The 17th BRICS Summit took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from July 6–7, 2025, under the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation”. It marked a significant moment in the bloc’s evolution, with major geopolitical, economic, and institutional developments.
Key Outcomes and Highlights
UN Security Council Reform
BRICS leaders called for India and Brazil to be granted permanent seats on the UN Security Council. It also emphasized the need for greater representation from developing countries, particularly those in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Expansion of BRICS
- Indonesia was formally inducted as a full member.
- Vietnam joined as a new partner nation.
- Other new partner countries include Nigeria, Kazakhstan, Bolivia, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.
- BRICS now includes 11 full members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran.
Global Peace and Security
Condemned military strikes on Iran and emphasized upholding international law and nuclear safeguards. Reaffirmed commitment to multilateralism, peaceful conflict resolution, and humanitarian law. Expressed concern over global polarization, military spending, and ongoing conflicts, including in Ukraine and Gaza.
Economic and Financial Cooperation
Advocated for trading in local currencies to reduce dependence on the U.S. dollar. Discussed alternative financial systems and project financing using national currencies. China announced a BRICS research center and scholarship program to boost cooperation in AI, industry, and telecom.
Climate and Development
Focused on climate financing, sustainable development, and preparations for COP30 in Brazil later this year. Released a climate financing framework and initiatives to address health and social determinants of disease.
Strategic Vision
BRICS has positioned itself as a vanguard for global governance reform and a primary channel for solidarity among the Global South. The summit reinforced BRICS’s role in promoting a multipolar world order and inclusive globalization.
What to Watch
- Implementation of local currency trade mechanisms.
- Reactions from G7 and WTO to BRICS trade reforms.
- Shifts in global supply chains as BRICS nations deepen cooperation.