Dates: July 6–7, 2025
Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Theme: “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance”
Chair: President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (Brazil)
Official Website: brics.br
The 17th BRICS Summit marked a pivotal moment in the bloc’s evolution, focusing on multipolar global governance and enhancing the influence of emerging economies.
Full-Time Members of BRICS (as of July 2025)
- Brazil
- Russia
- India
- China
- South Africa
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- Indonesia
- Iran
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates
Indonesia became the first Southeast Asian nation to join as a full member in January 2025.
Key Outcomes of the 17th BRICS Summit
1. Climate Finance and Environmental Initiatives
- Adoption of 126 commitments covering global governance, finance, health, AI, and climate action.
- Emphasis on reforming global financial systems to support climate initiatives.
- Introduction of the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF), a $125 billion fund proposed by Brazil for tropical forest conservation.
- Endorsement of the BRICS Partnership for the Elimination of Socially Determined Diseases to tackle health disparities rooted in poverty and social exclusion.
2. Artificial Intelligence Governance
- Adoption of the BRICS Leaders’ Statement on Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence.
- Commitment to responsible AI development and deployment respecting national regulations and the UN Charter.
3. Reform of Global Governance
- Reiteration of the need for a just, equitable, and effective international system.
- Advocacy for greater representation of Emerging Markets, Developing Countries, and Least Developed Countries in global decision-making, especially within the UN Security Council.
4. Economic and Financial Cooperation
- Emphasis on strengthening economic ties and sustainable development.
- Discussion on expanding the role of the New Development Bank (NDB) to fund infrastructure and development projects in the Global South.
5. Combating Terrorism
- Unified condemnation of recent terror attacks, notably in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.
- Affirmation of a resolute global stance against terrorism by BRICS members.
Looking Ahead
- The summit sets a foundation for enhanced cooperation among BRICS members.
- India is slated to host the 18th BRICS Summit in 2026, continuing the effort for a more inclusive global governance framework.
- Expanded membership and increased multilateral cooperation signal BRICS’ intent to reshape the global order in favor of emerging and developing nations.
