The 16th BRICS Summit was held from October 22-24, 2024, in Kazan, Russia. It served as a crucial development in the current political, economic and geostrategic dynamics, i.e. the Russia-Ukraine war. Amongst many members - including the newly unveiled ones, China was particularly instrumental in vouching for increased multilateral cooperation across the Global South. Chinese President Xi Jinping advocated for greater harmony, collaboration, and mutual development amongst the BRICS Plus countries.
In light of the civilisational importance of the Global South, President Xi urged the BRICS Plus to collectively march towards socioeconomic and civilisational progress – an ode to their monumental rise in history. However, he did not shy away from acknowledging barriers to security and peace facing the Global South. Hence, it becomes imperative for the BRICS Plus members to forge a collective alliance as well as fostering mutual dependence and strength. Through this initiative, they may rival the Global North on an equal footing, shifting the dynamics of present-day global politics. The Chinese president furthered his stance by shedding light on cultivating common security measures and striving for the stabilisation of peace, consequently eradicating points of contention that pose threats to their development.
In essence, President Xi’s speech serves not only as a rhetorical suggestion but also as a strong invite for the Global South to collectively amplify their voices in the global arena. By using the BRICS Plus countries as outposts, China can become the steward of the Global South – directly challenging the US’ hegemonic influence across the world. It is clear that the West is prominently dominated by US policies. Hence, China, the second largest economy in the world, would naturally look for a sphere of influence, as - if not more - powerful than the USA, particularly in its native Indo-Pacific region.
Nonetheless, several challenges curtail Xi’s advancements. Most countries that comprise the Global South, particularly Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia, have intricate internal circumstances which hinder their rise to progress. Becoming the steward of such nations also means getting involved in their domestic predicaments. The question then arises – can China afford such interference?
Pakistan, which has applied for BRICS Plus membership, can play an important role, being a key country from South Asia with a sizable market
Following the Cold War, China remained on the outskirts of global conflicts – expressing only enough to display concern for international appeal. Its non-involvement stemmed from its business-minded approach, with economic development being the focal point of Chinese politics. However, on October 23, 2024, Xi Jinping expressed a desire to reinvigorate progress in the Global South. To this end, Xi highlighted the successful response to his proposed “Global Security Initiative”, claiming they have made progress in stabilising the region. In partnership with Brazil, China announced a six-point consensus along with launching the “Friends for Peace” initiative, addressing the Ukrainian crisis in tandem with other countries from the Global South.
Moreover, presenting China as a peacemaker has various implications. First, it illustrates China’s ambition of becoming a leading figure in resolving international conflicts. Second, it places the country in a humanitarian light – a powerful nation looking out for its less-powerful allies. Contrary to China’s reputation during the tenures of previous presidents, Xi Jinping has persistently stressed multilateral engagement. He justified his claims by laying forth the Global Development Initiative (GDI), through which the BRICS Plus countries can access resources and funding, with over $20 million being reserved for development. While these projects hold considerable weight and propose a productive future of cooperation, development, and security, they still require sturdy institutions, labour, and mutual willingness to ensure equitable distribution of resources.
In addition, BRICS Plus has become the most convenient platform for leading half the world and registering its agency vis-à-vis the US domination of world politics, if not the economy. China and its partners from the BRICS Plus, however, must understand that harmony between the Global South requires sustained collaboration amongst member countries. Given the frequency of geopolitical conflicts in the current world order, cohesion and convergence between states marked by internal divisions, underdevelopment, and conflict seems idealistic.
Finally, President Xi’s address in Russia serves as both hope and a challenge for nations comprising the Global South. Although idealistic, his vision of a path forward presents a more balanced world. If leveraged by BRICs Plus countries effectively, they might be able to redefine global political dynamics. Pakistan, which has applied for BRICS Plus membership, can play an important role, being a key country from South Asia with a sizable market. However, we need to put our house in order in terms of political stability and societal harmony.