On September 8, the BRICS countries held an online summit, where Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote address. Xi highlighted rising trends of hegemony, unilateralism, and protectionism, noting that some nations repeatedly initiate trade and tariff wars, causing severe damage to the global economy and undermining international trade rules. At such a critical time, he urged BRICS nations and countries of the Global South to uphold openness, tolerance, and the BRICS spirit, collectively defending multilateralism and a rules-based trade system.
To this end, Xi put forward three key proposals:
1. Uphold Multilateralism and International Fairness – Xi called for the promotion of global governance initiatives, aimed at building a more just and rational international system. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a UN-centered international order and respecting international law.
2. Follow the Principles of Openness and Mutual Benefit – Xi stressed the need to protect the multilateral trading system centered on the World Trade Organization and oppose all forms of protectionism, while safeguarding the international financial order.
3. Promote Unity and Cooperation – China intends to work closely with other BRICS countries to implement global development initiatives and construct high-quality Belt and Road projects. Xi encouraged greater collaboration across economic, trade, and scientific sectors to achieve shared successes.
Source: Xueyi-Touhid-Jinia, China Media Group