Xi unveils AI and trade initiatives as China moves to strengthen ‘Greater Brics’
At the BRICS summit in Delhi, President Xi Jinping outlined new AI and trade initiatives to deepen cooperation among the bloc’s members. China will lead a BRICS AI Open Source Zone, propose a Special Economic Zone partnership, and host a Service Trade Forum next year, all as part of a broader effor…
During the BRICS summit in Delhi, President Xi Jinping announced a series of initiatives aimed at deepening cooperation within the bloc. The measures focus on artificial intelligence, trade, and investment, reflecting China’s ambition to elevate BRICS to a more influential position on the world stage.
AI Collaboration and the Greater BRICS Initiative
Xi described the new efforts as part of the “Greater BRICS Initiative,” a concept that seeks to create a more integrated and practical partnership among the member states. He stressed that success would hinge on establishing a solid foundation for real‑world cooperation. The centerpiece of the AI agenda is the proposed BRICS AI Open Source Zone, which would promote collaboration on large language models, training programs, and an open AI ecosystem.
By positioning China as the lead in this zone, Xi hopes to leverage the country’s rapid AI development to benefit all members. The initiative is intended to create shared standards and tools that can be used across the bloc, fostering innovation while maintaining a level of openness that encourages participation from both BRICS members and partner countries.
Trade and Investment: New Forums and Zones
In addition to AI, Xi unveiled plans for a BRICS Special Economic Zone partnership and announced that China would host a BRICS Service Trade Forum next year. These steps are designed to strengthen trade and investment ties, streamline supply chains, and create a more integrated market.
The Special Economic Zone partnership aims to create a network of zones across BRICS countries where businesses can operate with reduced regulatory barriers, encouraging cross‑border investment. Meanwhile, the upcoming Service Trade Forum will focus on expanding services trade, a sector that has seen significant growth in recent years but still faces challenges such as market access and regulatory differences.
Broader Context: BRICS’ Expanding Membership and Geopolitical Role
BRICS originally comprised Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Since its inception, the bloc has expanded to include ten full members—adding Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE—and ten partner countries, including Cuba, Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. This growth has broadened BRICS’ reach across the Global South, but the interests of its diverse members remain varied.
India currently chairs the organization, with China slated to take over in 2027. The summit in Delhi provided a platform for leaders to discuss not only economic cooperation but also political and security collaboration. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the bloc’s potential to create a “fairer” world order, while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of making BRICS solutions accessible to developing countries beyond the bloc.
Geopolitical Developments at the Summit
The summit also witnessed significant diplomatic breakthroughs. A joint declaration on the Middle East conflict was issued, with Iran and the UAE urging restraint and dialogue. This declaration came amid escalating tensions in the region, including renewed attacks between Iran and the United States and threats to shipping routes by Houthi forces in Yemen.
High‑level meetings took place on the sidelines, such as a historic meeting between Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE, marking the first senior-level contact between the two nations since the war in the Middle East began. Discussions focused on de‑escalation, regional stability, and peace initiatives.
In a separate development, China and India’s leaders met to discuss a cautious rapprochement. Xi described the relationship as “strategic and long‑term,” urging both countries to draw on each other’s strengths and pursue high‑quality cooperation. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to resolving the border dispute in a fair and mutually acceptable manner, emphasizing that differences should not become disputes.
What’s Next for BRICS?
With China’s new initiatives, BRICS is poised to deepen its economic integration and expand its geopolitical influence. The AI Open Source Zone and the upcoming Service Trade Forum are expected to foster innovation and streamline trade, while the Special Economic Zone partnership could attract significant investment across the bloc.
However, challenges remain. Trade imbalances, supply‑chain disruptions, and divergent strategic interests—particularly between China and India—continue to pose obstacles. The bloc’s success will depend on its ability to navigate these complexities while maintaining a cohesive vision for a multipolar world.
As BRICS moves forward, observers will watch how these initiatives unfold and whether they can translate into tangible economic benefits and a more balanced global order.
Why it matters
China’s push to lead AI and trade initiatives within BRICS signals a strategic effort to reshape the bloc’s role in global affairs, potentially altering the balance of power and offering new opportunities for member economies.
Key points
- China launches BRICS AI Open Source Zone to boost AI collaboration
- Proposes BRICS Special Economic Zone partnership and Service Trade Forum
- India chairs BRICS; China will take over in 2027
- Joint declaration on Middle East conflict issued at summit
- China and India leaders emphasize strategic cooperation and border dispute resolution
Frequently asked questions
What is the BRICS AI Open Source Zone?
It is a proposed platform where BRICS members collaborate on large language models, training, and an open AI ecosystem, led by China.
When will the BRICS Service Trade Forum take place?
China plans to host the forum next year, focusing on expanding services trade among BRICS members.
How many full members does BRICS have now?
BRICS now has ten full members, including the original five plus Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE.
