BRICS Leaders Gather in New Delhi as Expanded Coalition Pushes for Global Governance Reform

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —BRICS leaders have gathered in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, with the expanded coalition seeking a stronger voice for the Global South and a greater role in shaping a more inclusive and representative international order.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and a high-level Ethiopian delegation are participating in the September 12–13 summit, hosted by India under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

The summit comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, trade disruptions and growing calls for reform of the global governance system.

 

Addressing the summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a major overhaul of global governance, saying reform of the United Nations Security Council “cannot be delayed any longer” and urging BRICS countries to help transform the Global South from a “rule-taker” into a “rule-shaper.”

Prime Minister Modi stressed that BRICS is not directed against any country or bloc, but should use its growing influence to advance a more representative, inclusive and balanced international order.

Against this backdrop, leaders are expected to advance cooperation in trade and investment, food and energy security, health, technology, connectivity, disaster resilience and critical supply chains.

The opening session focuses on “Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism,” while the main leaders’ session on September 13 will address “Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability: Shaping the Future for Inclusive Global Growth.” The summit is expected to culminate in the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration.

From its five founding members to 11 full members today, BRICS has evolved into a major force in the global economy, representing nearly half of the world’s population and accounting for a significant share of global economic output and trade.

Ethiopia joined BRICS in January 2024 alongside Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, while Indonesia became a full member in 2025.

 

The expanded bloc now represents nearly half of the world’s population, around 40 percent of global GDP and about 26 percent of global trade.

For Ethiopia, the New Delhi summit offers a high-level platform to deepen engagement with the Global South, expand economic and development partnerships, and contribute to discussions on a more inclusive, balanced and representative international order.

Ethiopia’s participation further underscores its growing engagement in multilateral platforms and its efforts to advance cooperation in development, investment, technology, trade and other shared global priorities.