Xi calls for stronger BRICS voice for the global south

President Xi Jinping has advocated for a more potent BRICS voice to represent the Global South in shaping the global order. At the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Xi challenged the group to be a trailblazer for innovation, peace, cooperation, and reform in global governance. The world is experiencing significant shifts, with emerging economies gaining more influence and the shift towards a multipolar world becoming more apparent.

Xi urged BRICS countries to spearhead advancements in emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence, advocating for greater transparency, collaboration, and knowledge exchange in AI development. China introduced a BRICS initiative focused on AI-empowered new industrialization, emphasizing deepening cooperation in research, applications, and industrial supply chains.

Regarding peace and security, Xi called for the end of bloc confrontations and interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states, urging BRICS to play a positive role in resolving global conflicts, including tensions in the Middle East. He also emphasized the importance of cultural, tourism, and educational exchanges to foster greater mutual understanding and strengthen international relations.

On the topic of global governance, Xi urged BRICS to strive for a fairer and more equitable international system, uphold the United Nations' authority, and amplify the voices of developing countries. The summit marks the 20th anniversary of BRICS cooperation, with the group expanding its membership and broadening collaboration across various sectors.

Next year, China will assume the BRICS chairmanship and host the 19th BRICS Summit. Xi expressed confidence that Beijing will collaborate with all members to achieve consensus and usher in what he termed a third golden decade of BRICS cooperation. The New Delhi Declaration adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit reiterates members' commitment to multilateralism, free trade, sovereign equality, and a more inclusive global order.