Mahmud Mir
The New Delhi Declaration 2026 emphasizes the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in driving economic growth and sustainable development across nations.
BRICS leaders, during their summit on September 12, 2026, underscored the necessity for broader access to AI resources and enhanced international collaboration to ensure that AI technologies are safe, secure, inclusive, and reliable. They committed to implementing the group’s statement on ‘Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence,’ recognizing the importance of mitigating potential risks associated with AI.
The declaration, adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, outlines a comprehensive technology agenda that encompasses AI, cybersecurity, digital public infrastructure (DPI), telecommunications, quantum technologies, startups, and advanced manufacturing. It calls for collective efforts to tackle challenges in the digital landscape, including cybersecurity threats, data security issues, and the misuse of technology.
In fostering AI for science and innovation, the declaration advocates for the development of trustworthy AI technologies and improving the energy efficiency of AI systems. It highlights the significance of international cooperation in enhancing accessibility to AI resources while ensuring safety and reliability, particularly for the Global South.
The declaration also emphasizes the need for a “sovereign and self-reliant digital ecosystem,” recognizing the critical role of digital and ICT ecosystems in economic development and social inclusion. It proposes the establishment of a digital public infrastructure repository for BRICS countries to facilitate digital transformation.
Furthermore, the BRICS nations support ongoing cooperation on submarine cable infrastructure to enhance international digital connectivity and network resilience. They encourage the continuation of dialogue within the BRICS STI Steering Committee to advance feasibility studies for high-speed communication networks.
The declaration calls for common protocols and standards for ICT supply-chain security, highlighting the importance of law enforcement cooperation and joint research. It also addresses the intersection of AI and intellectual property, advocating for the respect of intellectual property rights in the digital realm.
Recognizing the vital role of youth in innovation, the declaration encourages BRICS members to engage young researchers and startups through established platforms. It supports initiatives aimed at strengthening innovation ecosystems and promoting sustainable growth, including cooperation on Industry 4.0 and advanced digital production technologies.
In summary, the New Delhi Declaration 2026 sets a forward-looking agenda for BRICS nations, aiming to harness the power of AI and digital technologies for inclusive and sustainable development.
