India is set to host foreign ministers from BRICS nations, including Iran and the United Arab Emirates, in May as part of a crucial meeting taking place amid the escalating West Asia crisis.
The BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meet is scheduled for May 14–15 in New Delhi, ahead of the 17th BRICS Summit under India’s chairmanship.
Diplomatic Balancing Act for India
The meeting comes at a sensitive time, with several BRICS members directly involved in the ongoing conflict triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year. The war has disrupted global energy markets, especially due to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments.
As the current chair of BRICS, India is working to build consensus among member countries on issuing a joint statement regarding the crisis. However, differing positions within the group have made it difficult to reach agreement.
Key Members to Participate
India has invited all BRICS nations to the meeting. Confirmed participants include Russia, along with other members such as Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa.
Russia has already confirmed the participation of its foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov.
Pressure Over Joint Statement
Iran has urged India to use its leadership position to issue a formal statement condemning the US-Israeli military actions. This request has placed New Delhi in a delicate diplomatic position, as balancing the interests of all member nations remains a challenge.
India has acknowledged that the involvement of multiple BRICS countries in the conflict complicates efforts to form a unified stance.
Setting the Agenda
Earlier this year, India hosted the first BRICS Sherpa meeting in New Delhi, laying the groundwork for discussions under the theme of resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability.
The upcoming foreign ministers’ meeting is expected to play a key role in shaping the group’s response to global challenges, particularly the ongoing crisis in West Asia.