In response to an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to attend the 16th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting in Kazan, Russia, from October 22 to 24.
Since the establishment of the BRICS cooperation mechanism in 2006, the BRICS nations have steadily deepened their collaboration. This collective rise of emerging market countries and developing nations is significantly reshaping the global landscape. President Xi has often expressed the “Chinese voice” within the BRICS framework, articulating the spirit of BRICS and providing strategic direction for development.
On August 23, 2023, the 15th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting took place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. In his keynote address titled “Unity and Cooperation for Development, Responsibilities for Peace,” President Xi highlighted the current period of global upheaval characterized by significant adjustments and increased uncertainties. He emphasized the essential role of BRICS in shaping the international landscape. The BRICS countries have chosen their development paths autonomously, steadfastly defending their rights to development and modernization, representing a forward trajectory for humanity that profoundly influences global development.
Reflecting on history, President Xi reaffirmed the BRICS spirit of openness, inclusivity, and mutual benefit, which has propelled BRICS cooperation to new heights, aiding the development of its member nations. He also underscored the commitment to international fairness and justice, advocating for the voices of emerging market countries and developing nations to be amplified in key global and regional issues.
At the 9th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting held on September 4, 2017, in Xiamen, President Xi delivered a significant address titled “Deepening BRICS Partnership for a Brighter Future.” He articulated that the rapid advancement of BRICS cooperation is due to a shared understanding and mutual respect among member nations, promoting a spirit of collaboration that aligns with each country’s unique context.
Moreover, in a keynote speech at the BRICS Business Forum on September 3, 2017, President Xi pointed out that BRICS is not merely a platform for discussions but rather a cohesive action-oriented team. The five nations are striving towards a comprehensive partnership, advancing practical cooperation across trade, finance, infrastructure, and cultural exchange, thus exemplifying a new type of international relationship.
During the 7th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting in Ufa, Russia, on July 9, 2015, President Xi stressed that the success of BRICS cooperation proves that diverse social systems can coexist and collaborate. He advocated for an inclusive approach, where nations learn from each other and make collective advancements despite differences.
On September 9, 2021, President Xi addressed the 13th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting via video link, emphasizing the need for adaptability to the evolving global landscape. He called for more pragmatic and focused cooperation across various fields, ensuring tangible outcomes and allowing BRICS to rejuvenate under shared efforts.
Again, on August 23, 2023, at the 15th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting, President Xi reinforced the importance of cooperation for revitalization and explicitly rejected “decoupling” and economic coercion, urging for practical collaborations particularly in digital economy, green development, and supply chains.
In his remarks during the special video summit on the Palestinian-Israeli issue on November 21, 2023, President Xi highlighted the BRICS mechanism as a critical platform for emerging market economies and developing countries to unite and safeguard shared interests. This week saw an efficient start in coordinating stances and actions regarding the newly expanded BRICS cooperation.
On June 23, 2022, during the 14th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting held via video in Beijing, President Xi articulated that BRICS is neither an exclusive club nor a closed circle but a supportive family and collaborative partner, promoting the “BRICS+” cooperation model. He emphasized the need for BRICS to remain open to promote development and foster collaboration.
Finally, President Xi reiterated the call for inclusion during the press conference on August 24, 2023, at the 15th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting in Johannesburg. He declared that the recent expansion of BRICS signifies a historic milestone, embodying the commitment to solidarity with developing countries and aligning with the international community’s expectations. He believes that through joint efforts, the BRICS cooperation may flourish and have a promising future ahead.
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