The 2026 BRICS Summit, held in New Delhi from Saturday to Sunday, brought together leaders of major emerging economies to promote inclusive global governance, strengthen multilateralism, and foster sustainable global economic growth. The summit marked the 20th anniversary of BRICS cooperation, a milestone that underscores two decades of self-reliance and self-strengthening among emerging markets and developing countries.
In his address to Session I of the 18th BRICS Summit on Saturday, Chinese President Xi Jinping noted that over the past 20 years, BRICS countries have actively explored development paths suited to their own national conditions, setting an example of unity among emerging markets and developing countries. This approach, rooted in mutual respect and shared goals, has become a cornerstone of the group's enduring relevance.
On the sidelines of the summit, the People's Daily released a video titled Through Xi's Eyes: Finding the answer to the 'warmth of BRICS', featuring the warmth of multilateral cooperation and how China's development philosophy resonates across the Global South. The video captures voices from key figures who emphasize the practical benefits of BRICS collaboration.
Busi Mabuza, South African chairperson of the BRICS Business Council, emphasized that emerging nations share a common bond: "Because most of the Global South countries are recently emerging from developing nation status, they understand the importance of not leaving anybody behind." She added that BRICS "has opened up relationships in markets that are not just large, but that believe in multilateralism, that believe in supporting BRICS partners through sharing of technology, through sharing of skills."
R. Deepak, professor of Chinese studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, who brought stacks of President Xi's works back from China, observed that Xi's early years laid the foundation for his people-centered approach and poverty alleviation strategies. Such grassroots governance, Deepak noted, deeply resonates with nations of the Global South that share similar developmental journeys and strive to build a better life for their people.
As the video reflects, for people across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, development is not an abstract concept but concrete improvements, from a paved road to a new job. As nations come together for this common goal, the paths to development and modernization open up to more possibilities.
The implications of this summit and the resonance of China's development philosophy are significant. They signal a shift in global governance, where emerging economies are increasingly shaping the narrative and priorities of international cooperation. By championing inclusive growth and multilateralism, BRICS is positioning itself as a counterbalance to traditional power structures, offering a model that prioritizes shared prosperity and leaves no one behind. This approach not only strengthens ties among member states but also provides a compelling alternative for other developing nations seeking sustainable and equitable development pathways.
