On September 13, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech at the 18th BRICS Leaders' Meeting in New Delhi, India. The meeting was held under the theme of "Consolidating the foundation of BRICS cooperation and amplifying the power of the Global South." President Xi emphasized that the world is undergoing unprecedented changes, with the Global South emerging as a driving force behind the shift towards a multipolar world.
President Xi described the current global landscape as resembling "an intersection without traffic lights, where chaos and disorder are inevitable." He proposed five initiatives to enhance cooperation within the BRICS framework. The first initiative focuses on open-source intelligence, aiming to create a special zone for open-source intelligence in BRICS countries and support the development of large language models.
The second initiative seeks to facilitate trade and investment by establishing partnerships between special economic zones and creating a smart portal. The third initiative promotes cooperation in the digital industry through a cloud platform for BRICS countries to develop digital skills and conduct technical exchanges. The fourth initiative focuses on smart manufacturing, aiming to help BRICS countries build smart factories and establish standards and specifications.
President Xi's fifth initiative emphasizes the development of technological talent through the creation of an engineers' union for BRICS countries, joint training programs, and mutual recognition of competency standards. He also stressed that every country, regardless of size, is equal in the international community. The Global South must promote multilateralism and maintain the United Nations' role.
President Xi announced that China has implemented a zero-tariff policy on imports from 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. He emphasized that China will continue to expand its openness and share development opportunities with all countries. The 15th Five-Year Plan for China's development is not only a plan for China's growth but also a "list of cooperation for the world."
The BRICS summit brings together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss global issues and strengthen cooperation. The meeting aims to promote a more equitable and multipolar world order. President Xi's speech highlights China's commitment to cooperation and its vision for a more interconnected world.
The outcomes of the BRICS summit are expected to have significant implications for global governance and international relations. As the Global South continues to rise, its influence on global affairs is likely to grow. The initiatives proposed by President Xi Jinping are expected to enhance cooperation among BRICS countries and promote a more stable and prosperous world.
Key points
- China to implement zero-tariff policy on imports from 53 African countries.
- President Xi proposes five initiatives to enhance cooperation within BRICS.
- Global South emerging as a driving force behind multipolar world order.
