Kazan, Russia: In a speech emphasizing solidarity, innovation, and sustainable development, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged BRICS nations to become a driving force in global governance reform, calling on member states to “forge ahead with one heart and one mind.” Addressing fellow BRICS leaders at the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia, Xi presented a comprehensive vision for the grouping’s role in advancing peace, economic innovation, green development, and people-to-people exchanges among Global South nations.
The summit, hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin, concluded with the adoption of the Kazan Declaration and outlined new criteria for BRICS partner country status, marking a significant moment for BRICS expansion. “The enlargement of BRICS is a major milestone in its history, and a landmark event in the evolution of the international situation,” Xi remarked, underscoring the importance of collaboration among emerging economies to counterbalance traditional Western-led institutions.
Key Themes from Xi’s Address: Peace, Security, and Cooperation
Xi’s speech called for BRICS countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—to unify efforts in promoting global stability and addressing international conflicts. He proposed that BRICS act as “defenders of common security,” while adhering to the principles of “common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security.” This vision aligns with China’s broader foreign policy strategy, which stresses diplomacy and peaceful coexistence, particularly in regions experiencing conflict.
Regarding the ongoing Ukraine crisis, Xi reiterated the need to limit the expansion of battlefields, avoid escalation, and seek swift de-escalation. Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the hostilities in Lebanon, Xi urged immediate ceasefires to halt further bloodshed. “We must make unremitting efforts toward a comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution of the Palestinian question,” he emphasized, demonstrating China’s commitment to advocating for diplomatic solutions in the Middle East.
Innovation and Green Development as Pillars of BRICS Collaboration
In a bid to position BRICS as a hub for technological advancement and sustainable practices, Xi announced several initiatives aimed at fostering innovation across member states. These include the establishment of a BRICS Deep-Sea Resources International Research Center, a BRICS Industrial Competencies Center, and a BRICS Digital Ecosystem Cooperation Network. By promoting research in fields like deep-sea exploration, digital infrastructure, and green industries, these initiatives are expected to enhance member countries’ technological capabilities and drive economic growth in emerging sectors.
“China is willing to expand cooperation with BRICS countries in green industries, clean energy, and green mining,” Xi said, stressing the importance of embedding green development practices across industrial sectors. He highlighted the need for BRICS nations to adopt sustainable approaches in every aspect of production, which he believes will help mitigate the effects of climate change and boost economic resilience.
Xi further proposed that the New Development Bank (NDB), a financial institution established by BRICS, be expanded and strengthened to better reflect shifts in the global economic landscape. This suggestion aligns with BRICS’ broader goal of reforming international financial institutions to offer developing countries more equitable representation and influence.
Boosting Digital Education and Cultural Exchanges
Xi also outlined steps to enhance digital education within BRICS nations, announcing a new capacity-building program and the establishment of ten learning centers across member countries over the next five years. The program aims to provide training opportunities for 1,000 local education administrators, teachers, and students, equipping them with digital skills essential for a modern workforce. These initiatives reflect a commitment to increasing educational access, particularly in areas that are underserved.
Highlighting the importance of cultural collaboration, Xi encouraged the exchange of governance practices and knowledge across BRICS members, especially in education, sports, and the arts. “Our diverse cultures can inspire one another and illuminate the path forward for BRICS,” he stated, suggesting that cultural exchange can strengthen bonds among BRICS nations and foster mutual understanding.
Expanding BRICS Membership: A Call to the Global South
At the summit, Xi also expressed support for expanding BRICS membership to include more nations from the Global South. This call for expansion resonates with BRICS’ mission to amplify the voice of developing countries on the global stage. “In light of the rise of the Global South, we should respond favorably to the calls from various countries to join BRICS,” Xi said, emphasizing that a larger coalition could increase BRICS’ influence in shaping global governance.
Expanding membership could enhance the representation of emerging economies in international decision-making processes, thereby balancing global power dynamics that have traditionally favored Western powers. With these changes, Xi envisions BRICS as a primary platform for countries in the Global South to collaborate and advocate for fairer and more inclusive global policies.
Russia and South Africa Support BRICS Vision
The summit saw alignment between Xi’s goals and statements from other BRICS leaders. Russian President Vladimir Putin endorsed the vision of a cooperative BRICS, highlighting the need to boost collaboration in areas such as technology, education, efficient resource development, and finance. “We must significantly increase the scale of investments,” Putin asserted, calling for further integration of the BRICS economies to foster collective prosperity.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the role of BRICS in building a fairer world. “The Kazan summit serves as an opportunity to harness our collective strength to build a safer, more prosperous, and equitable world,” he said. Ramaphosa pointed out that challenges faced by one BRICS nation affect all members, reinforcing the need for solidarity among emerging economies in the face of global instability.
BRICS’ Commitment to a New Era of Global Governance
The Kazan summit reflected BRICS’ commitment to redefining international cooperation and governance structures. As power dynamics shift and emerging economies gain influence, BRICS is positioning itself as an alternative to traditional Western-led organizations like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The New Development Bank, in particular, is seen as a symbol of this alternative—a financial institution that prioritizes the needs of developing countries over the interests of developed nations.
Xi’s speech underscored BRICS’ mission to act as a force for stability, inclusivity, and growth for emerging economies. His call for cooperation in green industries, digital innovation, and education serves as a roadmap for the BRICS nations to adapt to the challenges of the 21st century, from climate change to digital transformation. As the world continues to face unprecedented challenges, BRICS leaders are unified in their belief that a collaborative, multi-polar approach to global governance is essential.
Looking Forward: BRICS’ Role in a Changing World
The outcomes of the 16th BRICS Summit mark a pivotal moment for the organization, signaling its readiness to play a more active role in global affairs. The adoption of the Kazan Declaration and the new partner country criteria reflect BRICS’ commitment to inclusivity and growth. By prioritizing issues like peace, sustainable development, and cultural exchange, BRICS is evolving into a platform that not only serves its member states but also advocates for the interests of the broader Global South.
With the expansion of membership and a focus on pressing global issues, BRICS is poised to become a central figure in international governance reform. The vision set forth by President Xi and other leaders at the Kazan summit reaffirms BRICS’ dedication to fostering a balanced, multipolar world order—one where emerging economies have a say in shaping their futures.
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