Sun Jul 06 08:10:26 UTC 2025: ## BRICS Summit in Brazil Focuses on Multilateralism Amidst Trump’s Trade Policies

**Rio de Janeiro, Brazil** – Leaders from the BRICS bloc are convening in Rio de Janeiro this week for a summit expected to heavily criticize former US President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs and promote the organization as a champion of multilateralism. The gathering, featuring representatives from Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newly added full members like Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, will focus on fostering cooperation among developing nations amidst concerns about Western dominance.

The absence of Chinese President Xi Jinping, represented by Prime Minister Li Qiang, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, avoiding potential arrest due to an International Criminal Court warrant, casts a shadow over the summit and raises questions about BRICS unity.

Despite these absences, leaders are expected to voice strong opposition to Trump’s trade policies, deeming them harmful to the global economy. Discussions will also encompass global health, artificial intelligence, and climate change.

BRICS, representing a significant portion of the world’s population, landmass, and economic output, aims to serve as a counterweight to the G7 and amplify the voice of the Global South.

While the summit seeks to project a united front, underlying divisions exist. According to sources, member states hold differing views on pressing global issues, including the Israel-Gaza conflict.

“The BRICS goal is to exert pressure for a multipolar world with inclusive global governance to give a meaningful voice to the Global South, especially in the trading system,” reports Al Jazeera’s Lucia Newman. However, the ability of the expanded BRICS to forge a unified and impactful bloc remains a key question.

Read More