The 2026 BRICS Summit, held in New Delhi from Saturday to Sunday, brought together leaders of major emerging economies to promote inclusive global governance, strengthen multilateralism, and foster sustainable global economic growth. A key theme that emerged was the resonance of China’s development philosophy across the Global South, particularly as BRICS cooperation marks its 20th anniversary this year.
In his address to Session I of the 18th BRICS Summit on Saturday, Chinese President Xi Jinping noted that the past two decades have been a period of self-reliance and self-strengthening for BRICS countries. He emphasized that member nations have actively explored development paths suited to their own national conditions, setting an example of unity among emerging markets and developing countries. Xi’s remarks underscored the bloc’s commitment to mutual support and shared progress.
On the sidelines of the summit, the People’s Daily released a video titled “Through Xi’s Eyes: Finding the answer to the ‘warmth of BRICS,'” which featured the warmth of multilateral cooperation and how China’s development philosophy resonates across the Global South. The video included perspectives from key figures who highlighted the common bonds among emerging nations.
Busi Mabuza, South African chairperson of the BRICS Business Council, emphasized that most Global South countries have recently emerged from developing nation status and thus understand the importance of not leaving anybody behind. She noted that BRICS has opened up relationships in markets that are not just large, but that believe in multilateralism and in supporting partners through the sharing of technology and skills. Her comments reflect the bloc’s role in fostering inclusive economic partnerships.
R. Deepak, a professor of Chinese studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University who brought stacks of President Xi’s works back from China, observed that Xi’s early years laid the foundation for his people-centered approach and poverty alleviation strategies. Such grassroots governance, Deepak noted, deeply resonates with nations of the Global South that share similar developmental journeys and strive to build a better life for their people. This alignment of values and experiences strengthens the foundation for cooperation.
As the video reflects, for people across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, development is not an abstract concept but concrete improvements, from a paved road to a new job. As nations come together for this common goal, the paths to development and modernization open up to more possibilities. The summit highlighted how China’s approach, focused on people-centered growth and multilateral cooperation, offers a model that many Global South countries find relevant to their own aspirations.
The 2026 BRICS Summit thus served as a platform to reaffirm the importance of solidarity and shared development goals. With the 20th anniversary of BRICS cooperation as a backdrop, the event showcased how emerging economies are working together to shape a more inclusive global order. For more information on the summit and related content, visit Media OutReach.
