BRICS countries have reached a joint declaration ahead of their leaders’ summit in Rio de Janeiro, showing unity despite the group’s growing diversity and complex geopolitical differences. Diplomats confirmed the agreement on Saturday, marking a breakthrough after April’s foreign ministers failed to align on sensitive global issues. This consensus reinforces BRICS’ commitment to cooperation as the bloc seeks to represent the Global South.
The summit begins Sunday, gathering leaders from Brazil, India, South Africa, and several newly added members including Egypt, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates. China will be represented by its prime minister, while Russia’s Vladimir Putin will join virtually due to an ICC arrest warrant. Notably, this marks Indonesia’s first BRICS summit appearance as a full member.
Despite increasing membership and diplomatic clout, the bloc faced challenges aligning views on key issues such as the Gaza war, Israel-Iran conflict, and United Nations Security Council reform. To resolve disagreements over Africa’s representation, BRICS endorsed seats for Brazil and India while leaving Africa’s seat undecided. They also agreed to use stronger language on Middle East conflicts compared to April’s softer statements.
On economic issues, the BRICS members maintained criticism of U.S. protectionist trade policies under President Donald Trump. They reaffirmed opposition to “unjustified unilateral measures,” especially tariffs that hurt developing economies. Leaders emphasized the need to defend multilateral trade systems and called for reforming global financial institutions like the IMF.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the bloc, now representing over half the world’s population and 40% of global output, must lead efforts to reform outdated global structures. He urged emerging nations to take climate change and trade reform seriously, particularly as Brazil also prepares to host the upcoming UN climate summit.
While the expansion of BRICS has boosted its global influence, it also brings complexity. With over 30 countries expressing interest in joining or partnering with the group, leaders face growing pressure to balance regional rivalries and diverse interests. Still, the Rio summit aims to strengthen BRICS’ position as a powerful voice for the developing world.