India is walking a diplomatic tightrope as it seeks to maintain constructive ties with both China and Russia, two dominant members of the BRICS grouping, according to a report by The Diplomat. The country’s foreign policy approach emphasizes strategic autonomy, aiming to avoid being drawn into the geopolitical rivalry that has intensified since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing border standoff with China.
At the recent BRICS summit, Indian officials underscored the importance of the bloc for expanding trade, investment, and development cooperation among emerging economies. At the same time, they signaled a cautious stance on issues where the interests of Beijing and Moscow diverge from New Delhi’s own security calculations. The Diplomat notes that India has repeatedly called for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict while also refraining from overt criticism of Russia, reflecting its long‑standing defence partnership and energy ties.
China’s growing economic clout and its assertive posture along the Himalayan frontier present a separate set of challenges for India. The Diplomat highlights that New Delhi continues to engage Beijing on trade and multilateral platforms, yet it remains vigilant about the implications of China’s Belt and Road initiatives and its increasing presence in the Indian Ocean region. Indian policymakers have reiterated the need for a rules‑based order and respect for sovereignty, themes that echo broader concerns within the BRICS community.
Within the BRICS framework, India is also positioning itself as a bridge between the group’s diverse members. The Diplomat points out that New Delhi has advocated for expanding the bloc’s membership to include additional developing nations, arguing that a broader coalition could enhance the group’s global influence without compromising the individual interests of existing members. This stance aligns with India’s broader goal of shaping a multipolar world order that offers alternatives to Western‑led institutions.
Economic considerations remain central to India’s calculus. The country seeks greater access to BRICS development banks and financing mechanisms to support infrastructure projects and renewable energy initiatives. At the same time, it is cautious about deepening financial interdependence with Russia, given the sanctions regime imposed by the United States and the European Union. The Diplomat reports that Indian officials are exploring ways to navigate these constraints while safeguarding critical energy supplies.
Analysts cited by The Diplomat warn that India’s balancing act will be tested by future developments, including any escalation of Sino‑Indian border tensions or further entrenchment of Russia’s ties with the West’s adversaries. The country’s ability to maintain a neutral yet engaged posture will depend on its diplomatic agility and the flexibility of the BRICS platform to accommodate divergent national interests.
Overall, the report concludes that India’s strategy at the BRICS summit reflects a broader effort to assert its role as a responsible stakeholder in global governance, while carefully managing the competing demands of its two powerful neighbours.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by The Diplomat — original source: https://thediplomat.com/2026/09/balancing-china-and-russia-indias-tightrope-walk-at-brics/.