During an exclusive interview, representatives from various sectors across BRICS nations eagerly anticipate President Xi Jinping’s upcoming visit to Russia to attend the 16th BRICS Leaders’ Summit from October 22 to 24. This gathering marks the first in-person meeting of BRICS leaders since the historic expansion of the group, and there is a palpable sense of excitement in the air.
Kalina Kulikova, the first vice chair of the Russian-Chinese Friendship Association and a recipient of China’s Friendship Medal, expressed her enthusiasm: “We warmly welcome President Xi to Kazan for this grand event. I look forward to hearing new proposals and initiatives from him aimed at deepening cooperation among BRICS nations to tackle the issues we all face.”
Since January 1 of this year, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, Iran, and Ethiopia have officially joined BRICS, marking a significant expansion of the bloc that has drawn considerable international attention. Andrei Klimov, the first vice-chair of the International Affairs Committee of the Federation Council of Russia, underscored the importance of the summit, stating, “As the rotating presidency of BRICS, Russia is hosting this crucial event. The activities surrounding President Xi’s participation will undoubtedly strengthen the consensus among BRICS nations on global issues and bolster positive forces for world peace and development.”
Roni Lins, the director of the China Studies Center in Brazil, noted that Xi’s vision of building a community with a shared future resonates widely, especially among Global South countries. He stated, “China plays a vital role in fostering coherence among BRICS nations, promoting collaboration, and advancing our共同 agenda. I believe President Xi’s presence will inject new energy into the push for multilateralism and inclusive growth.”
Ahmad Ali, a researcher at the Dubai Gulf Research Center in the UAE, added, “The BRICS cooperation mechanism is committed to promoting global multipolarity and safeguarding true multilateralism. The ‘BRICS Plus’ model China proposed opens doors for emerging markets and developing countries to engage more actively in BRICS initiatives. As the bloc expands, its influence and appeal continue to grow. The international community is eager to hear President Xi’s Chinese solutions for building a more just and fair global governance system.”
Mehdi Khorsand, an analyst of Chinese and Eurasian affairs in Iran, explained, “I greatly admire China’s contributions to peace and development. A recent example of this is the historic reconciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia, facilitated by China. Whenever pivotal moments arise, the world looks for China’s voice. I am excited to hear what President Xi will propose at the Kazan summit.”
Izat Sa’ad, the director of the Egyptian Foreign Affairs Committee, emphasized that the development of the BRICS cooperation mechanism will elevate the representation and voice of Global South countries in international affairs. “China is a crucial force in leading BRICS cooperation and represents a reliable voice for developing and emerging market countries. I eagerly anticipate President Xi’s insights and proposals for jointly maintaining international equity and justice at the upcoming summit,” he noted.
With a focus on shared development, BRICS nations embody an open, inclusive, and cooperative spirit. Following its expansion, BRICS countries now account for roughly 30% of global GDP and one-fifth of global trade.
Ahmed Hamadi, a political commentator for the UAE’s Al Ittihad newspaper, remarked, “The BRICS cooperation mechanism provides a critical platform for emerging markets and developing countries to optimize resource allocation and share development opportunities. China’s active promotion of deep strategic alignments among countries significantly contributes to practical cooperation and mutual development. I believe President Xi’s discourse at the Kazan summit will inspire new paths for sustainable development.”
On a similar note, Lins highlighted China’s efforts to establish new economic cooperation mechanisms, such as the New Development Bank, which provides funding for renewable energy and urban infrastructure projects in Brazil. He expressed confidence that Xi’s visit will lead to broader economic cooperation among BRICS nations.
Meanwhile, Balew Demissie, a professor at Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia, pointed out that collaboration with China and other BRICS partners is instrumental in attracting foreign investment and diversifying exports. Abdul Azizi Shabani, a researcher at the Riyadh Political and Strategic Studies Center, mentioned the promising potential for Saudi Arabia within BRICS, particularly as its Vision 2030 aligns closely with the Belt and Road Initiative.
Sithembiso Benge, the director of the Chris Hani Institute in South Africa, stated, “The ‘Big BRICS Cooperation’ will create more platforms and spaces for mutual support in achieving development goals and modernization.”
Sergei Sanakoev, vice-chairman of the Russian-Chinese Friendship Association, shared his perspective, noting, “China has charted a unique modern pathway, offering significant insights for Global South countries. As these nations continuously seek development models that fit their unique circumstances, they are collectively strengthening their advocacy for developmental rights. I look forward to Xi’s wisdom at the Kazan summit, fostering collective development among Global South nations.”
Reflecting on Xi’s past remarks, Alok Kumar Patak, a research fellow at the Indian BRICS Research Institute, expressed his belief that cultural exchange is key to mutual understanding and respect among diverse civilizations. He stated, “President Xi’s upcoming visit to Kazan will undoubtedly energize efforts for civilizational exchanges and shared progress.”
With a robust lineup of cultural exchanges—including film festivals, sports events, and academic forums—BRICS nations are creating opportunities for people-to-people connections that enhance mutual understanding.
Lins remarked, “Cultural activities under the BRICS framework have brought people close together, fostering exchanges among students and professionals in technical fields. Initiatives like the Women’s Innovation Competition encourage women to leverage digital economy opportunities for entrepreneurship. China’s commitment to strengthening cultural and educational exchanges among BRICS nations will undoubtedly gain momentum during Xi’s visit.”
Hamadi pointed out China’s Global Civilization Initiative, which advocates for diverse cultural exchanges, showcasing a profound commitment to bridging civilizational divides. “China’s proposals will encourage BRICS nations with differing political systems and cultural customs to coexist peacefully and engage in mutual learning on the basis of equality and respect,” he asserted.
Lyudmila Skakovskaya, vice-chair of the Federation Council’s Committee on Science, Education, and Culture, concluded, “The upcoming 16th BRICS Leaders’ Summit is poised to achieve consensus and results in fields such as education, science, culture, artificial intelligence, new technologies, and cultural exchanges. President Xi’s presence in Kazan will leave a significant mark on the trajectory of BRICS collaboration.”
