New Delhi Prepares for 18th BRICS Summit with Regional Invitations

India is finalising arrangements for the 18th BRICS summit scheduled to take place in New Delhi next month. A key feature of the agenda is an outreach session that will welcome two South Asian neighbours – Bangladesh and Nepal – as non‑member participants.

The invitation is being framed as a catalyst for stronger South Asian ties and a more coordinated "global south" effort. Analysts note that the presence of the Bangladeshi and Nepali prime ministers could enhance collective regional participation in BRICS initiatives and pave the way for new bilateral projects.

The summit is set against a climate of growing global instability, often referred to as a "global un‑order" where coercive tactics are undermining established norms. India, holding the BRICS presidency, is positioning itself as a proponent of peace, resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.

By bringing Bangladesh and Nepal into the summit, India aims to broaden the base of support for multilateral dialogue on economic development, shared challenges and regional connectivity. The outreach also offers a diplomatic window to reset strained bilateral relations after recent political changes in both countries.

Reports indicate that Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar may travel to Kathmandu to extend a formal invitation to the Nepali premier, underscoring the significance of the outreach. The invitation is expected to help Nepal align more closely with the global‑south agenda while preserving India's balanced foreign‑policy approach toward China.