During the second day of the BRICS 2026 Summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of enhanced collaboration among Global South nations. He introduced five initiatives aimed at boosting cooperation among emerging economies. Xi highlighted the need for global rules to be shaped inclusively by all nations and urged BRICS members to adhere to principles such as international law, sovereign equality, non-interference, and peaceful dispute resolution. He rejected the “might makes right” ideology, advocating instead for rules that apply equally without double standards.
The proposed initiatives cover various areas including artificial intelligence, trade and investment, the digital economy, intelligent manufacturing, and the development of science and technology talent. One significant proposal is the creation of a BRICS AI open-source community, which would foster cooperation on large language models and aim to build an inclusive AI ecosystem. Additionally, China suggested a trade and investment facilitation initiative that includes forming a partnership for BRICS special economic zones and establishing a new BRICS Forum on Trade in Services.
Digital cooperation is another focal point, with plans to develop a BRICS digital ecosystem cloud platform. This initiative also includes digital skills training and technology exchanges. In the realm of intelligent manufacturing, China committed to supporting the growth of smart factories and establishing common standards to modernize the manufacturing sector.
The fifth initiative targets the cultivation of science and technology talent. This includes the formation of a BRICS engineer cultivation alliance and the introduction of youth exchange programs. These efforts are designed to foster innovation and nurture skilled professionals across member nations.