New Delhi, September 14 (APAC Media): Artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and emerging technologies emerged as major areas of cooperation at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, with member countries calling for wider access to AI, stronger global governance and greater cooperation on technology.
BRICS Pushes Wider AI Access
The New Delhi Declaration 2026 called for wider access to AI resources while stressing the need for safe, secure, inclusive, reliable, energy-efficient and trustworthy AI.
BRICS leaders also committed to implementing the grouping’s statement on the Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence, placing the Global South’s interests at the centre of discussions on AI development and regulation.
The declaration also highlighted AI’s role in science, innovation, economic growth and sustainable development, while calling for stronger cooperation to address risks linked to cybercrime, misinformation, disinformation, deepfakes, data security and malicious software.
China Backs Open-Source AI
China proposed creating an open-source AI community for BRICS countries, covering areas such as large language models, AI training, and shared digital infrastructure. The proposal seeks to deepen technological cooperation while giving emerging economies greater access to AI capabilities.
China also pushed cooperation in smart manufacturing, digital industries, science and technology talent, highlighting the use of AI and advanced technologies in industrial production.
India’s own technology priorities received support through proposals for a BRICS digital public infrastructure repository and an India Centre for BRICS Industrial Competencies, aimed at helping manufacturers and small businesses adopt Industry 4.0 and advanced digital technologies.
BRICS Expands Emerging Tech Cooperation
The technology agenda went beyond AI. BRICS highlighted cooperation in quantum technologies, startups, advanced manufacturing, and digital connectivity. The grouping also backed stronger cooperation in submarine cable infrastructure, with work underway on a possible high-speed communication network linking BRICS countries.
The bloc also discussed the digitalisation of energy systems, smart grids, energy storage and critical minerals, linking emerging technology with energy security and the transition to cleaner energy.
Cybersecurity, Digital Trust in Focus
Cybersecurity emerged as another major pillar. BRICS called for stronger cooperation on ICT security, data protection, cybercrime, misinformation and deepfakes, while supporting interoperable standards for ICT supply-chain security.
The grouping also backed technology cooperation in financial systems, including the opportunities and risks arising from AI, cybersecurity, and quantum computing.
Overall, the BRICS technology agenda is moving beyond simply adopting AI. The discussions point towards building shared digital infrastructure, open technology ecosystems, AI governance frameworks, advanced manufacturing capabilities and emerging technology partnerships to strengthen technological participation across the Global South.
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