BRICS sidelines emphasise defence and security cooperation at New Delhi summit
On 12–13 September 2026, leaders and ministers at the BRICS summit in New Delhi used bilateral sidelines to emphasise defence and security cooperation, with multiple meetings described as putting “defence, security cooperation in focus” during adoption of the New Delhi Declaration.
The desk brief
On 12–13 September 2026, leaders and ministers at the BRICS summit in New Delhi used bilateral sidelines to emphasise defence and security cooperation, with multiple meetings described as putting “defence, security cooperation in focus” during adoption of the New Delhi Declaration.
Deeper BRICS defence and security engagement is a geopolitical development that could, if it persists or formalises, raise risk premia for emerging-market sovereigns by altering investor risk appetite and refinancing optionality. For South Africa (a BRICS member), this may increase sensitivity of its USD sovereign spreads to global risk sentiment; any market impact would be conditional on concrete defence agreements or shifts in sanctions/relations.
Look for formal BRICS defence agreements, joint procurement MoUs, or stated military-cooperation frameworks in the coming months.
Sources & verification
Developing storyFurther independent confirmation is required.
- BRICS Summit 2026 September 13 highlights: Modi’s bilateral meetings on BRICS sidelines put defence, security cooperation in focusthehindu.comSource published (opens in a new tab)
- BRICS Summit 2026 Live Updates: Border peace ‘essential’ for ties - PM tells Xi both sides must honour existing pacts - The Times of Indiaindiatimes.comSource published (opens in a new tab)
Public references supporting this brief.