China This Week | China as ‘anchor of BRICS’, potential of ties with India: How Chinese media reported on summit

Chinese President Xi Jinping wrapped up his first visit to India in seven years at the conclusion of the BRICS Summit on September 13. The two-day gathering didn't yield any surprises, with the member countries largely agreeing on issues such as "unilateral protectionist measures." The final declaration signed by the countries reinforced the grouping's shared concerns.

Iran expressed solidarity with China by targeting U.S. military bases in the UAE following the war that began in February. China will host the upcoming BRICS summit in 2027, taking over the rotating presidency.

Major Chinese media outlets reported on the summit, highlighting China's pivotal role in the organization. China Daily, an English newspaper, called 2026 the 20th anniversary of BRICS cooperation and emphasized the group's influence in addressing unilateralism and power politics. The Global Times, a tabloid newspaper, described China as the "anchor of BRICS cooperation" and credited President Xi for proposing the "BRICS Plus" model to expand the group's international reach.

A report quoted a Chinese expert stating that the New Delhi meeting marked a new phase of confidence-building, focusing on turning strategic consensus into concrete mechanisms and results. The story highlighted positive aspects of India-China trade ties, noting China's demand for Indian products and the potential for further economic cooperation.

However, the article also acknowledged challenges, such as the trade deficit and strategic mistrust, suggesting that both countries should manage these issues responsibly through strategic communication and dialogue.