New Delhi

Ministry of External Affairs on Monday outlined India’s diplomatic agenda for May 2026, highlighting two major priorities: hosting the upcoming BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s five-nation tour beginning May 15.

According to the ministry, India is pursuing a dual-track diplomatic strategy focused on strengthening its leadership role within the expanded BRICS grouping while simultaneously advancing national interests through engagements in West Asia and Europe.

New Delhi will host the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the first major ministerial gathering since the 2025 discussions held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. The MEA said visiting foreign ministers are expected to call on Prime Minister Modi during the summit.

On the future expansion of BRICS, the ministry reiterated that the bloc functions “strictly on the basis of consensus,” adding that any future enlargement or policy change would require unanimous approval from member states.

The ministry also confirmed that India, as this year’s host of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, will organise several meetings, including high-level engagements, though details are yet to be announced.

Prime Minister Modi’s May 15–20 tour will cover the United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy.

The UAE leg is expected to focus heavily on energy security and strengthening fuel supply chains amid ongoing regional tensions. Modi is scheduled to hold talks with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with discussions also expected to cover the welfare of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf nation.

The Nordic portion of the visit will emphasise green technologies, innovation, and the blue economy. Modi’s visit to Norway for the 3rd India-Nordic Summit will mark the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Norway in over four decades.

In the Netherlands and Italy, discussions are expected to focus on semiconductors and implementation of the “Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029.”

READ MORE: Syed Tanveer Nasrin: Ambassador of culture, women rights and harmony

The MEA also commented on regional diplomacy, describing India’s relationship with Nepal as “multifaceted” and saying ties with Bangladesh continue to move in a “positive direction” through ongoing high-level engagement.