As one of the founding members of BRICS and an essential part of the “Global South” community, China has consistently remained committed to supporting the Global South and encouraging more nations in this group to join the BRICS initiative.
During the “BRICS+” Leaders Dialogue held on October 24 in Kazan, Russia, President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of collective wisdom and strength within the Global South, underscoring the need for unity and cooperation among developing countries. In his speech, he articulated China’s proposals aimed at boosting confidence and momentum for revitalizing the Global South.
The term “Global South” encompasses emerging market economies and developing nations. Its rise signifies a significant shift in the global landscape, as countries from the Global South now account for over 40% of the world’s economy, fundamentally altering economic dynamics and emerging as a crucial force in shaping international relations. The journey of Global South nations towards modernization represents a historic milestone and unprecedented accomplishment in human civilization. In the face of rapid global changes, it is essential for the Global South to adopt a more open and inclusive approach, playing a vital role in upholding international fairness and justice while promoting global peace and development.
However, the path toward revitalizing the Global South is fraught with challenges. BRICS nations must seize historical opportunities and demonstrate proactive leadership, adhering to the principles of openness, inclusivity, and win-win cooperation to foster a peaceful development framework. President Xi highlighted three key propositions: “Upholding peace for common security,” “Reviving development for shared prosperity,” and “Promoting civilization for diverse harmony.” These points aim to enhance BRICS’s role as a leader within the Global South.
The BRICS nations are tasked with maintaining peace, strengthening global security governance, and exploring comprehensive solutions to pressing issues. They should also act as a core force for joint development, actively participating in and guiding reforms in the global economic governance system while ensuring development remains central in international trade agendas. Furthermore, BRICS should promote cross-cultural dialogue and support each nation in following its unique modernization path. These proposals align with China’s global security, development, and civilization initiatives, addressing the Global South’s urgent needs for peace, development, and cooperation.
China, as a founding member of BRICS, has taken concrete actions to support the revitalization of the Global South. In recent years, it has facilitated the establishment of the New Development Bank, advocated for the “BRICS+” cooperation model, and launched various key initiatives to infuse new energy into BRICS collaboration. The country has introduced a cooperative initiative for the Global South, recently announcing eight measures to enhance collaboration, offering development assistance to over 160 countries, and working with more than 150 nations and over 30 international organizations on the Belt and Road Initiative. Furthermore, China has mobilized nearly $20 billion in development funding for more than 1,100 projects in partnership with over 100 countries and various international organizations. It has also established the BRICS Vocational Education Alliance and plans to lead the formation of a Global South Think Tank Cooperation Alliance, promoting cultural exchange and sharing governance experiences among nations.
Regardless of shifts in the international landscape, China’s commitment to the Global South remains steadfast. The country will continue to collaborate with other nations in the Global South to voice peace, pursue development, solidify cooperative foundations, and foster high-quality development of BRICS. Together, they will write a new chapter in the unity and cooperation of the Global South.