India Strengthens BRICS Security Cooperation: Ajit Doval Chairs Crucial NSA Meeting in New Delhi

In a significant diplomatic engagement, India is hosting the BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting on June 22-23, chaired by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. This high-level gathering underscores India’s active leadership within the expanded BRICS framework during its 2026 chairship and highlights the bloc’s commitment to addressing contemporary global security concerns through collective dialogue.

The BRICS National Security Advisers’ (NSA) meeting will be hosted by India during June 22-23. (ANI) | Hindustan Times

Focus on Non-Traditional Security Challenges

The two-day meeting brings together National Security Advisers and heads of delegations from BRICS member nations to exchange views on the theme “Non-traditional security challenges confronting the world today.” Discussions centre on the rapidly evolving nature of national security threats and the critical role of new and emerging technologies in shaping these challenges.

Participants are reviewing the outcomes of recent BRICS joint working groups on counter-terrorism and the security dimensions of information and communication technologies. This collaborative approach aims to enhance coordination among member states in tackling issues such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence-related risks, and other transnational threats that transcend traditional borders.

Key Participants and Bilateral Engagements

The meeting features prominent figures, including Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who serves as China’s senior national security official. Delegates from all BRICS countries — including Brazil, Russia, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates — are participating actively.

On the sidelines, Ajit Doval held important bilateral discussions, such as his meeting with Iran’s Deputy Secretary for Defense Affairs, Ghadir Nezamipour, where they explored bilateral relations and the broader situation in West Asia. These interactions reflect the value of the platform in fostering direct communication among key global players.

Preparations for the Upcoming BRICS Summit

This NSA meeting serves as an essential stepping stone toward the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for September 12-13, 2026, in New Delhi. Under India’s chairship theme — “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability” — the summit is expected to advance practical cooperation across multiple domains, with participation from top leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

India’s presidency emphasises a people-centric and humanity-first approach, aligning with the bloc’s growing economic significance. The expanded BRICS grouping now accounts for a substantial portion of global GDP on a purchasing power parity basis, positioning it as a vital forum for emerging economies.

The MGMM Outlook 

India’s hosting of the BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting under the chairmanship of NSA Ajit Doval highlights the country’s growing leadership role within the expanded BRICS framework. By bringing together member nations to address non-traditional security challenges, including cybersecurity, emerging technologies, and counter-terrorism, the meeting reflects the importance of collaborative approaches in tackling increasingly complex global threats. The discussions also demonstrate how BRICS is evolving beyond economic cooperation to become a platform for strategic dialogue on issues affecting international stability.

The participation of key representatives from BRICS nations and the bilateral engagements held on the sidelines underline the diplomatic significance of the gathering. As preparations advance for the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi, India’s emphasis on resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability reinforces the bloc’s commitment to a people-centric and multipolar global order. The meeting showcases the potential of BRICS to strengthen coordination among emerging economies and contribute to long-term peace, security, and sustainable development.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, Indian Express, News on Air)