To continue multilateral cooperation and promote sustainable development, the 4th BRICS Sherpas’ meeting was held on December 11–12, 2025, culminating in the official handover of the rotating BRICS chairmanship from Brazil to India.
A Sherpa refers to a senior representative of a country who prepares drafts, technical and diplomatic coordination, and the agenda for leaders’ summits, playing a crucial role in building consensus among member states.
During the meeting, Maurício Lério, Brazil’s Sherpa, symbolically handed over the BRICS chairmanship gavel to Sudhekar Dalela, India’s Sherpa. The gavel, crafted from recycled Amazon rainforest wood, represents a commitment to sustainable development and respect for indigenous culture.
The Sherpas also reviewed Brazil’s accomplishments, covering six key areas: global cooperation in health, climate change, trade, investment and finance, multilateral architecture for peace and security, AI governance, and institutional development.
Sudhekar Dalela, while acknowledging Brazil’s achievements, stated that India’s chairmanship would be guided by principles of continuity, consolidation, and consensus, addressing emerging global priorities and the needs of the Global South.
India’s priorities for 2026 focus on four pillars: resilience, innovation, cooperation, and sustainability. These include continuing projects approved during Brazil’s chairmanship, such as disaster risk reduction systems, equitable AI use, and sharing scientific knowledge and research.
Additionally, key political topics for the Global South, including broader inclusion and diversity in global governance structures and reform of the United Nations Security Council, will be on India’s agenda. Brazil will continue to hold the BRICS chairmanship until December 31, 2025.
Code;1050-20251231
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