Focus Interview- Big BRICS, great unity, great achievements
On October 22-24, 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to attend the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, at the invitation of Russian leaders. President Xi has participated in every BRICS meeting since 2013, introducing important proposals and initiatives, including the “BRICS Plus” cooperation model. His proactive approach has greatly enhanced BRICS cooperation, making significant impacts at every critical juncture and leaving a lasting Chinese mark on the framework. With joint efforts from China and its BRICS partners, the group’s influence has strengthened, making it a prominent advocate for common values, mutual benefits, and collective self-reliance, thereby contributing significantly to a multi-polar world and inclusive economic globalization.
In the golden autumn of October, President Xi will visit the ancient city of Kazan on the banks of the Volga River. This marks his first international trip following the successful convening of the 20th CPC Central Committee’s Third Plenary Session, as well as the first summit after BRICS underwent historical expansion. During his brief stay of less than 48 hours, Xi will participate in over ten activities, engaging with both long-time friends and new allies in a packed agenda focused on practical cooperation and rich discussions. Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi briefed reporters on the visit’s context as it wrapped up.
Ding Xiaoxing, Director of the Eurasia Research Institute at the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations, reflected, “This summit is significant as it is the first after the enlargement of BRICS and serves as a pivotal meeting. As President Xi mentioned, discussions on the strategic direction and overall development of BRICS were held, defining its future path and strengthening its position in global governance for a greater impact.”
Originating amidst the rise of emerging markets and developing countries, the BRICS cooperation mechanism has significantly influenced global dynamics. Over the past 18 years, BRICS has expanded, with its member countries accounting for nearly half of the world’s population and over 30% of the global economy, contributing more than 50% to global economic growth. It has become a hallmark and crucial platform for solidarity and collaboration among emerging markets and developing nations.
Sun Zhuangzhi, Director at the Institute of Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted, “In 2017, during the Xiamen BRICS Summit, China initiated the ‘BRICS Plus’ cooperation model, enhancing the openness and representation of BRICS, especially with the recent expansion. It allows BRICS to voice the perspectives of the ‘Global South’ and advocate for a fair and just international order, as well as drive greater reform in the global governance system.”
President Xi actively participated in both small and large meetings of BRICS leaders, elaborating on the development direction and basic principles of the “Big BRICS Cooperation” in light of new challenges post-expansion. He emphasized that the unity of BRICS nations is rooted in their shared aspirations. In his speech at the summit, Xi called for the construction of a “Peaceful BRICS,” positioning the group as defenders of common security.
Ding explained, “Peace is invaluable. Achieving it requires adhering to a new security concept that emphasizes collective, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security. Otherwise, if certain nations build their security on others’ instability, global turbulence will persist.” Xi also expressed China’s views on two ongoing conflicts, urging for their prompt resolution.
Xi further highlighted the need to build an “Innovative BRICS,” taking the lead in high-quality development, and a “Green BRICS,” acting as champions of sustainable progress. Ding remarked, “China is currently a leader in solar energy, wind energy, and electric vehicles. We are eager to leverage our advantages to enhance cooperation among BRICS nations contributing to the global green economy. This aligns with China’s new development philosophy and high-quality development approach.”
Xi underscored the importance of a “Just BRICS,” promoting reforms in the global governance system, and advocating for true multilateralism grounded in equitable, inclusive governance principles to steer global governance reform.
Sun Zhuangzhi asserted, “We hope to advance the multipolarization process and uphold genuine multilateralism. Given the profound global changes today, it is crucial to forge a future where all countries can experience greater fairness, and we can champion equal and orderly multipolarization through the power of BRICS.”
Xi Jinping also stressed the need to build a “Cultural BRICS,” promoting coexistence among civilizations and advocating for cultural inclusivity. Ding highlighted, “Xi has consistently pointed out that connections between countries depend on friendships among people. Under the BRICS framework, various cultural exchange mechanisms have been established, such as platforms for governance discussions and youth exchanges. Initiatives including the establishment of ten overseas centers and training opportunities for 1,000 educators were also proposed.”
Faced with the strong desire of over 30 countries to join BRICS, Xi emphasized the need for member states to uphold the principle of openness and inclusive cooperation, responding actively to the calls from the Global South and welcoming more nations to partake in the BRICS mission. The Kazan summit consensus reflected this spirit, inviting a new group of countries to join as BRICS partners.
Wang Wen, Director of the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University of China, expressed, “The international influence of ‘Big BRICS’ is unprecedented. A significant feature of today’s world is the cooperation among major non-Western economies striving for improvement in global economic, financial, trade, and political orders. This collaboration has brought various nation states together at the BRICS mechanism, highlighting its representational and influential strength during a time when the pursuit for a just international order unites us all.”
In recent years, Xi has keenly observed global trends and articulated initiatives for global development, security, and civilization. During the Kazan summit, he emphasized that the collective modernization journey of Global South countries marks a momentous chapter in world history, though the path ahead will undeniably be challenging. As leading members of the Global South, BRICS countries must demonstrate collective resolve to maintain peace, rejuvenate development, and promote cultural exchange.
Wang remarked, “In the security realm, this includes political, military, and ideological dimensions. By advocating for universal security, we strive for a brighter world. In development, the focus is on sustained economic growth across finance, trade, and investment. Cultural exchanges to foster shared learning and mutual understanding are essential. The future hinges on three pillars: global development, security, and civilization initiatives. These frameworks will better advance China’s experiences, propositions, and solutions within the BRICS context.”
Xi Jinping’s announcement of China’s proactive engagement aligns with the shared aspirations of the Global South for unity, development, and reform—reinforcing that China is not merely engaging in dialogue but is committed to tangible actions.
Soo Xiaohui, a researcher at the China Institute of International Studies, noted, “For Global South countries, there is an increasing acknowledgment of their power on the world stage, yet their voices and representation still fall short. Thus, within the BRICS framework, China emphasizes that BRICS should represent the Global South to further push for a just and equitable international order. The aim is to improve the external environment for developing countries while enhancing their role in global governance.”
During the Kazan summit, President Xi held bilateral meetings with several foreign leaders, discussing bilateral relations and substantial international issues, achieving several new important understandings. This year marks the 75th anniversary of Sino-Russian diplomatic ties, and President Xi had another meeting with President Putin, continuing the remarkable rapport between the two leaders.
Ding reflected, “The 75-year history of Sino-Russian relations has seen many challenges, yet today the relationship is mature and stable, at its historical best. There is a high level of political trust between our two nations, demonstrated through over 40 meetings between our leaders, including discussions about future development at this summit.”
Wang Yi mentioned the global attention surrounding President Xi’s bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Modi, which marked their first formal dialogue in five years. Xi highlighted vital proposals for the future of China-India relations, advocating for the two countries to maintain a correct strategic understanding, striving for harmonious coexistence and mutual development. Modi positively responded, offering specific ideas and suggestions for improving bilateral ties.
Wang noted, “The attention on the meeting between the Chinese and Indian leaders highlights the strength of the BRICS mechanism, which allows for resolution and coordination even amid existing tensions or conflicts. This demonstrates the inclusive and constructive nature of the BRICS framework.”
Wang Yi concluded that China aims to unite BRICS and Global South partners to continue pursuing dreams within a new journey of development and revitalization, actively contributing to global change amidst significant shifts in the world.
As turbulent times unfold, BRICS nations must lead with resilience, courage, and strategic adaptability, collectively crafting a new chapter in high-quality “Big BRICS Cooperation.” It’s essential to grasp the profound insights carried by President Xi’s visit, steering toward unity, cooperation, and mutual prosperity in the face of global complexities, ultimately creating a more impactful era for diplomacy with Chinese characteristics as we deepen reforms, advance modernization, and build a shared future for humanity.
