Chinese Envoy Xu Feihong Hints At Xi-Modi Bilateral Meeting During BRICS Summit

Chinese Ambassador to India  has signalled that New Delhi and Beijing are actively working to arrange a bilateral meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the margins of the 18th BRICS Summit.

The envoy’s remarks, shared in a post on X, highlight the continued momentum in top-level diplomatic engagements between the two Asian powers.

If finalised, this meeting would mark the third consecutive year that the two leaders have met face-to-face, following their previous bilateral discussions in Kazan, Russia, and Tianjin, China.

The continuity of these interactions underscores the importance both sides attach to maintaining dialogue despite underlying tensions.

Ambassador Xu emphasised Beijing’s commitment to building a constructive relationship with New Delhi. He stated that China intends to follow the framework established by both heads of state, acting on their strategic guidance, handling relations from a long-term perspective, stepping up communication, enhancing cooperation, properly managing differences, and fostering good-neighbourliness.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Thursday that President Xi will attend the BRICS Summit in New Delhi from September 12 to 13 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi. This confirmation ended weeks of speculation over Beijing’s representation at the summit and set the stage for a closely watched India-China engagement.

India is hosting the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit at Bharat Mandapam, with the expanded grouping expected to deliberate on trade, financial cooperation, technology, artificial intelligence, energy security, climate action, and reforms of global institutions. The summit is being conducted under the theme ‘Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability’, with New Delhi seeking to place Global South priorities at the centre of the agenda.

Xi’s visit is particularly significant as it marks his first trip to India since his informal meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Mamallapuram in 2019 for the 2nd India-China Informal Summit. The visit comes amid efforts by both sides to stabilise bilateral ties following years of tensions along the Line of Actual Control.

Any interaction between PM Modi and President Xi during the BRICS gathering is expected to attract considerable diplomatic attention. The possibility of substantive engagement between the two leaders has emerged as one of the key developments surrounding the summit.

India’s Ambassador to China Vikram Doraiswami had earlier argued that India’s BRICS presidency should be used to deepen cooperation between the two powers. Writing in the Global Times, he recalled President Xi’s remarks to Prime Minister Modi last year, where Xi described India and China as cooperation partners rather than rivals, stressing that both countries are each other’s development opportunities rather than threats.

Doraiswami highlighted that peace along the India-China border remains central to the broader relationship. He urged that differences should not automatically develop into disputes and emphasised the need for mutual respect, sensitivity, and interest to guide the partnership.

On September 1, Prime Minister Modi and President Xi shared a handshake ahead of the family photograph at the SCO Summit in Bishkek, joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin. This symbolic interaction followed Modi’s invitation to Xi to attend the BRICS Summit, which Xi accepted while offering China’s support to India’s presidency.

With Xi’s presence now confirmed, the BRICS Summit provides India with a major platform for high-level diplomacy involving two of its most consequential strategic partners.

The gathering could carry significance beyond the BRICS agenda, particularly as New Delhi seeks to balance cooperation with both Moscow and Beijing while advancing its broader Global South priorities.

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Xi Jinping’s Delhi Arrival For BRICS Summit Marks Pivotal India-China Engagement

Chinese President Xi Jinping departed Beijing on Saturday morning for New Delhi to attend the 18th BRICS Summit at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His schedule includes a bilateral meeting with Modi later in the day.

Xi is accompanied by senior officials including Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, as well as Wang Yi, China’s foreign minister and a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee.

According to Xinhua, Xi is expected to advance proposals on Global South cooperation during the summit, continuing the themes he highlighted at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek.

Both BRICS and the SCO have expanded their membership and networks of developing partners. Together, their members represent more than half of the world’s population and around 30 per cent of the global economy.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the SCO’s founding and the 20th anniversary of the BRICS cooperation mechanism. Over the years, both groupings have broadened their reach and influence. Xi has consistently supported their expansion and introduced initiatives such as the “BRICS Plus” cooperation approach and the concept of building an SCO community with a shared future.

At the SCO Summit, Xi emphasised stronger cooperation among Global South nations. He described the SCO as rooted in the Global South, with its heart beating in the Global South, and as an important pillar of South-South cooperation. He also noted that BRICS stands at the forefront of the Global South.

China’s Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, underlined Beijing’s commitment to building a constructive relationship with New Delhi. He stated that China intends to act on the strategic guidance of both leaders, handle bilateral relations from a strategic height and long-term perspective, step up communication, enhance cooperation, properly manage differences, and remain good neighbours and partners who help each other succeed.

Xi’s visit is particularly significant as it marks his first trip to India since his informal meeting with Modi in Mamallapuram in 2019 during the second India-China Informal Summit.

The visit also comes amid efforts by both sides to stabilise ties following years of tensions along the Line of Actual Control.

BRICS has emerged as a key platform for coordinating economic policy among major emerging economies. It serves as the principal forum where these nations shape common positions on global governance. Through sustained dialogue, it has become a channel for advancing the interests of the Global South within multilateral institutions.

Its agenda spans development, finance, technology, trade and people-to-people exchanges. The grouping reflects the growing economic weight and aspirations of emerging economies globally. It provides members with a platform to share experiences and address common challenges.

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Acquisition of A Limited Fleet of Su-57 Stealth Jets Won’t Give India Immediate Air Power Edge

India’s evaluation of the Russian Su-57 stealth fighter remains cautious, with defence sources confirming that even if New Delhi decides to import a few aircraft now, the first Su-57 is unlikely to be operational before two years.

This delay reflects production bottlenecks, integration challenges, and the need for pilot training and infrastructure readiness.

India has been under pressure to bridge its fifth-generation fighter gap as China already operates the Chengdu J-20 and is developing the Shenyang J-35, while Pakistan has been offered the J-35.

The indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program remains years away, with service induction projected only around the mid-2030s. In this context, Russia has repeatedly pitched the Su-57 as a stopgap solution.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has personally renewed the offer during his recent visit to New Delhi for the BRICS Summit. Moscow has promised extensive technology transfer, licensed production in India, and even access to source codes.

The Kremlin has positioned the Su-57 as a highly manoeuvrable aircraft with 3D thrust-vectoring, supercruise capability, and advanced stealth features. However, despite these promises, the Indian Air Force has emphasised that operational induction would take at least two years after any procurement decision.

Russia has offered India two squadrons of Su-57 fighters—around 36 to 40 aircraft—by 2030–31, with initial deliveries possible by 2027 or 2028 if a deal is signed soon. Current production models are powered by transitional AL-41F1 engines, while the advanced Izdeliye 177 engine is still undergoing testing. Moscow has assured India of a post-2030 upgrade pathway to retrofit delivered aircraft with the new engines once they are fully operational.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has conducted feasibility studies at its Nashik and Koraput facilities, confirming that 50–60 per cent of infrastructure is already in place for licensed Su-57 production. 

Russia has indicated willingness to provide complete transfer of technology, a concession not offered by France in its Rafale co-production proposal. HAL has assessed that Su-57 production could begin within two to three years of government approval, though this timeline does not account for the operational readiness gap.

The Su-57 deal is being positioned as an interim measure to narrow the capability gap with China and provide superiority over Pakistan’s J-10C fighters. Yet, defence analysts caution that importing a handful of Su-57s now would not yield immediate operational benefits. Training, maintenance adaptation, and integration of Indian-origin systems would require significant time, meaning the aircraft would not be combat-ready before two years.

India’s defence procurement strategy is also complicated by diversification. While Russia remains India’s largest arms supplier, accounting for 40 per cent of imports, New Delhi has increased acquisitions from France and Israel to ensure supply chain resilience.

The Rafale deal, valued at ₹3.25 lakh crore, includes 90 aircraft to be produced in India under the Make in India initiative, contrasting with Russia’s Su-57 offer of full technology transfer.

Ultimately, the Su-57 remains an attractive but delayed option. Even if India signs a deal now, the aircraft will not be operational before two years, making it a long-term rather than immediate solution to the Air Force’s fifth-generation fighter requirements.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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West Bengal Clears Path For DRDO Junput Test Facility To Ease Chandipur Congestion

The West Bengal government has confirmed that clearances have been advanced for the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s new testing facility in Junput, Times of India reported.

The project is located in Junput village in the Purba Medinipur district, close to the coastal town of Digha. It lies about 177 kilometres from Kolkata and approximately 70 kilometres from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. The site spans 8.73 acres along the Bay of Bengal, giving it strategic access to coastal testing corridors.

The facility is intended to ease congestion at the Chandipur range, which has long been burdened with heavy testing workloads and operational traffic. By establishing this new centre, DRDO will be able to conduct trials for short‑range missiles, radar equipment, and a variety of weapon systems without overloading existing infrastructure.

This diversification of testing locations is expected to streamline operations and improve efficiency in India’s defence research programs.

Officials have clarified that earlier administrative delays had stalled progress, but these issues have now been resolved. State authorities have responded to pending clearances, ensuring that the project is firmly back on track. The move reflects a coordinated effort between the state government and DRDO to accelerate defence infrastructure development in the region.

The Junput facility’s proximity to Chandipur is significant, as it allows for complementary operations between the two ranges. Chandipur will continue to handle long‑range and strategic missile trials, while Junput will absorb short‑range and radar‑related testing.

This division of responsibilities is expected to reduce bottlenecks and enhance India’s overall testing capacity.

The location along the Bay of Bengal also provides a natural buffer zone for trials, minimising risks to populated areas. The coastal setting is advantageous for missile trajectory monitoring and radar calibration, making Junput an ideal site for such activities.

The project is part of a broader push to expand defence infrastructure in West Bengal, which has been highlighted by state officials as a key driver of investment and industrial growth.

The establishment of the Junput range underscores India’s commitment to strengthening indigenous defence capabilities. By reducing reliance on a single testing facility, DRDO is ensuring greater resilience and flexibility in its operations.

The project also signals the government’s intent to integrate regional development with national security priorities, positioning West Bengal as a contributor to India’s defence modernisation program.

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US And India Team Up To Protect Global Cable Networks Under TRUST Initiative

The United States and India have announced a significant partnership to secure and expand global undersea cable networks, underscoring New Delhi’s growing role as a digital hub.

The collaboration was revealed by the US Embassy in India, which confirmed that both governments and industry experts convened in September for an “Undersea Cables Workshop” to safeguard critical subsea communication infrastructure.

The Embassy stressed that undersea cables form the backbone of global digital connectivity, powering economies, cloud services, and the artificial intelligence revolution. It noted that the partnership aims to strengthen the security, resilience, and diversification of these networks, which are essential to keeping the world connected.

Under the US-India TRUST (Transforming the Relationship Utilising Strategic Technologies) Initiative, subsea cable networks are recognised as the structural foundation for digital commerce, data centres, cloud platforms, and the rapidly expanding AI economy. The Embassy highlighted that secure and resilient cables are vital to maintaining interconnected international economies.

India’s role was emphasised as pivotal, with its booming digital economy, rising demand for cloud and AI capabilities, and strategic geographical location linking major global markets. These factors position New Delhi to establish itself as a primary global subsea cable hub.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor earlier explained that the TRUST initiative, launched during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington last year, is deepening cooperation in critical and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing, biotechnology, energy, and space. He stated that the US is focusing on partnerships with trusted collaborators, and India is considered one of those partners.

Gor also highlighted India’s inclusion in the Pax Silica initiative, a trusted technology and supply-chain network led by the United States. He remarked that India was among the first ten countries to join, reflecting Washington’s confidence in India’s people, technology, and government. He added that India is now part of a network of trusted ecosystems and resilient supply chains covering AI, semiconductors, and quantum computing.

The TRUST initiative was designed to catalyse collaboration across government, academia, and the private sector, promoting applications of critical technologies in defence, AI, semiconductors, quantum, biotechnology, energy, and space. It also encourages the use of verified technology vendors and ensures sensitive technologies are protected.

As a central pillar of the initiative, both nations committed to working with private industry to produce a US-India Roadmap on Accelerating AI Infrastructure by the end of the year. This roadmap will identify constraints to financing, building, powering, and connecting large-scale US-origin AI infrastructure in India, with milestones and future actions outlined.

The joint statement further noted that the US and India will cooperate to enable industry partnerships and investments in next-generation data centres. They will also collaborate on access to compute and processors for AI, innovations in AI models, and building applications to solve societal challenges. At the same time, protections and controls will be implemented to safeguard these technologies and reduce regulatory barriers.

This partnership reflects a broader strategic alignment between Washington and New Delhi, positioning India as a trusted global player in digital infrastructure and advanced technologies.

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India Deepens Quad Military Ties As Xi Arrives For BRICS Summit

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s arrival in New Delhi for the BRICS summit marks his first visit to India in seven years.

The timing is significant as the Indian military is simultaneously engaged with all three other Quad partners, underscoring New Delhi’s balancing act between dialogue with Beijing and deepening defence cooperation with the United States, Japan and Australia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi began bilateral meetings with visiting BRICS leaders on Friday, including Russian President Vladimir Putin.

A meeting between Modi and Xi is being arranged on the margins of the summit, where the two leaders are expected to review progress in bilateral ties following the disengagement of troops from several friction points along the Line of Actual Control.

China has repeatedly criticised the Quad, describing it as an “anti‑China front line” and “mini NATO”, accusing it of bloc confrontation. The four members, however, maintain that the Quad is not a military alliance, but the timing of India’s engagements with its partners highlights the strategic convergence taking place.

The 22nd edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas with the US Army began on Wednesday and will continue until the end of the month. For the first time, the exercise is being conducted across two theatres, with contingents training at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges near Bikaner before moving to Auli in Uttarakhand, roughly 95 kilometres from the LAC.

The drill has expanded well beyond its original peacekeeping orientation to include long‑range fires, high‑altitude operations, air mobility, logistics and counter‑unmanned aerial systems.

In parallel, the Indian Air Force and Japan Air Self‑Defence Force began Exercise Veer Guardian‑26 at Jodhpur. The two‑week exercise features Japanese F‑2A fighters alongside IAF Tejas, Su‑30MKI and Rafale aircraft.

Both sides are undertaking advanced operational missions and professional exchanges. Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh and his Japanese counterpart General Takehiro Morita are expected at the base during the drill and are likely to fly sorties.

Meanwhile, Navy chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan began his visit to Australia on Wednesday, focusing on operational interaction, interoperability, information‑sharing, training and professional exchanges with the Royal Australian Navy and Australian defence leadership.

He will subsequently engage New Zealand’s defence leadership. India and Australia already have a Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement and conduct AUSINDEX, while Australia has participated in Malabar with India, the US and Japan since 2020.

The maritime engagement assumes greater importance as the People’s Liberation Army Navy expands operations beyond China’s near seas. Chinese warships, submarines and survey vessels have become a persistent presence in the Indian Ocean, while Beijing’s military base at Djibouti provides a foothold for sustained operations in the western Indian Ocean.

India has responded by building a wider maritime picture through mission‑based deployments and information‑sharing with partner countries. The Information Fusion Centre‑Indian Ocean Region at Gurugram hosts liaison officers from several partner navies and is intended to improve maritime‑domain awareness and the exchange of operational information.

The convergence of these military engagements with Xi’s visit underscores the complexity of India’s strategic environment. On one hand, New Delhi is hosting the Chinese leader for dialogue at the BRICS summit. On the other, it is reinforcing defence ties with the US, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, signalling its intent to maintain balance and readiness in a contested Indo‑Pacific.

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President Putin Slams 'So-Called G-7', Hails BRICS As Engines of Global Growth

Russian President Vladimir Putin strongly emphasised the growing economic weight of BRICS nations while taking sharp digs at the G-7 grouping during his address at the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi.

He highlighted that BRICS countries now account for more than half of the world’s population and possess dynamic and vibrant domestic markets that are driving global growth.

Putin pointed out that in the last five years, BRICS nations have produced more than 40 per cent of the world’s GDP, while the so-called G-7 has contributed only 29 per cent.

He further noted that over half of global economic growth during this period has come from BRICS, compared to just 18 per cent from the G-7. He questioned why the G-7 continues to be labelled the “Great 7” despite its declining share in global growth.

He also criticised the sanctions regime imposed on Russia, particularly by the United States, in connection with the war in Ukraine. Putin revealed that Russia has been subjected to more than 30,000 sanctions, which is double the total number of sanctions imposed on all other countries combined. He described these measures as unfair and politically motivated, targeting Russia’s sovereignty and economic independence.

Putin condemned what he termed “ugly forms of competition” at the State level, including the destruction of pipelines, attempts to block international transport corridors, seizure of maritime vessels, and the imposition of illegal restrictions. He warned against secondary sanctions aimed at countries such as India that continue to import Russian oil, stressing that such measures undermine global trade and cooperation.

Despite these challenges, Putin asserted that Russia has achieved significant success in reinforcing its national sovereignty and building ties with reliable and predictable partners.

He claimed that Russia’s economic growth over the past three years has outpaced the world average, demonstrating resilience in the face of external pressure.

He also reflected on the broader structural shifts in the global economy, noting that the “old leaders” of growth from the second half of the 20th century are being replaced by new engines of growth.

While acknowledging that these older economies still retain strong infrastructure, technological advantages, and scientific expertise, he insisted that the nature of the global economy is constant change, and BRICS nations are now at the forefront of this transformation.

Putin’s remarks came after his bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ahead of the formal opening of the 18th BRICS Summit. His speech underscored Russia’s determination to resist Western pressure and align more closely with emerging economies, particularly within the BRICS framework.

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'30,000 Sanctions—And Still Standing': Putin Lashes Out At West’s 'Ugly' Trade War

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that Russia is currently facing more than 30,000 sanctions, a figure he stressed is more than double the total restrictions imposed on all other countries combined.

He made these remarks while addressing the Leaders’ Session of the BRICS Business Forum in New Delhi, where he strongly criticised what he described as “ugly” competitive tactics and coercive trade practices by Western nations.

Putin accused certain governments of escalating trade disputes into geopolitical disruptions, pointing to the destruction of pipelines, blockades of transport corridors, illegal restrictions, and threats of secondary sanctions against countries that refuse to align with external interests.

He emphasised that competition has taken on distorted forms, with measures even extending to physical sabotage of infrastructure and maritime seizures.

Despite the unprecedented wave of punitive measures, Putin asserted that Russia has successfully adapted by reinforcing its sovereignty and expanding trade with reliable partners. He highlighted that Russia’s economic growth over the past three years has outpaced the global average, underscoring resilience in the face of sanctions.

His remarks come against the backdrop of the United States Senate passing the bipartisan Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which authorises tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods from countries such as India and China that continue significant imports of Russian oil and gas. 

This legislation also proposes additional sanctions targeting Putin himself, senior Russian officials, financial institutions, energy projects, and entities linked to Moscow’s war effort.

India, one of the largest buyers of Russian crude alongside China, faces potential challenges from these proposed secondary tariffs. The Ministry of External Affairs has reiterated that India’s energy policy is firmly based on securing reliable, affordable, and uninterrupted energy supplies for its 1.4 billion citizens. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified that India’s strategy is rooted in diversification, sourcing energy from multiple partners including the United States.

Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov reinforced Moscow’s commitment to meeting India’s energy needs. He criticised Western sanctions as punitive pressure tactics, arguing that they undermine constructive engagement. He emphasised that Russia is ready to supply as much oil as India requires, noting that Western nations cannot offer India a better deal than Russia.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with President Putin in New Delhi ahead of the formal opening of the 18th BRICS Summit.

The two leaders discussed strengthening trade ties, implementing the Program for Economic Cooperation 2030, and expanding collaboration in infrastructure, energy, technology, defence, and culture. This was their second meeting in less than two weeks, following discussions at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in Bishkek on 31 August.

President Putin’s remarks at the BRICS Business Forum highlight Russia’s defiance against mounting global sanctions and its determination to deepen partnerships with countries like India, even as Western powers threaten secondary penalties that could reshape global energy trade.

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Indian Navy Chief Strengthens Maritime Ties With Australian Defence Leadership In Canberra

Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan met Australia’s Naval Chief Vice Admiral Matthew Buckley and Chief of Defence Forces Admiral Mark Hammond in Canberra, where discussions centred on strengthening maritime cooperation, advancing the Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap, and expanding joint exercises planned for 2027.

The engagements underscored India and Australia’s shared commitment to a secure and stable Indo-Pacific.

Admiral Krishna Swaminathan is currently on a three-day official visit to Australia, aimed at consolidating defence and maritime ties between the two nations. His meetings in Canberra with Vice Admiral Matthew Buckley and Admiral Mark Hammond were held at the Russell Offices, the administrative headquarters of the Australian Defence Force.

The Indian Navy Chief was accorded a ceremonial welcome that included a Smoking Ceremony reflecting Australia’s indigenous heritage, followed by a Guard of Honour. This traditional reception marked the commencement of his official engagements in Canberra.

During his meeting with Vice Admiral Buckley, the two chiefs reviewed the progress of bilateral naval cooperation. They discussed avenues to further enhance interoperability and operational engagement, including multiple exercise opportunities scheduled for 2027.

The talks also focused on evolving maritime capabilities and future inductions within the Royal Australian Navy, with an emphasis on strengthening operational interaction between the two navies.

Admiral Swaminathan, accompanied by Vice Admiral Buckley, also paid homage at the Australian War Memorial, honouring the memory and sacrifice of those who served. This gesture highlighted the shared respect for military heritage and the importance of defence cooperation in shaping strategic partnerships.

Later in the day, Admiral Swaminathan held discussions with Admiral Mark Hammond, Chief of the Defence Force. These talks centred on advancing the implementation of the Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap, identifying opportunities to deepen interoperability, and expanding cooperation across the maritime domain. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to translating strategic convergence into tangible outcomes that contribute to a secure, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Earlier in his visit, Admiral Swaminathan interacted with Rear Admiral Anita Williams, Commander of the Australian Fleet, at HMAS Kuttabul in Sydney. Discussions there covered the Royal Australian Navy’s evolving fleet infrastructure, operational capabilities, and future inductions, alongside opportunities for enhancing interoperability and operational interaction between the two navies.

The Indian Navy Chief also addressed course members of the Australian Command and Staff Course at the Australian Defence College in Canberra. He shared perspectives on the evolving maritime and strategic landscape, contemporary security challenges, and the demands these place on military leaders. 

He emphasised adaptability, professional curiosity, and critical thinking as essential qualities for modern defence leadership. He also interacted with Indian Defence Forces officers undergoing courses at the College, reinforcing India’s commitment to professional military education and exchange.

The visit builds upon the momentum of recent high-level engagements, including the Third India-Australia Annual Summit in July 2026 and the Second India-Australia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in June 2026. These dialogues have steadily expanded defence and security cooperation, particularly in maritime security and regional engagement.

Admiral Swaminathan’s engagements in Canberra and Sydney underscore India’s growing defence and maritime partnership with Australia. The meetings reflect a shared vision of strengthening operational interaction, interoperability, and strategic cooperation, contributing to peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

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Pakistan Walks Tightrope As Houthis Test Mecca Defence Pact

Pakistan is facing growing pressure as fighting between Saudi-backed forces and Iran-aligned Houthis intensifies in Yemen. Smoke was seen rising in Al Jawf province after recent strikes, underscoring the scale of the conflict.

For the past year, Islamabad has acted both as Riyadh’s defence partner and Washington’s backchannel to Tehran. This dual role is now being tested by the first major challenge to the mutual defence alliance signed last month between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. The pact stipulates that an armed attack on one member is to be treated as an attack on all.

Pakistani officials fear the Houthi threat could drag them into war more readily than earlier Iranian missile strikes on Saudi energy infrastructure.

Thousands of Pakistani soldiers are already deployed near the Saudi-Yemeni border, increasing their exposure. Defence deals with Gulf nations have been central to Pakistan’s economic recovery strategy, often tied to promises of Gulf investment.

At the same time, Pakistan depends heavily on oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. Both routes have been disrupted by Iran and the Houthis, giving Islamabad strong incentive to avoid alienating Tehran even as it deepens ties with Riyadh.

This week, Pakistan delivered a Saudi warning to Iran urging restraint over Houthi operations. Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi to discuss ways of restoring diplomatic efforts.

Officials insist no military response is currently under discussion. Foreign ministry spokesman Sajjad Haider Khan reiterated Pakistan’s opposition to escalation, stressing dialogue and diplomacy.

Iranian officials have publicly praised Pakistan’s mediation role, but sources suggest Tehran privately doubts Islamabad’s capacity compared to experienced negotiators like Qatar. Analysts note Pakistan’s elevated role owes more to personal ties between President Donald Trump and Field Marshal Munir than to Islamabad’s diplomatic capital. Trump has repeatedly referred to Munir as his “favourite field marshal,” following Pakistan’s charm offensive involving crypto deals, rare minerals access, and counterterrorism cooperation.

Pakistan’s balancing act is evident in its recent defence dealings. While Kuwait sought a pact similar to the Saudi-Turkish arrangement, Islamabad scaled back talks, wary of deepening military ties with another Gulf state vulnerable to Iranian strikes.

Instead, a narrower protocol covering training, border security and capacity-building was signed last month. Officials confirmed there are no plans to expand the broader alliance to new members.

Experts remain divided on Islamabad’s role. Farzana Shaikh of Chatham House questioned whether Tehran’s trust was ever solid, noting Pakistan lacks the experience of Qatar or Oman. Kamran Bokhari argued that Pakistan’s alignment with Riyadh and Washington is precisely why Tehran engages it, since Islamabad can deliver messages in ways neutral mediators cannot.

Yet escalation could shift Pakistan from mediator to combatant. Bokhari warned that while relaying messages is one thing, providing active air defence or intelligence support would tip Pakistan into direct involvement.

With the seventh-largest military in the world, Pakistan has already deployed thousands of troops and a fighter squadron to Saudi Arabia. But with forces stretched along the Indian border and fighting insurgencies in western provinces, Islamabad is cautious about further commitments.

The situation highlights Pakistan’s dilemma: balancing its defence ties with Gulf allies against its need to maintain workable relations with Iran. As the Saudi-Houthi conflict deepens, Islamabad’s ability to remain both mediator and partner is under increasing strain.

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Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi Praises India’s Leadership of BRICS

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi praised India’s chairship of BRICS, expressing confidence in New Delhi’s ability to guide the expanding bloc of emerging economies ahead of the summit.

He spoke with the media on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in the national capital, highlighting India’s growing geopolitical influence and its pivotal role as the current chair of the group.

He described India as a great emerging country presiding over BRICS and emphasised that the institution is playing a very important role. He added that he was sure India would be able to lead the BRICS group and its member countries in an excellent way.

Addressing the ongoing economic discussions within the bloc, particularly regarding financial integration and de-dollarisation, Araghchi acknowledged differing perspectives among member states but pointed to a shared commitment to local currency trade.

He explained that inside BRICS there are different opinions, but all members believe that national currencies should be strengthened and trade between member states should be conducted through national currencies. He noted that a more unified financial apparatus remains a long-term topic, adding that having a single currency is still under consideration.

Araghchi made these remarks as he arrived in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS summit along with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Finance Minister Seyed Ali Madanizadeh.

Earlier in the day, President Pezeshkian asserted that Tehran would not yield in the face of bullying and arrogance, accusing the United States of actively attempting to sow division and destabilise Iranian society through sanctions.

Addressing a gathering of Indian religious leaders, scholars, and businesspeople in New Delhi, the Iranian head of state underscored Tehran’s commitment to self-reliance and peaceful coexistence despite external pressures.

He declared that Iran would not surrender to oppression and would exchange experiences to build a society in which all human beings live freely and without oppression and exploitation.

He stressed that this was what Iran was pursuing, and that the United States did not want such independence, as it sought to prevent Iran from providing services to its people.

The Iranian leader pointed out that foreign interference and coercive economic tactics have persistently targeted the country since the 1979 revolution. He explained that since the revolution was victorious, external forces had tried to bring about division, sanctions and discord in Iranian society to ensure their own intentions prevailed.

Emphasising human dignity, equality, and global justice over conflict, he added that all people are equal and brothers, with equal rights, and that they can peacefully coexist with justice. He insisted that Iran would not surrender to oppression and would not yield in the face of bullying and arrogance, since it was seeking truth and justice.

Previously, President Pezeshkian met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders discussed various aspects of the bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Modi thanked Iran for its regular, high-level participation in BRICS-related meetings despite challenging circumstances.

He noted the potential for BRICS in building resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability among countries in the Global South.

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Indian Flying Instructors Join UK's Royal Air Force Valley In Historic Defence Milestone

Three Indian Air Force Qualified Flying Instructors have formally joined the Royal Air Force Valley in Wales to train British fast‑jet pilots, marking a historic milestone in bilateral defence cooperation between India and the United Kingdom.

The Indian Air Force announced the achievement on X, describing it as a historic first in India–UK defence ties. The deployment of the QFIs was hailed as a landmark step in strengthening shared commitments to professional excellence, interoperability and enduring bilateral relations.

This development follows a series of high‑level engagements earlier in the year. In April, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh held talks with Jonathan Nicholas Powell, the UK’s National Security Advisor, where both sides reviewed progress in defence cooperation frameworks and discussed regional security developments.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also met Powell to deliberate on regional and global security issues. In parallel, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval engaged Powell in discussions during the annual India–UK Strategic Dialogue, reinforcing the depth of bilateral engagement.

Last October, then UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The joint statement issued after their meeting outlined commitments to expand exchanges between the armed forces of both nations through joint exercises, training and capacity building.

Prime Minister Modi welcomed the port call of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group and the Royal Navy’s participation in Exercise KONKAN with the Indian Navy.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to robust maritime security collaboration in the Indo‑Pacific, including the establishment of the Regional Maritime Security Centre of Excellence under the Indo‑Pacific Oceans Initiative.

In the context of training cooperation, the two leaders welcomed progress on arrangements that would integrate Indian Air Force Qualified Flying Instructors into Royal Air Force training programs. This agreement was seen as a significant step in advancing the strong training and education relationship between the two countries.

The deployment of Indian QFIs to RAF Valley is therefore not only a symbolic achievement but also a practical demonstration of the growing defence partnership. It reflects a shared vision of enhancing operational capabilities, fostering mutual trust and building long‑term interoperability between the two air forces.

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Iranian President Pezeshkian Lands In Delhi For BRICS Summit, To Hold Talks With PM Modi

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian arrived in New Delhi on Friday to participate in the 18th BRICS Summit 2026. His schedule also includes a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day.

Before departing Tehran, President Pezeshkian emphasised that the BRICS grouping seeks to confront unilateralism. He noted that the summit’s slogan reflects this framework and expressed hope that member nations would move closer to achieving this goal.

He acknowledged the complexity of economic issues and stressed the need for new approaches to reduce totalitarianism and unilateralism globally.

According to ISNA, the Iranian leader highlighted the importance of the summit, pointing to its guiding principles of independence, solidarity, sustainability, resistance, and innovation. He confirmed that economic, financial, industrial, and trade matters would be central to the discussions.

He further stated that a special bank has been established within the BRICS framework. This institution is expected to facilitate investment among member countries and enable transactions without reliance on the dollar. He argued that such mechanisms would help reduce America’s dominance through dollar dependency.

President Pezeshkian had previously met Prime Minister Modi on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek. He will continue his engagements with a bilateral meeting in Delhi, underlining that Iran and India share a long-standing relationship with significant potential to expand commonalities.

He remarked that the summit provides an opportunity to meet and consult with officials from China, Russia, Brazil, India, and other participating nations.

During their earlier meeting in Bishkek, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s support for efforts aimed at achieving long-term peace and stability in the region. Modi also reaffirmed India’s readiness to cooperate closely with Iran in multilateral organisations such as BRICS and SCO. He stressed New Delhi’s resolve to expand and diversify bilateral trade channels with Iran, underscoring India’s commitment to strengthening historic ties across multiple domains.

India is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on 12–13 September. The Chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability”, with development, sustainability, and innovation forming the core focus areas.

BRICS has become a vital platform for coordination among major emerging economies and for advancing the interests of the Global South in multilateral institutions. Its agenda spans development, finance, technology, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.

The grouping now includes 11 countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the UAE. Collectively, BRICS members represent around 49.5 per cent of the global population, 40 per cent of global GDP, and 26 per cent of global trade, according to background information on India’s 2026 Chairship.

India’s leadership of BRICS comes at a time of global economic fragmentation, technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, climate change, and resource pressures. The expanded grouping offers a platform for cooperation on development, climate action, technology, energy, and financial resilience. It also contributes to discussions on reforming global institutions.

For India, the 2026 Chairship is focused on translating the expanded representation of BRICS into meaningful cooperation and tangible outcomes. New Delhi aims to build consensus among diverse members while strengthening the effectiveness of existing mechanisms.

ANI

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Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Holds Late-Night Talks With Putin On Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin late on Friday night on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi.

The meeting began around 11 p.m. and was described as friendly, providing an opportunity to assess the progress of Malaysia-Russia relations and to establish concrete steps to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

Anwar Ibrahim emphasised the need to accelerate efforts to realise direct flights between Malaysia and Russia, alongside visa-free travel facilities as previously agreed. He noted that such measures would boost tourism, trade, and investment between the two nations.

He also proposed the establishment of a special mechanism to coordinate and accelerate the implementation of all agreements, a proposal that was agreed to by President Putin.

The Malaysian leader expressed appreciation for Russia’s support in joint energy cooperation with Malaysia. He highlighted that both countries possess strengths and expertise that can be combined to expand collaboration in this strategic sector for mutual benefit.

Discussions also touched on increasing Malaysian palm oil exports to the Russian market and exploring efforts to double the value of bilateral trade. Anwar Ibrahim stressed that every agreement reached must be promptly translated into implementation, reinforcing the importance of the proposed mechanism.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Anwar Ibrahim reiterated the invitation from Malaysia’s King, Yang di-Pertuan Agong, for President Putin to undertake a State Visit to Malaysia. He expressed confidence that such a visit would open a new chapter in the increasingly close, mature, and mutually beneficial Malaysia-Russia relationship.

Anwar Ibrahim arrived in New Delhi late on Friday and was welcomed by India’s Ministry of External Affairs.

The ministry highlighted India’s longstanding ties with Malaysia, marked by growing cooperation across trade, investment, digital economy, defence, and security. It noted that Ibrahim’s visit builds on the momentum of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s earlier visit to Malaysia this year.

BRICS has emerged as a key platform for coordinating economic policy among major emerging economies. It serves as the principal forum where these nations shape common positions on global governance.

Through sustained dialogue, BRICS has become a channel for advancing the interests of the Global South within multilateral institutions. Its agenda spans development, finance, technology, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.

The grouping reflects the growing economic weight and aspirations of emerging economies globally, providing members with a platform to share experiences and address common challenges.

ANI

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BRICS 2026: India Has Chance To Reassert Global Leadership, Says Analyst Michael Kugelman

South Asia analyst Michael Kugelman has emphasised that the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi provides India with a pivotal platform to reassert its global leadership and deepen its engagement with the Global South.

He noted that the timing of the summit is crucial, as developing nations are increasingly seeking alternatives to the existing global framework amid growing volatility in the international order.

Kugelman explained that the summit comes at a moment of intensifying instability in the global economic and financial system, as well as in the broader international order.

He said BRICS is designed to provide new contributions to the global order at a time when dissatisfaction is rising, particularly within the Global South.

He described the timing of this year’s summit as fortuitous, stressing that it allows India to redouble its efforts to connect with the Global South. He underlined that these priorities are central to Indian foreign policy, making the summit a significant opportunity for New Delhi.

However, Kugelman cautioned that India faces considerable diplomatic hurdles in forging unity within the expanded and increasingly complex grouping.

He said the ability to produce a substantive joint statement would be a key measure of success, as consensus is essential for BRICS to function effectively. He warned that the expansion of membership increases the risk of ineffectiveness due to the difficulty of reaching agreement among diverse nations.

He identified two specific challenges for India’s diplomatic balancing act. The first is navigating tensions in West Asia, given the presence of both Iran and the UAE at the summit.

The second is managing the ideological divide between BRICS members and the United States, particularly as India is engaged in delicate negotiations with Washington over a bilateral trade agreement.

He noted that Russia, Iran, and possibly China may push for language critical of the US, while India and others will resist such moves to safeguard their ties with Washington.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s economic resilience during the Leaders’ Session of the BRICS Business Forum.

He said India has diversified supply chains across sectors, ensuring reliability and stability even amidst global uncertainties.

He emphasised that India offers assurance of growth and stability, supported by rapid expansion of infrastructure including roads, railways, ports, and airports.

PM Modi also stressed that BRICS nations are emerging as centres of global innovation and solutions. He said global trade can only progress when sea lanes are secure, supply routes remain open, and seafarers are safe.

He reiterated that the theme of India’s BRICS chairmanship is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability,” which has guided India’s economic and trade policies for over a decade.

He pointed out that BRICS has expanded significantly since its launch in 2006, with its membership and partners now comprising 21 countries. This expansion reflects the growing importance of the grouping in global affairs and underscores India’s role as chair in shaping its future trajectory.

ANI

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