In a call for enhanced collaboration among emerging economies, Chinese President Xi Jinping has laid out a series of initiatives during the BRICS 2026 Summit. Speaking on the second day of the event, Xi emphasized the importance of Global South nations working together, proposing five specific areas of focus to bolster ties between these countries.
President Xi advocated for a more inclusive approach to global governance, insisting that international rules should be shaped collectively by all nations. He urged BRICS members to adhere to principles such as international law, sovereign equality, non-interference, and peaceful resolution of conflicts. Rejecting the notion that might equates to right, Xi called for fair application of global rules, free from double standards.
The initiatives proposed by China target key sectors such as artificial intelligence, trade and investment, the digital economy, intelligent manufacturing, and the cultivation of science and technology talent. A significant proposal includes the establishment of a BRICS AI open-source community aimed at fostering cooperation on large language models and nurturing a comprehensive AI ecosystem. Additionally, China suggested a trade and investment facilitation initiative, featuring a partnership for BRICS special economic zones and the creation of a new BRICS Forum on Trade in Services.
Digital cooperation is another focal point, with plans for a BRICS digital ecosystem cloud platform, complemented by digital skills training and technology exchanges. In the realm of intelligent manufacturing, China is committed to supporting the development of smart factories and establishing common standards to modernize the manufacturing sector.
The fifth initiative centers on nurturing talent in science and technology. It includes the formation of a BRICS engineer cultivation alliance and the launch of youth exchange programs aimed at fostering innovation and developing a skilled workforce. Through these comprehensive strategies, China aims to strengthen economic and technological ties among BRICS countries, enhancing their collective influence on the global stage.