On October 22-24, President Xi Jinping visited Russia at the invitation of the host country to attend the 16th BRICS Leaders’ Summit. As the trip concluded, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee and China’s Foreign Minister, briefed accompanying journalists on the visit.
In the golden autumn of October, President Xi flew to the ancient city of Kazan on the banks of the Volga River to participate in this significant summit. This visit marked his first international engagement following the successful convening of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party, and it was the first summit since the historic expansion of BRICS. During his less-than-48-hour stay in Kazan, President Xi actively participated in over ten events, combining multilateral and bilateral engagements, engaging with both old friends and new partners in an agenda that was both rich and efficient. The visit received significant attention from domestic and international media, with many outlets noting the substantial achievements and highlights of this trip, which they believed contributed to a new chapter of unity and resilience among BRICS countries, paving the way for development and prosperity in the Global South. Amidst the unprecedented changes in the world, the BRICS collaboration is leading a significant unity among the Global South, with far-reaching historical implications.
The BRICS cooperation mechanism emerged from the collective rise of emerging markets and developing countries, playing a crucial role in the evolution of the global landscape and the balance of international power. It has become the gold standard and the most important platform for solidarity and cooperation among today’s developing nations.
Throughout the visit, President Xi participated in both large and small BRICS leader meetings, addressing the new dynamics following the BRICS expansion. He outlined the development direction and fundamental principles of the “BRICS+ cooperation,” emphasizing that the unity of BRICS countries is rooted in their shared aspirations. In challenging times, he urged that we should stand at the forefront of change, demonstrating historical agency through resilience, boldness, and adaptability, to make BRICS a key channel for fostering unity and cooperation in the Global South and spearheading reforms in global governance.
President Xi analyzed the evolution of the international landscape and the trends in global development while articulating China’s proposals for high-quality development within the “BRICS+” framework. He announced eight practical measures to support this high-quality development, thereby expanding the breadth and depth of the BRICS cooperation, reinforcing its foundational structures, and enhancing its credibility and effectiveness.
In light of the strong aspirations of over 30 countries to join BRICS, President Xi emphasized the need for BRICS nations to uphold an open and inclusive spirit dedicated to cooperation and mutual benefit. The summit achieved consensus among participants to invite a new batch of countries to become BRICS partner nations, marking another significant step following the welcoming of five new members at last year’s Johannesburg Summit. This not only enhances the representation of the BRICS cooperation mechanism but also amplifies its appeal, influence, and vitality, establishing it as a strategic force in building a more equitable and reasonable global governance system.
Since 2013, President Xi has actively attended consecutive BRICS Leaders’ Summits and has put forth numerous significant proposals, including the innovative “BRICS+” cooperation model. His proactive efforts have propelled BRICS cooperation to new heights, leaving a distinct Chinese mark at critical junctures within the mechanism. The gathering in Kazan saw leaders from over 30 countries participate in the “BRICS+” leaders’ dialogue, where discussions centered on strengthening multilateralism and promoting just global development and security.
During the summit, President Xi engaged in multiple bilateral meetings with foreign leaders, addressing key international and regional issues of mutual concern, and reaching new significant agreements. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia. President Xi once again met with President Putin, continuing their shared narrative. Both leaders commended the relationship between their countries, recognizing that they have found a correct approach to coexistence that is “non-aligned, non-confrontational, and non-targeting of third parties.” They agreed to uphold the spirit of permanent neighborly friendship, comprehensive strategic collaboration, and mutual cooperation for mutual benefit, setting an example of a new type of great power relationship in the new era.
The bilateral meeting between President Xi and Indian Prime Minister Modi attracted considerable attention, as it was their first formal meeting in five years. President Xi proposed important ideas on the future of China-India relations, emphasizing the need for the two nations to maintain correct strategic perceptions and work together for harmonious coexistence and mutual development, setting an example for other developing countries seeking unity and self-strengthening. Prime Minister Modi responded positively and presented specific ideas and suggestions for improving bilateral relations. The rekindling of China-India relations in Kazan promises to benefit the 2.8 billion people of both countries and contribute to regional and global peace and prosperity.
It is noteworthy that during discussions with President Xi, leaders from various nations reiterated their firm commitment to the One China principle and support for China’s legitimate stance on core issues. They expressed a desire to further strengthen development strategy alignment and enhance comprehensive strategic cooperation, collectively safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of Global South countries and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for humanity. Many leaders expressed their appreciation for China’s objective and fair stance on issues like Palestine, characterizing China as a sincere and trustworthy friend and partner, and expressing hope for a larger international role for China. President Xi’s friendly interactions highlighted the stature of a prominent leader and further solidified and expanded China’s network of friendships.
As the world continues to evolve, China remains committed to uniting with BRICS and global South partners, alongside the international community, to pursue dreams on the path of development and revitalization, to take responsibility amidst the century’s changes, and to strive together for the advancement of human civilization.
