Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for BRICS to take a more active role in efforts to resolve the Middle East conflict, positioning the expanded bloc as an influential voice in global diplomacy.
Addressing a BRICS summit in New Delhi on Saturday, Xi said China was ready to work with other member states to promote peace, stressing that the conflict did not serve the interests of the international community.
Xi described BRICS as a leading group within the Global South and urged members to strengthen cooperation while promoting development and greater self-reliance among emerging economies.
The expanded BRICS grouping includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. Together, its members represent more than 40% of the world’s population and nearly a quarter of the global economy.
China is set to take over the BRICS chairmanship next year and host the 19th BRICS summit, giving Beijing an opportunity to shape the bloc’s diplomatic agenda.
Xi also held talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the summit, signalling continued efforts to improve relations between the two Asian powers.
The meeting comes after years of tensions between China and India, including a deadly 2020 border clash. While diplomatic ties have improved, disagreements over the disputed border and economic relations remain.
Xi said China viewed relations with India from a strategic and long-term perspective, while stressing the potential for both countries to learn from each other and pursue shared development.
The summit highlights BRICS’ growing ambition to play a larger role in international affairs as its members seek greater influence in addressing global conflicts and shaping the future of the international order.