China’s Vision for BRICS: Expansion and a Just International Order

In a world where geopolitical dynamics are constantly shifting, Chinese President Xi Jinping has made a clarion call for the expansion of the BRICS alliance, emphasizing the need for a more just and equitable international order. The president’s remarks come at a time when the global community is witnessing unprecedented changes, and the role of emerging economies in shaping the future cannot be understated.

BRICS: A Force for Global Equilibrium

During the BRICS summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Xi, through a speech delivered on his behalf, firmly stated that “hegemonism is not in China’s DNA”.

He highlighted China’s reluctance to indulge in great power competition or to foster “bloc confrontation”.

• Xi’s vision is clear: China stands resolutely on the side of history, advocating for causes that promote the common good.

Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, representing Xi at the business forum, reiterated China’s commitment to the growth of BRICS, irrespective of any resistance. Xi’s absence from the event, which saw participation from leaders like South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, raised eyebrows, but the message from China was unambiguous.

Expansion and the Future of BRICS

Both China and Russia, having faced significant sanctions from the United States, are eager to broaden the BRICS coalition.

• This move is perceived as a countermeasure to Western dominance in international institutions and global affairs.
• Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Iran, Argentina, and Egypt have shown interest in joining this influential bloc, which currently encompasses Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
• Together, these nations represent approximately 40% of the global population and contribute to over 25% of the world’s economy.

However, the path to expansion isn’t devoid of challenges. While China and Russia are keen on enlarging the group, nations like Brazil and India seem more ambivalent about the idea.

Diverse Visions Within BRICS

Highlighting the diverse perspectives within the alliance, Brazil’s Lula mentioned that BRICS doesn’t aim to counter the G7, G20, or the United States.

• “We just want to organise ourselves,” Lula expressed during a social media broadcast.

One of the summit’s pivotal discussions revolves around promoting the use of local currencies in trade and financial transactions, reducing dependency on the US dollar. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the “irreversible” momentum of de-dollarization within the bloc.

As the world stands at a critical juncture, the role of BRICS in shaping the future becomes even more significant. The alliance’s potential expansion and its vision for a balanced global order will undoubtedly influence international relations in the coming years.

What are your thoughts on the expansion of BRICS? Do you believe it can play a pivotal role in ensuring a more balanced global order?

Share your views in the comments below.