Leaders of the BRICS bloc gathered in Rio de Janeiro this week for their first summit since expanding to 11 full members, signaling a renewed push for multilateral cooperation in an era of escalating geopolitical rivalries. Representatives from ten partner nations joined the discussions, underscoring the group’s growing influence in shaping global economic and political frameworks.
The two-day meeting, which concluded Tuesday, emphasized strengthening international governance structures and fostering sustainable development. A joint statement released during the summit highlighted shared priorities, including reforming global financial institutions and addressing climate-related economic risks. “This summit reaffirms our commitment to a multipolar world order rooted in dialogue, not division,” said one delegate during closed-door negotiations.
Analysts note the expanded BRICS – now representing over 40% of the world’s population – could reshape trade dynamics and investment flows across Asia and beyond. The bloc’s focus on local currency settlements and digital infrastructure partnerships has drawn particular attention from markets.
Rio-based correspondent Lucrecia Franco reported that security and artificial intelligence governance emerged as unexpected focal points, with members agreeing to establish working groups on emerging technologies. The outcomes are expected to influence discussions at upcoming G20 and UN General Assembly meetings.
