A panel discussion evaluates the New Delhi Declaration and the strategic outcomes of the BRICS summit, analysing the grouping's role as a catalyst for reformed multilateralism and an alternative platform for non-Western nations seeking strategic autonomy.

The discussion addresses global geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges, including the weaponisation of economic interdependence, unilateral coercive measures, tariffs, sanctions, and export restrictions affecting international trade and World Trade Organization norms.

Experts also assess India's diplomatic engagement with China and global governance reforms, alongside escalating tensions in West Asia involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. The geopolitical significance of maritime choke points, including the Strait of Hormuz, Bab-el-Mandeb, the Red Sea, and the Suez Canal, is reviewed in relation to global trade disruption, energy security, and regional stability ahead of key diplomatic dialogues involving the Gulf Cooperation Council nations in Muscat.

At the 20th BRICS Summit in India, member nations reportedly adopted the New Delhi Declaration by consensus, focusing on diplomatic dialogue and reformed multilateralism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for specific institutional changes, including time-bound negotiations for UN Security Council reform and the establishment of a seafarer emergency support network.

The document further addressed nuclear risks, opposition to unilateral trade measures, and the development of cross-border payment mechanisms.

In an exclusive interview, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian asserted that Tehran would not capitulate to the United States or Israel and attributed regional instability to Washington, describing Iranian military actions as retaliatory. He also addressed issues including Houthi operations in the Bab el-Mandab strait, relations with the UAE, and the presence of US bases in the region.

Additionally, Pezeshkian indicated a willingness to engage in direct, precondition-free dialogue with US President Donald Trump.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met Indian President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, reportedly following a prior bilateral engagement with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During a subsequent interview with India Today, Pezeshkian characterized the bilateral relationship as steadily improving and described the nations' civilizational ties as a foundation for countering what he termed "rising global totalitarianism.

" The discussion also addressed various unverified or broadly defined topics, including regional security dynamics in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's nuclear enrichment stance, and domestic economic conditions.