China Calls for BRICS to Unite Global South at Historic Kazan Summit
The BRICS nations, now expanded to include ten members, are poised to become a driving force for solidarity among Global South countries. Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized this vision during the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia.
“We must work together to build BRICS into a primary channel for strengthening solidarity and cooperation among Global South nations and a vanguard for advancing global governance reform,” President Xi declared on Wednesday.
The summit marks a significant milestone as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) officially join the original five members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—expanding the group’s global influence. The enlargement, effective from January 1, 2024, brings BRICS to represent about 30 percent of the global GDP, nearly half of the world’s population, and one-fifth of global trade.
President Xi hailed the expansion as “a major milestone” in BRICS history and “a landmark event” in international relations. He noted that the decision to invite new nations demonstrates BRICS’ commitment to inclusivity and cooperation.
Guardians of Common Security
During the summit, President Xi urged BRICS members to act as “guardians of common security” and to foster peace on the global stage. He called for adherence to three principles concerning the Ukraine crisis: no expansion of the battlefield, no escalation of fighting, and no provocation by any party, advocating for de-escalation as soon as possible.
In September, China, Brazil, and other Global South countries launched the “Friends of Peace” platform during the 79th United Nations General Assembly, aiming to amplify voices advocating for peace in the Ukraine crisis. BRICS and Global South nations share a common stance promoting peace, reconciliation, dialogue, and solidarity.
President Xi also addressed the humanitarian situation in Gaza and conflicts in Lebanon, urging an immediate ceasefire, an end to violence, and persistent efforts towards a comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution to the Palestinian question.
In November 2023, BRICS held an extraordinary joint summit on the Gaza situation with leaders of invited members, marking a first for the group. This meeting, held three months after the expansion decision, coordinated member positions and actions regarding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict that erupted on October 7, 2023.
President Xi described the meeting as “a good start” for enhanced BRICS cooperation following its enlargement, signaling the group’s growing role in addressing global challenges.
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China calls for BRICS to become channel for Global South solidarity
cgtn.com
