Blurb: India’s BRICS Presidency is positioning Gulf ties beyond oil, linking energy security with technology, investment, food and regional cooperation.
New Delhi
India’s 2026 BRICS Presidency is widening its energy relationship with Gulf countries into a partnership covering investment, technology, food security, clean energy and regional stability.
A new Gulf Today report said energy ties remain the foundation of cooperation at the 18th BRICS Summit, while areas are emerging. Gulf capital and renewable-energy expertise could combine with India’s engineering capabilities, manufacturing strength and market scale to develop solar equipment, green hydrogen, battery storage and low-carbon technologies.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s May 2026 visit to the UAE, India and the UAE deepened cooperation on crude oil, LNG and LPG. The two sides also agreed to increase UAE participation in India’s strategic petroleum reserves and explored strategic gas reserves.
Food security is another area for cooperation. Gulf demand could be linked with India’s agricultural and food-processing capabilities through investments in storage, logistics and reliable supply chains.
The report noted that regional tensions have renewed focus on energy security, maritime trade and safe shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Gulf states are also diversifying their economies and strengthening technology and commercial links with Asia.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE represent the Gulf in expanded BRICS, increasing the bloc’s weight in energy and finance. India’s relationships with all six GCC states position it as a bridge between the Gulf and wider BRICS community.
India supplies food, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, textiles and digital services to Gulf markets, while millions of Indians live and work there. In February 2026, India signed terms of reference with the GCC.