India Observers

  Why Unilateral Sanctions Violate International Law Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the 18th BRICS Summit, at the Bharat Mandapam, in New Delhi. (@narendramodi/IG via PTI Photo)   Unilateral and secondary sanctions are illegal under international law, as reaffirmed by BRICS member states in the New Delhi Declaration . These restrictive measures bypass the United Nations Charter, distort global trade, and disproportionately harm developing economies. Only the UN Security Council holds the legitimate authority to impose international sanctions. Unilateral & secondary sanctions are ILLEGAL — BRICS New Delhi Declaration Sanctions violate international law, run contrary to the UN Charter & distort global trade. Only the UN Security Council has right to impose them — BRICS member states pic.twitter.com/usce4QK7iR — RT (@RT_com) September 12, 2026   How do u...

 The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a significant step toward enhancing its economic and diplomatic influence by joining BRICS, a coalition of emerging economies that now includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, as well as newer members like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, and the UAE itself. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE’s minister of economy, has underscored the profound impact this membership has on the nation’s economic trajectory and global partnerships. Speaking to Nikkei Asia, Al Marri articulated how BRICS membership bolsters the UAE’s economic position by facilitating closer ties with major global players such as China and India. “The UAE has always been a place where the economy has built on the strengths and ties of major economies. The inclusion in BRICS brings the UAE strength, as well as ties with major economies such as China, India,” he remarked. His statement reflects the UAE’s longstanding strategy of leveraging its unique position ...

 As the 16th BRICS Summit draws to a close, the sentiments echoed by the leaders present highlight a decisive commitment to forging a multipolar world. This gathering has emphasized the importance of unity among emerging economies as they seek to assert their influence in the global arena, particularly in light of the increasing tensions with Western powers. Russia, as the host, has taken a clear stance, reinforcing BRICS as a formidable coalition designed to counterbalance Western dominance. A notable moment from the summit was the presentation of a symbolic “BRICS banknote” to President Vladimir Putin, which serves as a tangible representation of the bloc’s aspirations for greater economic independence. While the gesture signifies ambition, it has also sparked internal discussions, particularly from Russia's Central Bank head, Elvira Nabiullina, who expressed skepticism about the idea. This dissent highlights the complexities of implementing new financial instruments within the B...

 The UAE’s active participation in the BRICS High-Level Dialogue on Climate Change in Moscow is a powerful affirmation of the nation's unwavering commitment to global climate action and sustainable development. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak Al Shamsi’s leadership during this dialogue not only highlights the UAE’s national efforts to combat climate change but also underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time. The UAE's pledge to reduce emissions by 40 percent by 2030, as part of its Net Zero 2050 Strategy, reflects a forward-thinking approach that integrates economic growth with environmental responsibility. This ambitious commitment, coupled with the nation’s significant investments in renewable energy projects worldwide, positions the UAE as a global leader in the transition to a sustainable future. The investment of US$50 billion in renewable energy across over 70 countries, with an additional US$50 ...

 The UAE's decision to join the BRICS Summit in launching the Centre for Industrial Competencies in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) marks a significant step in global industrial cooperation. This initiative is a testament to the UAE's commitment to advancing its industrial sector and contributing to global development through multilateral collaboration. The creation of the BRICS Centre underlines the importance of partnerships in the New Industrial Revolution (NIR). As the world faces unprecedented challenges in the industrial landscape, from technological disruption to sustainability concerns, such collaborative efforts are crucial. The Centre's focus on developing industrial skills and capabilities aligns with the broader goal of ensuring that nations are not left behind in this rapidly changing environment. By participating in this initiative, the UAE is not only enhancing its own industrial competencies but also fostering ...

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in talks during the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. President Xi emphasized the need to manage the border issue properly and urged both countries to consider their overall ties. The meeting, which took place upon Indian Prime Minister Modi's request, involved a candid and thorough exchange of views on bilateral relations. Tensions have strained the relationship between India and China since their military clash in the Galwan Valley in 2020. The dispute over the Aksai Chin area escalated into a significant conflict, prompting subsequent military-level discussions to resolve border disputes. Notably, this recent interaction marked their first conversation since the G20 dinner in Indonesia in November 2022, with Prime Minister Modi raising India's concerns along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and emphasizing its importance for improving India-China relations. The dialogue between President ...