Indian EAM Jaishankar Holds Strategic Talks with Key Counterparts on BRICS Sidelines

On the sidelines of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Russia, Iran, and Mexico. These were aimed at reinforcing India's diplomatic outreach amid a shifting global order.

In his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Jaishankar reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on developments in West Asia, multilateral frameworks such as BRICS, and coordination within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Both leaders reaffirmed the strategic depth of India-Russia ties in the context of evolving geopolitical challenges.

Image Source: MEA/FM on X

The Indian minister also met with Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi. The discussion centered on pressing regional issues, reflecting the two countries’ continued engagement on developments in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf. 

The meeting comes at a time when regional stability and connectivity projects, including those related to the Chabahar Port and the International North-South Transport Corridor, remain high on the bilateral agenda.

Later, Jaishankar sat down with Juan Ramón de la Fuente, Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs. The conversation focused on expanding cooperation in key areas such as public health, digital innovation, space technology, and broader scientific collaboration. 

The dialogue underlined India’s intent to deepen engagement with Latin America’s largest Spanish-speaking economy, particularly in sectors aligned with sustainable development and technological advancement.

The 17th BRICS Summit, hosted by Brazil, brings together leaders and ministers from a now-expanded bloc. Since its inception by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS has grown to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates in 2024, with Indonesia joining in 2025. 

The grouping now represents nearly half the world’s population and a significant share of global GDP and trade, enhancing its relevance as a voice for the Global South.

Through these bilateral engagements, India continues to position itself as a key player in shaping global multilateral discourse and regional cooperation, emphasizing dialogue, partnership, and shared growth.