China has firmly pushed back against narratives predicting the decline of the BRICS bloc, calling for the group to operate as an “efficient and pragmatic” entity. This stance comes as Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled for a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking his first visit to India in nearly seven years.
The Enduring Value of BRICS Cooperation
An opinion piece published in China’s state media, the Global Times, asserted that despite continuous forecasts of its demise, the BRICS mechanism continues to expand. The publication emphasized BRICS's role as a significant force driving a more multipolar world and advocating for greater democracy in international relations—an achievement it notes has not come easily.
The article highlighted that over the past two decades, the international landscape has undergone profound transformations. Even with voices frequently predicting BRICS's decline or attempting to sow division, the bloc's sustained growth and vibrant cooperation are attributed to its core commitments: openness, inclusiveness, the pursuit of win-win cooperation, and a dedication to fairness and justice.
China's Vision for a Greater BRICS
The piece reiterated proposals made by Chinese President Xi Jinping during the virtual BRICS Summit in September 2025. These proposals underscored the importance of upholding multilateralism, embracing openness, and strengthening solidarity among member nations. Such principles, according to the Chinese perspective, are crucial for injecting strong impetus into the high-quality development of broader BRICS cooperation.
As the world experiences increasing turbulence and transformation, the unique value of BRICS cooperation becomes more pronounced. There is growing confidence in the immense potential of the bloc, especially as countries across the Global South actively seek closer ties with BRICS. This rising “BRICS fever” reflects a collective aspiration among these nations for equitable development rights and a more just and fair global order.
A “Greater BRICS” is envisioned to unlock new avenues for common development within the Global South, providing enhanced certainty and positive energy in an otherwise unpredictable world. China is set to assume the rotating presidency of BRICS in 2027, signaling its continued commitment to the bloc's future trajectory.