Leaders of the BRICS nations gathered in New Delhi on Saturday for a summit focused on trade, investment and global conflicts, as the group seeks a greater role in shaping international policy and amplifying the voice of emerging and developing economies.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is hosting Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and leaders from the bloc’s other member countries.

The summit comes against a backdrop of major geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine, conflicts in the Middle East and growing tensions between the United States and China. Those challenges are testing BRICS members’ ability to find common ground despite their differing strategic and political interests.

Security was tightened across the Indian capital for the gathering, with thousands of police and paramilitary personnel deployed around the summit venue and other parts of New Delhi. Traffic restrictions and diversions were also introduced.

Opening Saturday’s discussions, Modi sought to address concerns that BRICS is intended to serve as a counterweight to Western-led alliances. Instead, he described the group as a platform through which emerging and developing economies can gain a stronger voice in international affairs.

“BRICS is not against anyone,” Modi said.

The Indian leader said the bloc had reached a “coming of age” moment and argued that countries of the Global South should move beyond participating in the existing international system to playing a greater role in shaping its rules.

“It is time for us to translate our unity and consensus in BRICS into concrete outcomes,” Modi said.

The summit is expected to focus on strengthening economic cooperation among member countries while addressing international security challenges and the bloc’s role in global governance.