2 July, 2025-China has officially confirmed that Premier Li Qiang will attend the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in place of President Xi Jinping. The summit is scheduled to take place from July 5 to 8, 2025. The announcement was made by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning during a regular press briefing.
This marks a significant development in China’s diplomatic approach, as President Xi has traditionally led the Chinese delegation at previous BRICS summits. The ministry did not disclose the reason for Xi’s absence, but analysts suggest it could be related to internal priorities or a shift in the delegation of diplomatic roles within the Chinese leadership.
Li Qiang, known for his economic expertise and pragmatic governance, is expected to focus on strengthening multilateral cooperation, promoting trade and investment among member states, and pushing forward China’s agenda on global economic reform. His participation indicates Beijing’s continued commitment to the BRICS bloc, even as it diversifies the leadership representing the country on the world stage.
The 2025 BRICS Summit is expected to focus on a range of critical issues, including expanding the group’s membership, enhancing South-South cooperation, and advancing the de-dollarization agenda. The use of local currencies in trade, reform of global financial institutions, and boosting digital infrastructure among developing nations will also be key topics of discussion.
The summit comes at a time when BRICS is positioning itself as a counterbalance to Western-dominated global institutions. With growing interest from countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia to join the bloc, member states are likely to deliberate on the framework for future expansion and the strategic direction of the group.
Li’s presence is seen as a continuation of China’s strategic objectives within BRICS while signaling a broader role for the Premier in foreign affairs. It also reflects China’s ongoing efforts to promote a multipolar global order through enhanced collaboration with emerging economies.
The summit in Rio de Janeiro is expected to conclude with a joint declaration outlining the collective vision and commitments of the BRICS nations on key global and regional issues.
