In anticipation of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, CGTN released an article exploring how enhanced BRICS collaboration is strengthening the Global South’s position and fostering changes in global governance.
BEIJING, July 07, 2025 — Leading up to the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Colombia and Uzbekistan were welcomed into the New Development Bank (NDB). This expansion highlights how an enlarged and inclusive BRICS platform is amplifying the voice of developing countries and contributing to the reshaping of global governance.
The growing attraction of BRICS is apparent. Vietnam’s recent acceptance as a BRICS partner country has further reinforced Greater BRICS cooperation. The BRICS group now encompasses major economies from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, representing nearly half of the world’s population and contributing over 50% of global growth.
A blueprint for South-South cooperation
President Xi Jinping has advocated for opening “a new chapter in the high-quality development of Greater BRICS cooperation,” positioning the bloc as both “a key avenue for Global South unity” and “a leader in global governance reform.”
Premier Li Qiang reiterated this sentiment in Rio. During the plenary session on “Peace and Security and Reform of Global Governance” at the 17th BRICS Summit, Li urged BRICS nations to maintain independence and self-reliance and to take greater responsibility in building consensus and synergy.
China is actively involved in shaping this agenda. According to Li, China will establish a China-BRICS research center on new quality productive forces this year. He also announced a scholarship program for BRICS countries to support talent development in sectors like industry and telecommunications.
China has been instrumental in shaping BRICS cooperation for a long time. It was the first country to propose the “BRICS Plus” model, which helped broaden BRICS outreach to other emerging economies, forming the basis for a broader network of Global South cooperation. President Xi also presented a strategic vision for building a BRICS committed to peace, innovation, green development, justice, and closer people-to-people exchanges.
These are not merely concepts. China has implemented tangible projects. As a proponent of peace, China assisted in launching the “Friends of Peace” initiative on the Ukraine crisis and advocated for ceasefires in the Middle East. As a development partner, it supported the establishment of the NDB and initiated cooperation centers on AI, sustainable industry, the digital economy, and special economic zones. As a cultural connector, China supports platforms like the BRICS Civilization Dialogue, Vocational Education Alliance, and Youth Forums.
A recent CGTN survey revealed that 90.4% of global respondents acknowledged China’s crucial role within the BRICS mechanism and anticipate China providing more experience and opportunities for emerging market countries and nations in the Global South to achieve modernization.
Reforming global governance
The rise of BRICS is stimulating real change. Approximately 91.2% of international respondents to a CGTN poll believe BRICS is playing a critical role in shaping a multipolar world and promoting inclusive, rules-based globalization.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva stated on Sunday that BRICS member countries now account for 40% of global GDP, with a growth rate of 4% in 2024, exceeding the global average. These figures indicate not only economic momentum but also a structural shift in global power.
The NDB, established in 2015, embodies this shift. NDB President Dilma Rousseff emphasized that the bank’s mission is to serve the Global South, stating, “One of our key differences is that all members are equal, and every voice is heard.” The bank has approved over 120 projects worth $40 billion, providing practical solutions in trade, infrastructure, and finance.
At the Rio summit, BRICS countries collectively expressed their vision for a more inclusive, balanced, and representative global governance system. They adopted the Rio de Janeiro Declaration, reaffirming their dedication to enhanced cooperation and reform of multilateral institutions.
Premier Li concluded his speech with a clear message: China is prepared to collaborate with other BRICS countries to advance global governance in a more just, equitable, efficient, and orderly manner, working together to build a better world.
CONTACT: Contact: CGTN, cgtn@cgtn.com
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