India-China border dispute, stronger BRICS cooperation: What PM, Xi discussed

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed regional diplomacy and the BRICS framework, stating, 'We have no problems with the UAE' and describing regional nations as brothers with long-standing trade ties. He identified US military bases across the region as the source of aggression against Iran's people and infrastructure. Pezeshkian noted that Washington seeks to exploit regional energy resources and create division. On BRICS, he highlighted ongoing efforts toward a joint communique, collaborative investments via the New Development Bank, and reducing reliance on the US dollar to challenge unilateralism.

In an interview at the BRICS Summit, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed regional conflicts, bilateral cooperation with India, and resistance to unilateral economic measures. Defending his country against accusations, Pezeshkian stated, "You see, we did not start the war. They started the war." He highlighted Iran's strategic geopolitical role as a connectivity crossroads and underscored readiness to revive historic trade routes like the Silk Road with India through investments in Chabahar Port. Pezeshkian noted that ongoing discussions with the Indian Prime Minister cover broader investment partnerships, trade, and economic networks. Discussing US sanctions, he affirmed that BRICS aims to break unilateralism and totalitarianism in global commerce alongside major economies like China, India, and Russia.

Union ministers and chief ministers arrived at Bharat Mandapam in a special bus from Parliament to attend a gala dinner hosted on the opening day of the 18th BRICS Summit in the national capital. The venue is hosting leaders and delegates from twenty-one nations. The official gathering comes amid diplomatic engagements and the anticipation of a possible joint statement following bilateral discussions, highlighting both formal proceedings and broader diplomatic outreach during the summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit 2026. The two leaders welcomed the progress in India-China relations and affirmed taking a strategic, long-term perspective, noting differences should not become disputes. Prime Minister Modi highlighted that ties must be guided by mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interest, emphasizing that peace and tranquillity in border areas remain essential for developing bilateral relations. Both sides agreed on resolving the boundary issue fairly and observing existing agreements. Discussions also addressed structural trade imbalances, supply chain issues, market access, and expanding people-to-people exchanges.