New Delhi [India], September 11 – India will place climate action at the centre of the BRICS agenda when it hosts the grouping’s 18th summit on September 12-13 with discussions expected to focus on energy transition, climate resilience, critical minerals and climate finance.
As BRICS chair, India has identified sustainability as a key priority seeking to reflect the needs of developing economies facing rising climate risks while pursuing economic growth.
The expanded grouping comprising 11 members and 10 partner countries is expected to explore how its growing economic weight can strengthen the Global South’s voice on climate change.
Energy transition will be a major focus with BRICS recognising that members have different energy mixes and development priorities. At a June meeting energy ministers endorsed cooperation on renewable energy, hydrogen, biofuels, carbon capture, smart grids, storage and energy efficiency.
Critical minerals are also gaining prominence as demand rises for resources needed for electric vehicles, batteries and renewable-energy systems. BRICS has called for secure, diversified and fair supply chains while supporting value addition in resource-rich developing countries.
Climate adaptation is another priority. BRICS environment ministers in August highlighted disaster preparedness, early warning systems, climate finance and community resilience.
Finance remains central to the agenda. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly called for affordable climate finance and technology access for developing countries arguing that climate action cannot advance without them.
The New Development Bank could play a larger role in financing climate projects.
The Delhi summit will test whether BRICS can turn its climate commitments into affordable finance, technology, resilient infrastructure and practical cooperation for the Global South.
