By love-89.com During a recent discussion about the outcomes of the BRICS Leaders’ Summit, Xu Feibiao, a researcher at the China Institute of Modern International Relations and director of the BRICS and G20 Center, remarked, “The pace of BRICS cooperation is accelerating, and its prospects are promising. Many countries are eager to join BRICS and ride the wave of development.” Alexey Malinin, founder of the International Interaction and Cooperation Center and a member of the “Digoria Expert Club” think tank, highlighted that the BRICS cooperation mechanism is gaining traction and increasingly offers an alternative to many countries in the Global South.
The 16th BRICS Summit is set to take place in Kazan, Russia, from October 22 to 24, 2024, marking the first summit since the expansion of BRICS. This raises questions about the unique role of the BRICS cooperation mechanism on the international stage today and its widespread appeal. As a founding member and a vital advocate for deepening BRICS collaboration, how is China guiding and supporting BRICS’ steady development? Additionally, what role does the BRICS mechanism play in enhancing cooperation among Global South nations?
In an interview with “East-West Dialogue,” Xu Feibiao and Alexey Malinin provide in-depth insight into these topics.
**How is BRICS embracing opportunities amidst widespread appeal?**
Malinin emphasized the significant role of the BRICS cooperation mechanism in contemporary geopolitical and economic trends. Over the years, collaboration among BRICS countries has progressed substantially, driven by political security, economic finance, and cultural exchanges. The influence and weight of BRICS continue to grow, showcasing its relevance on the global stage.
According to data from the World Bank, the GDP share of BRICS countries has risen from 18% to approximately 26% between 2010 and 2022. By the end of 2023, the New Development Bank of BRICS had approved 105 projects with a total investment of $35 billion. Following the outbreak of a new round of conflict between Israel and Palestine in 2023, South Africa convened an emergency video summit of BRICS leaders, demonstrating the bloc’s responsiveness to critical global issues.
Beyond these tangible achievements, Malinin noted that the BRICS cooperation mechanism has illuminated “another choice” for an increasing number of countries in the Global South.
“The BRICS mechanism is not a substitute for NATO or the EU. It offers a different perspective on viewing the world and building partnerships,” Malinin said. “BRICS advocates for collaboration based on equality. While promoting its own interests, the mechanism also considers the interests of other nations.”
As 2024 marks a significant year for the expanded BRICS, there are numerous opportunities ahead.
“The most apparent opportunity is the benefit of scale. As BRICS expands, its voice and influence will grow correspondingly,” Xu Feibiao explained. “New members bring fresh resources, energy, markets, and new ideas to the BRICS cooperation mechanism.” He added, “An increase in membership and resources means we can accomplish more together.”
Xu also pointed out that BRICS encompasses key regions of developing countries, which enhances its capacity to address regional governance challenges.
**China’s Role in Driving and Leading BRICS Cooperation**
“China is the driving force behind BRICS cooperation, the leader of the BRICS vision, and a supporter of BRICS development,” Xu stated.
As a founding member and steadfast supporter of the BRICS cooperation mechanism, China has consistently contributed to deepening BRICS collaboration.
“Behind each transformation in the BRICS mechanism, China has been a primary advocate, a crucial engine for its development,” Xu said.
He noted that China has established a comprehensive narrative for global governance focused on a community with a shared future, supported by three major initiatives. Ideas such as mutual consultation, collaboration, and shared benefits, as well as crafting a cooperative and win-win international relationship, have already become integral outcomes of BRICS.
China actively proposes topics and cooperation plans within BRICS, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence and the new industrial revolution. From funding to technology and development opportunities, China’s contributions are pivotal for creating avenues for development among all members.
Experts agree that while China plays a vital role in BRICS, the member nations are also crucial partners. Xu emphasized the importance of technological cooperation, green initiatives, and addressing global issues—the foundations for strong partnerships. Malinin added that such collaborations are rooted in mutual benefit, generating significant appeal for all parties involved.
**The Global South Seizing Opportunities with BRICS**
“Many developing countries view the BRICS cooperation platform as their own. There aren’t many platforms globally that have such substantive influence,” Xu remarked.
Regarding the appeal of the BRICS cooperation mechanism for the Global South, Malinin pointed to its foundational principle of equality, which is essential for its allure. One of its key principles is the collective desire for mutually beneficial cooperation, which fosters an environment where no single country can impose its will, resulting in widespread acceptance of its rules and vision.
Xu and Malinin also noted that the BRICS cooperation mechanism presents abundant development opportunities for Global South nations.
“BRICS countries encompass some of the world’s most promising markets, rich in energy, food, and minerals, while rapidly advancing in technology. This region is progressing swiftly, providing over half of global economic growth. Many nations aspire to join BRICS and capitalize on its growth prospects,” Xu stated.
Malinin remarked that “the BRICS cooperation mechanism does not impose a specific ideology on other countries. While nations desire a multipolar world, this aspiration is related to development rather than ideology; cooperation within this framework is mutually beneficial.”
Moreover, Xu emphasized that the voices of developing countries are often overlooked in existing international frameworks, craving a platform for representation. Through “Big BRICS Cooperation,” developing countries can enhance their visibility on the global stage.
He concluded that the Global South’s voice is diverse and somewhat scattered, and the BRICS cooperation mechanism is increasingly becoming a vital platform for bolstering solidarity, cooperation, and the collective interests of the Global South. This evolution paves the way for more equitable and just global governance and international order.