Why it matters:
With its expanded membership and rising influence, BRICS aims to reshape the global order and give the Global South a stronger voice in international decision-making.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva welcomed Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araqchi upon his arrival at the venue of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
What he’s saying:
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called for reforming outdated global institutions like the UN Security Council and the IMF, saying they no longer represent today’s world.
He also warned against the unchecked growth of artificial intelligence, urging collective oversight to prevent tech monopolies from dictating the future.
What they’re saying:
Member states discussed boosting South-South cooperation, pushing back against U.S. trade policies, and promoting fairness in global economic structures. The Israeli genocide in Gaza and the Israeli war on Iran concluded.
Key points:
- Iran is represented by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, attending in place of President Pezeshkian.
- China and Russia are not represented by their presidents; Xi and Putin are absent.
- Over 30 countries have applied for BRICS membership or cooperation.
Go deeper:
Iran Appreciates BRICS for Condemnation Israeli-U.S. Flagrant Aggression on Iran
ahmad shirzadian
