Background and Relevance of BRICS
The BRICS group, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, will convene in Rio de Janeiro for a summit from Saturday to Monday. This group of five full members, representing nearly half of the world’s population and approximately 40% of global GDP, aims to address pressing international issues. The summit will focus on several key topics, including trade tensions and global conflicts.
Trade Concerns: Unilateral Tariffs
The BRICS leaders will express “serious concern” over the rise of unilateral tariffs and non-tariff barriers that distort trade and are inconsistent with World Trade Organization rules, according to a draft text agreed upon by negotiators on Saturday. Although the document does not directly mention President Donald Trump, it comes as the U.S. president prepares to notify trading partners about upcoming tariffs.
BRICS’ Stance on Global Conflicts
The BRICS negotiators reached a consensus on the escalating conflict in the Middle East, which had been dividing delegations. Iran, a BRICS associate since 2023, sought a tougher stance from the group on the regional conflict. However, the final declaration will maintain the same message as a June communique expressing “grave concern” over Israeli and U.S. bombings in Iran.
Key Players and Their Absences
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, an event host, will navigate notable absences from Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who faces an international arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in Ukraine and will participate via videoconference.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main topic of concern for BRICS leaders? The leaders will express serious concern over unilateral tariffs and non-tariff barriers that distort global trade.
- Who are the key players in the BRICS group? The BRICS group consists of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
- What is the stance of BRICS on global conflicts, specifically in the Middle East? The group maintains a cautious tone regarding the U.S., as seen in their response to Israeli and U.S. bombings in Iran.
- Who are some notable absentees from the Rio summit? Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the summit in person.
Additional Summit Topics
Beyond the main topics, the BRICS will issue declarations on climate change, artificial intelligence, and healthcare cooperation. The summit’s security will be bolstered by over 20,000 Brazilian military personnel, using fighter jets to patrol the skies – a measure not seen since the 2016 Rio Olympics.
