Hosting BRICS, Touring UAE & Europe, Pitching WFH: MEA Outlines India’s Multi-Front Diplomatic And Domestic Playbook

Last Updated:May 12, 2026, 16:54 IST

An MEA briefing focused on India’s role as the host of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) in New Delhi and a strategic five-nation tour by PM Modi

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday detailed a packed diplomatic calendar for May 2026, headlined by India’s role as the host of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) in New Delhi and a strategic five-nation tour by Prime Minister Narendra Modi starting May 15.

The briefing underscored a dual-track strategy: consolidating India’s leadership within the expanded BRICS bloc while securing national interests through high-level engagements in West Asia and Europe.

The BRICS FMM: A Consensus-Driven Agenda

New Delhi is set to become the diplomatic hub for the BRICS bloc, following the last ministerial interaction held on the margins of the UNGA in late 2025. While the MEA did not confirm a final attendee list—noting it remains the prerogative of member states to decide their representation—it was confirmed that visiting Foreign Ministers will call on Prime Minister Modi.

Addressing the bloc’s future, the MEA reiterated that BRICS functions strictly on the basis of consensus. Following two previous rounds of expansion, any further growth or policy shift will require unanimous agreement, a stance India continues to champion as the chair for 2026.

The ministry also cleared the air on speculation surrounding Quad. “We are the host for Quad this year. As part of it, we have several meetings…We have some high-level meetings. We will keep you informed."

PM’s 5-Nation Tour: UAE and the Energy Mission

Prime Minister Modi will embark on a whirlwind tour from May 15 to 20, covering the UAE, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The first leg in the UAE is arguably the most critical, with energy security taking centre stage.

Amid a volatile West Asian landscape and the recent closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the PM’s talks with President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will focus on strengthening fuel supply chains. Discussions will also cover trade, investment, and the safety of the 4.5 million-strong Indian diaspora.

Europe and the Green Frontier

The European leg—spanning the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy—will pivot towards the future.

Norway & Sweden: Focus on green energy, tech innovation, and the blue economy. PM Modi will attend the 3rd India-Nordic Summit in Oslo, the first Indian PM visit to Norway in 43 years.

Netherlands & Italy: Strategic discussions on semiconductors, green hydrogen, and the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029.

Domestic Appeal: A Call for ‘National Patriotism’

During the briefing, the MEA also highlighted the Prime Minister’s recent appeal for national solidarity in the face of the West Asian energy crisis. The PM has urged citizens to “step forward and work together" by adopting fuel-saving measures, including a revival of work from home (WFH), increased use of public transport, and a temporary halt on non-essential gold imports and overseas vacations to conserve foreign exchange.

Regional Outlook: Nepal and Bangladesh

Responding to queries on the neighbourhood, the MEA described ties with Nepal as “multifaceted". Despite reports regarding Nepal PM Balen Shah refusing to meet Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, the ministry pointed to a productive meeting between the Foreign Ministers in Mauritius. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has formally been invited to Nepal, with dates currently being synchronised. Regarding Bangladesh, the MEA maintained that bilateral relations are moving in a “positive direction" through sustained engagement with the current administration.

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