New Delhi, February 10, 2026 – Russia has extended strong support to India’s agenda for its 2026 BRICS chairship, particularly emphasizing cooperation on counter-terrorism and energy security, as affirmed during high-level diplomatic engagements.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko conveyed Moscow’s backing during discussions with India’s BRICS Sherpa, Secretary (Economic Relations) Sudhakar Dalela, on the sidelines of the inaugural Sherpa Meeting in New Delhi. Russia highlighted the importance of unified action against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, while stressing the need for reliable and sustainable energy supplies amid global challenges.

The endorsement aligns with India’s chairship theme: Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability. Key focus areas include strengthening multilateral frameworks for counter-terrorism, promoting clean energy transitions, and enhancing supply chain resilience within the expanded BRICS grouping.

Dalela welcomed Russia’s proactive stance, noting it reinforces shared commitments to addressing transnational threats and fostering equitable energy access. The discussions also touched on broader priorities such as economic recovery, technological innovation, and reforms in global governance.

This early alignment between two founding BRICS members sets a positive tone for the year ahead, with upcoming meetings expected to build consensus on actionable outcomes for the annual Summit. Russia’s support underscores the grouping’s role in amplifying Global South perspectives on critical security and developmental issues.

The Sherpa Meeting, which kicked off India’s fourth BRICS chairship, continues deliberations on a comprehensive roadmap, reflecting the bloc’s growing influence representing over 40% of the world’s population.