EAM Jaishankar Flags Global Volatility at BRICS 2026
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has warned that volatility, uncertainty and complexity are increasingly defining the global political and economic environment, as BRICS leaders and officials gather in New Delhi amid wars, energy disruptions and shifting economic relationships.
Jaishankar Says Global Order Is Under Churn
Addressing the BRICS gathering, Jaishankar said the international political and economic order was undergoing significant change, creating new challenges for governments and businesses.
He pointed to the economic consequences of geopolitical conflicts, the lasting impact of pandemics and growing climate-related disruptions as factors reshaping the world economy.
His remarks come as BRICS members confront several immediate challenges, including conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine, disruptions to global energy supplies and growing pressure on international trade and financial systems.
Technology Creates New Growth Opportunities
Jaishankar said the changing global environment was not defined entirely by risks. Rapid digitisation and technological advances were also creating new opportunities for economic growth, productivity and development.
Technologies including artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and advanced manufacturing are increasingly reshaping economies while allowing developing countries to participate in new areas of global growth.
Jaishankar said both opportunities and risks were becoming more widely distributed, increasing the importance of countries being able to anticipate and adapt to rapid change.
BRICS Meets Amid Growing Global Uncertainty
India is hosting the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi on September 12-13, bringing together major emerging economies at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions.
The expanded grouping represents a significant share of the world’s population and economy, giving its members increasing influence over debates surrounding trade, development, technology and reform of global institutions.
India has positioned its BRICS presidency around strengthening cooperation while ensuring that the grouping remains responsive to the priorities of developing economies.
