iran utilized the occasion to seek economic ties with Brics members, particularly Malaysia, India, and Ethiopia.

China's President Xi Jinping, making his first visit to Delhi in seven years, had a cordial meeting with Modi, though the meeting was less formal than usual. While relations between China and India have been strained, especially following the 2020 border clash, there are signs of easing tensions. The leaders agreed to strengthen business ties and address obstacles to trade.

Overall, the summit demonstrated Brics' potential to provide a platform for nations to engage and maneuver outside Western-dominated institutions, but the path forward in shaping a new global order remains uncertain.