Openness, inclusiveness and cooperation BRICS' solution to issues in volatile world: China Daily editorial

Despite the efforts of certain parties to discredit or contain it, the BRICS grouping has continually expanded and grown in stature in recent years. This was reinforced by the 17th BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday and Monday, which was the first summit held after the latest member Indonesia and 10 partner countries joined the grouping. In addition, some emerging markets and developing countries, international and regional organizations were invited to attend the meeting.

This highlights that the greater BRICS cooperation mechanism has become a key platform for solidarity and cooperation among emerging market economies and developing countries. It has developed to be a major force promoting multipolarization and inclusive economic globalization.

The BRICS members account for over half of the world's population, nearly 30 percent of global GDP, and more than 50 percent of global economic growth. This signifies the historic shift of the Global South from the periphery to the center of the international arena. The growing diversity of BRICS further underscores its commitment to inclusivity and its nature as a representative of the Global South.

It is also a practical development enabler for Global South countries, providing infrastructure investment, technology transfer and financial integration. For many Global South members facing infrastructure challenges, food insecurity and climate vulnerabilities, BRICS offers much-needed support where others have fallen short.

Amid the mounting geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation, the greater BRICS cooperation mechanism is also increasingly recognized as a source of stability and certainty. The BRICS countries are committed to practicing true multilateralism, upholding the international system with the United Nations at its core, as well as supporting and strengthening the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its center.

By strengthening their policy communication and coordinating their positions, the BRICS countries are constructively advancing reform of the global governance system. The grouping has amplified the voice of developing countries to give them a greater say in international rulemaking.

At a time when international rules are being undermined and bullying practices are on the rise, the grouping is resolutely advocating for fairness and justice in global affairs.

Under the theme "Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance", the Rio de Janeiro summit served to amplify the voices of countries long marginalized in global decision-making. That is conducive to a fairer and more harmonious world.

As Premier Li Qiang said in his speech at the plenary session on Sunday, all parties have come to see the growing necessity and urgency to reform the global governance system, and all are participating in and promoting the reform of global governance through various means. China believes that in this process it is necessary to firmly safeguard the shared interests of the international community and always stand on the right side of history.

President Xi Jinping put forward extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit 10 years ago as the solution to the global governance challenges. The interwoven changes and turbulence in the current international landscape only serve to prove the relevance of Xi's proposal and how imperative it is to put it into practice.

History clearly indicates that power politics and bullying are never the right way to solve problems. The security and development of all countries should be respected. "There should be less arrogance and prejudice, and more sincerity and understanding," Li correctly pointed out.

With notable advantages in market, resources, industries and other factors, BRICS countries should play an active role in spearheading development cooperation, unlock the growth potential in emerging areas, and continue to explore new space for mutually beneficial cooperation.

China will establish the China-BRICS New Quality Productive Forces Research Center and the BRICS New Industry Golden Egret Excellence Scholarships this year, which will help BRICS countries train talents in industry and telecommunication, and pursue innovation-driven development.

Development should not be a zero-sum game where one party profits at the expense of another, but a win-win pursuit where all can benefit through mutual assistance. The development of countries creates opportunities, not threats; and when everyone is willing to share opportunities, there will be more opportunities and benefits to share.