New Delhi, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : The 18th BRICS summit took place on September 12 and 13 in New Delhi, marking the 20th anniversary of the BRICS cooperation framework. This year’s gathering emphasized the aspirations of the Global South for fairness, justice, and inclusive development. It also explored how major emerging economies can bring certainty to a tumultuous world through unity and collaboration.
BRICS has expanded from four founding members to 11 official members and 10 partner countries. This shift reflects the changing dynamics of global cooperation. Together, BRICS nations account for nearly half of the world’s population, contributing around 30% of global economic output and one-fifth of total trade volume. The International Monetary Fund predicts that by 2028, the economic growth rate of the “Greater BRICS” will be three times that of the G7.
The foundation of BRICS cooperation is built on tangible results. In 2026, the BRICS Forum initiated a network of partner cities, expanding collaboration from the national level to urban areas. By the first quarter of this year, the New Development Bank had approved 140 investment projects totaling $42.9 billion, positioning itself as a crucial financing tool for the Global South.
China and India play pivotal roles in BRICS. This year and next, they will take turns holding the presidency. Enhanced coordination between these two nations is seen as beneficial for increasing cooperation within the Greater BRICS. In recent years, the improvement of China-India relations has emerged as a significant positive factor in the geopolitical landscape of the Global South. Leaders from both countries have established a strategic consensus that they are partners rather than rivals, viewing each other’s development as an opportunity rather than a threat. This understanding provides a vital guarantee for the healthy and sustainable development of bilateral relations.
In 2025, trade between China and India reached $155.6 billion. The two countries resumed five direct flights and reinstated border trade after six years. On security matters, the 25th meeting of special representatives on the China-India border dispute resulted in an eight-point agreement, reiterating their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in border areas to foster a conducive environment for bilateral relations.
However, the path to unity and development for the Global South is fraught with challenges. Internal development disparities are widening, dependence on foreign technology persists, and anti-globalization sentiments and unilateralism remain influential. While the expansion of BRICS has increased its representation, reaching a consensus has become more challenging. The unique aspect of the BRICS framework is that it does not require members to work together on all issues. Instead, it provides a platform for achieving “strategic autonomy without strategic isolation.” This open and tolerant characteristic allows India to maintain a strategic partnership with the U.S. while Saudi Arabia and the UAE engage in deep economic ties with Western nations.
BRICS aims not to dismantle the existing international order but to create parallel mechanisms that enhance institutional space for emerging economic powers.
The trust in BRICS cooperation and the development of the Global South stems not from avoiding differences but from a clear understanding of common interests and the expansion of practical collaboration. Improvements in border issues, trade, and relations between China and India stand as the greatest evidence of unity within the Global South.
(Contributed by China Media Group, Beijing)
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