BRICS NSA Meet in Delhi: Ajit Doval Chairs Key Dialogue on Security and Strategic Cooperation

The 16th Meeting of the BRICS National Security Advisers (NSAs) opened in New Delhi on Monday at Bharat Mandapam , bringing together top security and strategic officials from member and partner countries to deliberate on a wide range of global and regional security challenges. India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is chairing the high-level conclave, which is being seen as a key preparatory step ahead of the upcoming BRICS Leaders’ Summit later this year.

The discussions are centered on some of the most pressing contemporary security concerns, including cybersecurity threats , artificial intelligence risks , terrorism , and the misuse of emerging technologies . Officials are also expected to exchange views on strengthening coordination mechanisms among BRICS nations to counter cross-border threats and enhance collective security responses in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

The meeting has drawn significant diplomatic attention due to the presence of high-profile participants. Among them is China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi , who is visiting India after nearly a year, signaling continued engagement despite ongoing tensions along the India-China border. His participation is being closely watched as an indicator of the current state of bilateral ties within the BRICS framework.

Also attending is Iran’s National Security Adviser Ghadir Nezami , who was welcomed with a traditional ceremonial gesture upon arrival, reflecting the importance New Delhi is placing on diplomatic outreach to West Asian partners. Delegates are also expected to discuss evolving situations in West Asia and other regional hotspots, underscoring BRICS’ growing focus on global conflict zones beyond its traditional economic agenda.

According to officials, the talks aim to build consensus on counterterrorism cooperation , intelligence sharing , and resilience against cyber and technological disruptions. India is expected to push for a stronger collective approach against terrorism networks and cybercrime, while also advocating responsible use of emerging technologies such as AI.

The conclave also serves as a platform for informal diplomatic engagement between key global players within BRICS, allowing for behind-the-scenes dialogue on sensitive geopolitical issues. With rising global instability and shifting power dynamics, the discussions are being viewed as an important indicator of how BRICS intends to position itself as a security and strategic bloc in the coming years.

As the meeting progresses, its outcomes are expected to shape the agenda for the BRICS Leaders’ Summit, particularly on issues related to global governance , security cooperation , and managing emerging technological risks in an interconnected world.