Xi urges BRICS to pioneer innovation, peace and global governance reform

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on BRICS countries to deepen cooperation on artificial intelligence, defend multilateralism and play a stronger role in promoting global peace and reforming international governance.

Addressing the first session of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on Saturday, Xi said the grouping must “stand firmly on the right side of history” as geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and challenges to the international order intensify.

The Chinese leader noted that 2026 marks 20 years of BRICS cooperation, describing the bloc as an increasingly influential platform for emerging markets and developing countries.

Xi said BRICS has expanded its cooperation in trade, investment, finance and technology while strengthening the collective voice of the Global South.

He outlined four areas in which he believes BRICS should take a pioneering role: innovation-driven development, peace and stability, exchanges between civilizations, and reform of global governance.

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On technology, Xi called for greater cooperation in artificial intelligence, including research, applications and industrial and supply chains. He also proposed a BRICS initiative on AI-empowered new industrialization, arguing that technological cooperation should remain open and inclusive.

Xi also warned against economic decoupling, protectionism and attempts to restrict global supply chains.

Turning to international security, the Chinese President urged BRICS members to oppose bloc confrontation and interference in countries’ internal affairs while contributing to political solutions to global conflicts.

On the Middle East, Xi renewed calls for de-escalation and a permanent, comprehensive ceasefire, while reiterating China’s support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

He also called for stronger cultural, educational, tourism and youth exchanges among BRICS countries.

On global governance, Xi said BRICS should support the authority of the United Nations and the multilateral trading system centred on the World Trade Organization, while advocating greater representation for developing countries.

China will assume the BRICS chairship in 2027 and host the 19th BRICS Summit.

Xi said Beijing intends to use its chairship to build consensus and help usher BRICS into what he described as its “third golden decade” of cooperation.