Lavrov Hosts BRICS Envoys as India Leads Bloc’s Strategic Agenda in 2026

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hosted ambassadors from BRICS member and partner countries in Moscow this week, highlighting the need to deepen strategic cooperation within the grouping as India assumes the 2026 BRICS chairmanship . The meeting underscored the bloc’s expanding global role and its efforts to strengthen coordination among emerging economies amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

India formally took over the rotating presidency on January 1, 2026 , guiding the agenda of the expanded 10-member bloc. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the envoys exchanged views on enhancing strategic partnership while aligning efforts with the priorities outlined under India’s leadership. In a symbolic gesture reflecting India’s central role, Indian Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar stood beside Lavrov in the official group photograph released after the meeting.

During a working lunch, diplomats discussed pressing international issues and emphasized preserving the central role of the United Nations in maintaining global peace and stability. They also stressed the need to reform global governance institutions to better reflect current geopolitical realities and increase the voice and influence of countries representing the Global South.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination among BRICS members in key multilateral forums and raising the grouping’s international profile. With its recent expansion, BRICS now includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates , significantly boosting its geopolitical reach and economic weight.

Collectively, BRICS nations represent nearly half of the world’s population , about 40 percent of global GDP , and roughly a quarter of global trade , reinforcing the bloc’s growing influence in global economic governance.

India has outlined its chairmanship priorities under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” The agenda emphasizes inclusive growth, technological collaboration, climate resilience, sustainable development, and stronger South-South cooperation. These priorities were presented during the first BRICS Sherpas and Sous Sherpas meeting held in New Delhi on February 9–10 .

The Moscow meeting is seen as a precursor to deeper engagement ahead of the 2026 BRICS Summit in India , where leaders are expected to advance economic partnerships, governance reforms, and coordinated responses to global challenges.