Strategic Outreach: Bilateral Engagements at BRICS 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bilateral meetings during the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 13, 2026, underscored India’s ambition to deepen strategic partnerships across the Indo-Pacific, Central Asia, and Africa. Discussions with leaders from the Philippines, Malaysia, Nigeria, Uganda, and the African Union highlighted defence cooperation, trade expansion, and technology collaboration. The Philippines, India’s strategic partner since August 2025, inked a landmark $375 million deal for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, marking its first foreign acquisition under the agreement. Simultaneously, exploratory talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim explored Kuala Lumpur’s interest in acquiring the same missile system, signaling growing regional defence alignment.

Defence and Security Cooperation: The BrahMos Factor

The BrahMos missile system, a joint Indo-Russian venture, represents India’s push for indigenous defence exports and strategic deterrence. As the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile, it has become a cornerstone of India’s defence diplomacy. The Philippines’ acquisition of the system under a $375 million deal not only strengthens New Delhi’s influence in Southeast Asia but also positions India as a key supplier of advanced weaponry to the Global South. Discussions with Nigeria and Uganda similarly focused on enhancing security infrastructure, reflecting India’s broader strategy to counterbalance China’s expanding footprint in Africa and Central Asia.

Economic and Technological Partnerships

Beyond defence, Modi’s engagements emphasized economic interdependence and technological innovation. With the Philippines, talks spanned fintech, education, and space technology, aiming to leverage India’s digital infrastructure and pharmaceutical capabilities. Nigeria discussions prioritized energy and agriculture, aligning with India’s vision to expand its $15 billion annual trade with African nations. Uganda’s focus on technology partnerships and private-sector collaboration highlighted opportunities for Indian firms in renewable energy and agro-processing, sectors where India holds comparative advantages.

BRICS Platform: A Multipolar Avenue for India

India’s participation in the BRICS summit served as a springboard for its multipolar diplomacy. The 2022 BRICS Communiqué’s endorsement of a $20 billion capital increase for the New Development Bank (NDB) reflects India’s advocacy for alternative financing mechanisms. By engaging with African and Asian partners, India seeks to counter Western-dominated institutions and position itself as a leader in the Global South. The NDB’s proposed $100 billion in new funding by 2025 could finance infrastructure projects in Africa and Central Asia, aligning with India’s strategic interests in energy corridors and trade routes.

Geoeconomic Underpinnings: Trade Routes and Energy Corridors

India’s outreach to Africa and Central Asia is deeply tied to securing energy security and trade connectivity. The India-Africa Forum Summit, held annually since 2008, has facilitated over $20 billion in bilateral investments, with sectors like mining, pharmaceuticals, and IT services driving growth. In Central Asia, India’s partnerships with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan focus on pipelines and logistics corridors, aiming to reduce reliance on the Malacca Strait. These efforts dovetail with India’s Act East Policy and Neighborhood First strategy, which prioritize regional stability and economic integration.

Strategic Implications: Balancing Power Dynamics

India’s diplomatic overtures at BRICS 2026 signal a calculated effort to navigate a multipolar world. By fostering defence and economic ties with African and Asian partners, India aims to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) while strengthening its own global influence. The BrahMos deal with the Philippines, for instance, challenges Beijing’s military presence in the South China Sea, where India has long advocated for freedom of navigation. Similarly, partnerships with African nations align with India’s vision of a “Global South” bloc that prioritizes sovereignty and non-interference, principles enshrined in the Sendai Framework for DRR and other multilateral agreements.

Conclusion: A New Era of Strategic Partnerships

Prime Minister Modi’s BRICS engagements reflect India’s transition from a regional power to a global strategic actor. By blending defence exports, economic investments, and technological collaboration, India is reshaping its diplomatic architecture to address emerging challenges—from energy security to geopolitical competition. As the NDB and BRICS continue to evolve, India’s role in fostering South-South cooperation will likely define its 21st-century global footprint.