BRICS Adopts New Delhi Declaration, Urges Restraint in Middle East
BRICS leaders unanimously adopted the New Delhi Declaration, voicing concern over Middle East tensions and urging maximum restraint.
BRICS nations unanimously adopted a joint declaration on Saturday, the opening day of their annual leaders' summit in New Delhi, expressing deep concern over the continuing escalation of tensions in the Middle East and calling for maximum restraint.
The statement, named the New Delhi Declaration, urged members to avoid actions that could worsen the situation. It was adopted as the United States and Iran resumed tit-for-tat strikes following a pause in fighting through much of August.
Securing consensus was seen as a difficult task for host India, given that the bloc counts both Iran and Washington's ally the United Arab Emirates among its members.
The declaration reaffirmed the grouping's commitment to resolving international disputes peacefully through dialogue, consultation and diplomacy.
Leaders also flagged the rise of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures that distort trade. The concern comes amid U.S. sanctions against Tehran over its war with Washington and against Russia over its conflict with Ukraine.
BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.