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. The summit marked the 20th anniversary of BRICS cooperation, a milestone highlighted by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his address at Session I of the 18th BRICS Summit. Xi noted that over the past two decades, 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 of the summit, the People's Daily released a video titled "Through Xi's Eyes: Finding the answer to the 'warmth of BRICS,'" which illustrates the warmth of multilateral cooperation and how China's development philosophy resonates across the Global South. The video features interviews with key figures who emphasize the shared bonds among emerging nations.
Busi Mabuza, South African chairperson of the BRICS Business Council, stressed that most Global South countries are recently emerging from developing nation status and 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 BRICS partners through the sharing of technology and skills. This sentiment underscores the practical benefits of cooperation, such as access to new technologies and capacity-building initiatives that can drive economic growth.
R. Deepak, professor of Chinese studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, observed that President Xi's early years laid the foundation for his people-centered approach and poverty alleviation strategies. Deepak, who brought stacks of President Xi's works back from China, pointed out that such grassroots governance deeply resonates with nations of the Global South that share similar developmental journeys and strive to build a better life for their people. This resonance is not merely ideological but practical, as countries seek concrete improvements like paved roads and new jobs.
The implications of this summit extend beyond diplomatic rhetoric. For readers in the Global South, the emphasis on development as a tangible goal—from infrastructure to employment—signals that BRICS cooperation may translate into real-world benefits. For industries, the focus on technology and skill sharing could open new markets and partnerships, particularly in emerging economies. Globally, the summit reinforces the shift toward a multipolar world where inclusive governance and multilateralism challenge traditional power structures. As nations unite around common development goals, the paths to modernization open up to more possibilities, potentially reshaping international relations and economic dynamics.
The video released by the People's Daily serves as a testament to the growing influence of China's development philosophy, which prioritizes people-centered growth and poverty alleviation. By highlighting the shared experiences of Asian, African, and Latin American nations, it underscores that development is not an abstract concept but a collective journey toward prosperity. As BRICS continues to evolve, its role in fostering sustainable global economic growth and supporting the aspirations of the Global South remains crucial.
