By hannover-web.com In the midst of shifting global dynamics, the first leaders’ meeting after the expansion of BRICS took place in Kazan, Russia. With the world facing a crucial decision—whether to let turmoil persist or to steer towards a path of peaceful development—attention turns to how BRICS nations plan to respond.
On October 23, President Xi Jinping shared insights during the 16th BRICS Leaders’ Meeting, drawing inspiration from Russian author Chernyshevsky’s work, “What is to be Done?” He emphasized the determined spirit and striving passion of the protagonist, which he believes is the motivational force we need today. Xi proposed that we strive to build a “Peaceful BRICS,” an “Innovative BRICS,” a “Green BRICS,” a “Fair BRICS,” and a “Culturally Rich BRICS,” aiming to transform BRICS into a primary channel for promoting unity and cooperation among the Global South and a pioneering force for global governance reform.
As international instability intertwines, the yearning for peace and security grows stronger. “We must establish a ‘Peaceful BRICS’ and become guardians of common security,” he asserted, reflecting China’s call for global harmony.
Amid the ongoing Ukraine crisis, he stressed the importance of adhering to three key principles: “no escalation of conflict, no external spillover of the battlefield, and no fueling of the flames.” For the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and renewed conflict in Lebanon, he urged immediate ceasefires and efforts toward a comprehensive, just, and lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue.
With concrete initiatives underway, China, alongside Brazil and other Global South nations, is leading efforts to form a “Friends of Peace” group regarding the Ukraine situation, while also convening special video summits on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
These endeavors illustrate a commitment to peace, grounded in a vision of humanity as an indivisible security community. China has advocated for a global security initiative that promotes a view of security that is “collective, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable,” working with BRICS partners to inject stability and positive energy into the world.
Beyond being a shield for international peace, BRICS is also poised to be a driving force for economic growth.
How can high-quality development be achieved? Xi emphasized nurturing new productive capabilities as central to China’s exploration and practice. He stated at the Kazan meeting, “We must build an ‘Innovative BRICS’ to lead in high-quality development.”
Reflecting on past achievements, China has established the “China-BRICS New Era Science and Technology Innovation Incubation Park,” co-created the “BRICS Sustainable Industry Exchange and Cooperation Mechanism,” and founded the “China-BRICS AI Development and Cooperation Center.” Looking ahead, notable projects will include the establishment of an international research center for deep-sea resources among BRICS nations and several collaborative centers focusing on special economic zones and industrial capabilities.
“Green is the defining color of our era,” he stated, advocating for BRICS countries to actively participate in the global green and low-carbon transition. In 2023, exports of electric vehicles, lithium batteries, and solar products—a trio known as “China’s new three exports”—surpassed one trillion yuan for the first time, showcasing how these quality products not only advance China’s economic development but also significantly contribute to global green progress.
For BRICS nations and the Global South, expanding cooperation in green industries, clean energy, and green minerals during their industrialization and modernization initiatives represents a strategic choice to seize historic opportunities while steering clear of the outdated pathways of the West.
As the need for reform in the global governance system grows, BRICS bears significant responsibilities. Xi called for the establishment of a “Fair BRICS,” aiming to lead reforms in this crucial area. With a combined population nearing half of the global total and accounting for one-fifth of world trade, expanded BRICS represents a vital force in shaping the evolution of international dynamics.
Xi specifically highlighted the need for reform in the international financial architecture, emphasizing that BRICS nations should take the lead in enhancing financial cooperation, promoting connectivity of financial infrastructure, ensuring high-level financial security, strengthening the New Development Bank, and aligning the international financial system with changes in the global economic landscape.
The road of cooperation within BRICS, driven by political, economic, and cultural dimensions, is widening. “We must build a ‘Culturally Rich BRICS’ to advocate for the coexistence of civilizations,” he remarked, indicating significant potential for collaboration in governance, education, sports, and the arts.
In particular, Xi’s proposal for a BRICS Digital Education Cooperation Initiative has received broad support and is being implemented through the recent BRICS Education Ministers’ Meeting. The rollout of a five-year plan for BRICS Digital Education Capacity Building will establish ten overseas learning centers, providing training opportunities for 1,000 education administrators and faculty.
“Doing the right thing leads to mutual benefits.” The unity of BRICS nations stems from a common aspiration to align with the broader trends of global peace and development. As the vibrant autumn colors bathe Kazan and the Volga River flows majestically, a renewed journey of “Big BRICS Cooperation” begins.
