The Chinese president is expected to discuss the future of BRICS with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and outline Beijing’s priorities ahead of China’s 2027 BRICS presidency.
His arrival comes at a significant moment for the grouping, with China using the summit to emphasise greater cooperation among emerging economies and a stronger role for the Global South.
Xi is expected to hold discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other participating leaders on international developments, the future direction of BRICS and ways to expand practical cooperation between member countries.
China Puts ‘Fairness’ and ‘Justice’ at the Centre of Its BRICS Message
Ahead of Xi’s arrival, China’s state-run Global Times published an editorial outlining Beijing’s view of the BRICS grouping.
The editorial described BRICS as an increasingly important platform at a time of geopolitical and economic uncertainty. It argued that the group’s significance rests on principles including openness, inclusiveness, cooperation and what it described as fairness and justice.
According to the editorial, the changing global environment has made cooperation among BRICS countries increasingly important.
China also argued that the grouping has considerable room for further development as it seeks to improve the effectiveness and practical impact of its cooperation.
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Xi Expected to Present China’s BRICS Priorities
Xi is expected to exchange views with fellow leaders on international affairs and the future development of BRICS.
Beijing is also expected to put forward proposals aimed at expanding and strengthening cooperation within the grouping.
China’s messaging points to a broader ambition for BRICS, particularly in areas involving economic development, technology, sustainability and cooperation among developing countries.
The Chinese government has previously promoted the BRICS Plus concept, which seeks to expand engagement beyond the group’s original membership.
China Highlights Its Role in Expanding BRICS
The Global Times editorial pointed to several initiatives associated with China’s involvement in BRICS over the years.
These include support for the New Development Bank, the expansion of BRICS membership and cooperation in areas ranging from innovation and environmental development to people-to-people exchanges.
China has also promoted what it calls the “BRICS Spirit”, centred on openness, inclusiveness and mutually beneficial cooperation.
The editorial presented these efforts as part of China’s broader push to increase the group’s global influence and adapt its structure to changing international conditions.
China to Take Over BRICS Presidency in 2027
Another important development is China’s upcoming leadership role.
China will assume the rotating BRICS presidency in 2027, giving Beijing an opportunity to shape the group’s priorities for the following year.
According to the Chinese state media editorial, China intends to use its presidency to strengthen unity through multilateralism and encourage greater coordination of development strategies among member states.
Beijing is also expected to promote four initiatives associated with President Xi:
- Global Development Initiative
- Global Security Initiative
- Global Civilization Initiative
- Global Governance Initiative
AI, Green Development and Digital Economy Among Priorities
China’s proposed areas for practical cooperation include several sectors that are increasingly important to developing economies.
These include:
- Artificial intelligence
- Digital economy
- Green development
- Agriculture
- Poverty reduction
The emphasis suggests that Beijing wants BRICS cooperation to produce tangible economic and developmental outcomes rather than remain focused only on political declarations.
India’s BRICS Summit Focus
India is hosting the 18th BRICS summit under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
The agenda places emphasis on development, sustainability and innovation while seeking to strengthen BRICS as a constructive platform for the Global South.
Xi’s presence in Delhi adds particular significance to the summit because India and China remain two of the most influential members of the expanded grouping.
The discussions between Xi and Modi are therefore expected to attract close attention alongside the broader BRICS agenda.
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What China Wants From a ‘Greater BRICS’
China’s messaging suggests that Beijing sees an expanded BRICS as an important vehicle for increasing cooperation among countries of the Global South.
The Global Times editorial called for a BRICS that is more united, efficient and practical, while taking on a greater role in addressing global challenges.
Beijing’s approach places multilateral cooperation at the centre of its vision and seeks to connect development priorities across member countries.
Xi’s Delhi Visit Comes at a Key Moment for BRICS
Xi’s return to Delhi after seven years comes as BRICS continues to evolve following its expansion.
For China, the summit provides an opportunity to promote its vision of a stronger and more influential Global South platform. For India, hosting the meeting provides a chance to advance its own priorities on development, sustainability, innovation and cooperation.
The outcome of the summit will depend on how far member countries can translate broad principles into concrete initiatives.
With China set to take over the BRICS presidency in 2027, the discussions in Delhi could also offer an early indication of the priorities Beijing may pursue next year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Xi Jinping visiting India?
Xi Jinping has arrived in New Delhi to attend the 18th BRICS summit and participate in discussions on international affairs, BRICS’ future and cooperation among member countries.
When did Xi Jinping last visit Delhi?
According to the supplied report, Xi’s current visit comes seven years after his previous visit to New Delhi.
What does China want from BRICS?
China is advocating greater cooperation, multilateralism and stronger engagement among Global South countries. It has also highlighted areas such as technology, green development and economic cooperation.
When will China hold the BRICS presidency?
China is scheduled to take over the rotating BRICS presidency in 2027.
What is India’s theme for the 2026 BRICS summit?
India is hosting the summit under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”
Which areas could China prioritise during its BRICS presidency?
The Chinese messaging cited in the report highlights the digital economy, artificial intelligence, green development, agriculture and poverty reduction.
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