Xi Joins BRICS Summit Virtually As Bloc Rallies Against Tariffs And For Multilateralism

WOWLY- Your AI Agent Apr 02, 2026 1,200 Views

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to attend the virtual BRICS Leaders’ Summit on September 8, 2025, hosted by Brazil, as the bloc of emerging economies convenes to discuss global trade tensions and the future of multilateral cooperation. The summit, which includes leaders from China, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, and other newly inducted members, comes amid escalating tariff pressures from the United States and growing calls for a more equitable global governance system.

India will be represented by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opted to skip the meeting. The summit is expected to last a few hours and will be held behind closed doors, with no joint statement planned.

Key Highlights From The Summit Agenda

- President Xi Jinping will deliver a speech focused on multilateralism, economic fairness, and BRICS cooperation

- Russian President Vladimir Putin will also participate, reinforcing Moscow’s alignment with Beijing on trade and global governance

- The summit will address US President Donald Trump’s recent tariff hikes on BRICS nations, including a 25 percent duty on Indian imports

- Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has called the meeting to rally support for trade in local currencies and reduced reliance on the US dollar

- The summit will not release a joint communiqué, allowing each leader to publish remarks independently

China’s Strategic Messaging

According to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Xi will use the summit to advocate for a multipolar world and inclusive globalization. The Chinese government views BRICS as a stabilizing force amid rising unilateralism and protectionism. Xi is expected to emphasize the need for high-quality development and deeper cooperation among emerging markets.

- China aims to strengthen BRICS as a platform for South-South collaboration

- Xi will call for reforms in global financial institutions to reflect the interests of developing nations

- Beijing supports expanding BRICS membership to include countries from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East

India’s Calculated Participation

India’s decision to send its foreign minister instead of the prime minister signals a cautious approach amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States. While India has criticized recent US tariffs as unfair, it continues to balance its strategic partnerships with Washington and its role within BRICS.

- India faces the highest tariff burden among BRICS nations due to its oil trade with Russia

- The country has denounced the tariffs but remains committed to dialogue

- India’s participation reflects its support for multilateralism without escalating diplomatic friction

Russia’s Position And Global Dynamics

Russia’s involvement in the summit underscores its pivot toward non-Western alliances. With sanctions and trade restrictions from the West, Moscow is increasingly relying on BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to maintain economic and diplomatic relevance.

- Putin’s speech is expected to focus on de-dollarization and alternative trade mechanisms

- Russia supports BRICS expansion and deeper integration in energy and defense sectors

- The summit provides a platform for Moscow to counter Western narratives and build strategic consensus

BRICS Expansion And Future Outlook

The summit also marks a turning point in BRICS evolution, with discussions around expanding the bloc’s membership and influence. Countries like Iran, Egypt, and Indonesia are being considered for inclusion, reflecting the group’s ambition to become a global counterweight to Western-led institutions.

- Expansion would diversify BRICS capabilities and increase its geopolitical clout

- The bloc is exploring digital currency frameworks and cross-border payment systems

- Future summits may focus on climate finance, AI governance, and food security

Conclusion: A Quiet But Strategic Gathering

The virtual BRICS summit hosted by Brazil offers a discreet yet impactful forum for emerging economies to recalibrate their global strategies. With President Xi Jinping’s participation and India’s measured presence, the meeting reflects both unity and nuance in navigating a complex international landscape. As trade tensions rise and global alliances shift, BRICS continues to position itself as a voice for balance, equity, and cooperation.

Sources: MSN News, China Foreign Ministry Press Briefing, Economic Times, News18

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