BRICS nations on Saturday unanimously adopted a joint declaration expressing “deep concern” over the escalating conflict in the Middle East and called for maximum restraint, while stressing the need for a multilateral approach that takes into account the perspectives of individual countries.
The New Delhi Declaration, approved on the opening day of the BRICS leaders’ annual summit, comes amid renewed exchanges of strikes between the United States and Iran following a relative lull in hostilities during much of August.
With Iran among the BRICS members and the United Arab Emirates maintaining close ties with Washington, reaching consensus on a joint statement was seen as a significant diplomatic challenge for India, which is hosting the summit.
“We express deep concern over the continued escalation of tensions in the Middle East,” the declaration said, calling on all sides to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from actions that could further worsen the situation.
The BRICS leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to resolving international disputes peacefully through dialogue, consultation and diplomacy.
The declaration further raised concerns over the growing use of “unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures”, warning that such steps can distort international trade. The issue comes against the backdrop of US sanctions on Iran amid its conflict with Washington, as well as sanctions imposed on Russia over the war in Ukraine.
The BRICS grouping comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.
