Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a light-hearted “fan moment” during the BRICS Summit in New Delhi when delegates approached him and asked for a candid photograph. The informal interaction took place on the sidelines of the summit, where leaders and representatives from BRICS member countries gathered for discussions on global cooperation and key international issues. Modi responded warmly to the request, smiling as the delegates posed for the photograph. The moment highlighted the informal and personal interactions taking place alongside the summit’s formal diplomatic engagements, attracting attention online and showcasing the Indian Prime Minister’s popularity among visiting delegates.

Delhi is managing an unusually large aviation operation as around 35 special aircraft carrying BRICS leaders and delegations arrive for the summit. Authorities are coordinating flights across Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, Palam, Noida International Airport, Hindon, Safdarjung and other facilities. Special airspace restrictions have been imposed, including curbs on non-scheduled flights within a 300-km radius of Delhi from September 11 to 13. Regular commercial flights remain operational, with their schedules adjusted when necessary to avoid conflicts with VVIP movements. Security agencies are also conducting additional aircraft and ground-handling checks to ensure safe and smooth movement of international dignitaries. (PC: AFP)

Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit, bringing together leaders and senior representatives from major emerging economies. The venue, located at Pragati Maidan, has been transformed for the high-profile diplomatic gathering, with elaborate arrangements for meetings, discussions and cultural showcases. The NDTV virtual tour highlights the sprawling complex, its modern architecture, grand interiors and facilities designed for international events. The summit venue reflects India’s growing role in global diplomacy and its efforts to present New Delhi as a capable host for major multilateral gatherings. The BRICS meetings focus on cooperation, economic growth, global governance and international challenges. 

India held separate high-level discussions with Ethiopia and Malaysia on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Following meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, both countries indicated interest in expanding cooperation with India, particularly in defence and business. The discussions reflect India’s broader effort to deepen strategic and economic partnerships with countries participating in the BRICS framework. Ethiopia is looking to strengthen defence cooperation, while Malaysia sees opportunities for greater business and economic engagement. The meetings also underline India’s push to expand trade, investment and strategic partnerships amid changing global geopolitical and economic conditions. (PC: Reuters)

Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Summit, accompanied by Cai Qi, a senior member of the Communist Party of China’s Politburo Standing Committee and director of the party’s General Office. Cai is regarded as one of Xi’s closest political aides. His presence highlights the importance Beijing attaches to the India visit. Xi is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with bilateral ties, border issues, trade and cooperation expected to feature in discussions. The visit comes as India and China seek to stabilise relations following the 2020 Ladakh border tensions. (PC: India Today)

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in New Delhi on September 12 to attend the 18th BRICS Summit, marking his first visit to India in seven years. Xi is leading a senior Chinese delegation that includes Cai Qi and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. His visit comes as India and China work to stabilize ties following years of border tensions and diplomatic strain. Xi is expected to participate in BRICS discussions on global governance, trade, economic cooperation and international conflicts. He is also scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with border issues, trade and broader bilateral relations expected to feature prominently.

Saudi Arabia has temporarily shut its 1,200-km East-West oil pipeline after a drone attack, which Riyadh and Baghdad said originated from Iraq. The pipeline, capable of carrying 4–5 million barrels of oil per day, allows Saudi Arabia to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. The closure comes as Iran-aligned Houthi forces expand their presence near Yemen’s strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, including reported control of Perim Island. The disruptions have intensified concerns over global oil supplies and pushed crude prices above $100 a barrel. Saudi Arabia has sought U.S. military assistance, while Washington is currently offering intelligence and targeting support. (PC: Reuters)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in New Delhi on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit. Malaysia is participating as a BRICS partner country, while India is hosting the summit under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” The talks focused on strengthening India-Malaysia relations and expanding cooperation in areas including trade, investment, digital technology and education. The meeting also comes as both countries seek greater engagement with the Global South. Malaysia has identified India as its largest trading partner in South Asia, with bilateral trade reaching about $18.55 billion in 2025. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at Hyderabad House in New Delhi on September 12, on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit. The meeting is part of India’s extensive diplomatic engagements during the summit, as New Delhi seeks to deepen partnerships with BRICS members and partner countries. India and Ethiopia are expected to discuss bilateral cooperation, trade, investment and broader issues concerning the Global South. Ethiopia’s participation also highlights the growing importance of Africa within the expanded BRICS framework. The talks come amid India’s efforts to strengthen economic and strategic ties with African nations. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held talks in New Delhi amid the escalating Iran war and wider West Asian tensions. Their discussions focused on regional stability, maritime security, the safety of seafarers and ensuring safe passage for vessels amid concerns over the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway is crucial for global energy supplies and India’s imports. The two sides also discussed the importance of Chabahar Port, a key Indian investment connecting India with Iran and Central Asia. Pezeshkian has sought greater international efforts for peace, while India continues to emphasize dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts. (PC: X)