Chinese President Xi Jinping, addressing a BRICS leaders’ meeting via video link on Monday, called for a unified response from the bloc—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE—to counter trade disruptions caused by U.S. President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies.

Speaking at a summit convened by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Xi criticized “hegemonism, unilateralism, and protectionism” from “some country”—an implicit jab at the U.S.—for undermining global trade rules and destabilizing emerging economies.

Xi emphasized the “BRICS Spirit” of openness and cooperation, urging the bloc, which represents 46% of the world’s population and 35.6% of global GDP, to champion multilateralism and reform global governance to amplify the Global South’s voice. He highlighted his Global Governance Initiative (GGI), introduced at the recent SCO summit, to promote a “just and equitable” world order centered on the UN, countering U.S. dominance.

Also Read: Comprehensive Support Package Underway For Exporters Hit By US Tariffs: FM Sitharaman

Without naming Trump, Xi referenced the U.S.’s 10% tariff threat on BRICS nations for alleged “anti-American policies” and earlier 100% tariff warnings against a potential BRICS currency. He advocated for an open global economy, warning against isolationism, and urged BRICS to leverage its vast resources and markets to deepen cooperation in business, finance, and technology.

The call follows Trump’s July 2025 tariff threats during the Rio BRICS summit, which prompted Lula to reject direct U.S. trade talks and push for collective BRICS strategies. Xi’s absence from that summit underscored internal BRICS challenges, but his speech signals a push for solidarity to navigate Trump’s trade war, which has already driven India and China closer.

Also Read: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Shows Significant Recovery, Chairs Cabinet Meet from Hospital