Xi Jinping meets Modi in New Delhi to demand rejection of protectionism at BRICS Summit 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Saturday, September 12, 2026, during the 18th BRICS summit. State media reported that Beijing criticized 'arbitrary commercial tariffs' and asked members to reject all forms of protectionism. Although Xinhua stated these remarks were not directed at a specific country, analysts suggest they are intended for the United States. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will not attend the meeting personally; Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira will represent him. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian participated in the discussions. Leaders also expressed concern over rising tensions in the Middle East and condemned unauthorized UN-sanctioned actions, including Western sanctions on Russia regarding its invasion of Ukraine. Saudi Arabia is participating as an invited nation, with Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan arriving to represent Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.