The 2026 BRICS Summit in New Delhi concluded on Sunday, marking two decades of cooperation among major emerging economies. The summit aimed to promote inclusive global governance, strengthen multilateralism, and foster sustainable economic growth.
Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed the session, noting that BRICS countries have actively explored development paths suited to their national conditions, setting an example of self-reliance and unity among emerging markets and developing countries.
On the sidelines, the People's Daily released a video titled "Through Xi's Eyes: Finding the answer to the 'warmth of BRICS,'" which highlighted how China's development philosophy resonates across the Global South. The video featured Busi Mabuza, South African chairperson of the BRICS Business Council, who stressed that emerging nations share a common bond: "Because most of the Global South countries are recently emerging from developing nation status, they understand the importance of not leaving anybody behind."
Mabuza further noted that BRICS has opened up relationships in markets that believe in multilateralism and in supporting partners through technology and skills sharing. This emphasis on solidarity and mutual support is a key reason why the summit matters: it underscores a shift away from zero-sum geopolitics toward collaborative development.
R. Deepak, professor of Chinese studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, observed that Xi's early years shaped his people-centered approach and poverty alleviation strategies. Such grassroots governance, Deepak noted, deeply resonates with Global South nations that share similar developmental journeys and strive to improve their people's lives. This connection is significant because it suggests that China's model of development, focusing on practical improvements, offers an alternative paradigm for countries seeking to overcome poverty and underdevelopment.
The video reflects that 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 unite for this common goal, the paths to development and modernization open up to more possibilities. The implications are profound: the BRICS summit and China's philosophy are not just diplomatic rhetoric but a call for a more inclusive world order where emerging economies can thrive together.
For more information on the BRICS Business Council, visit BRICS Business Council.
