China, sharply reduced their US treasury holdings in September, cutting a combined 29 billion dollars. India led with a 16.7 billion dollar draw-down, followed by Brazil at 11.8 billion dollars, while China trimmed another 500 million dollars, continuing its multi-year reduction. The pullback comes at a time when the dollar is already under pressure. The dollar index has fallen by over 10 percent in 2025, one of its steepest annual drops in two decades, before a mild rebound recently. Global banks say the sell-off reflects a mix of lower US yields, shifting reserve strategies, and early signs of de-Dollarisation among emerging markets.



India–Russia Push Rupee–Rouble Trade Mechanism

Thailand has formally expressed its ambition to join BRICS and is seeking India’s backing ahead of New Delhi’s chairmanship of the grouping in 2026, Thai Ambassador Chavanart Thangsumphant announced at a sombre National Day reception in the Indian capital on Wednesday. &nbsp;“In this spirit of deeper cooperation, Thailand has also expressed its intention to become a member of BRICS, underscoring our commitment to contributing to inclusive multilateralism and enhanced South–South cooperation, an aspiration we look forward to pursuing alongside India,” Ambassador Chavanart said.As the chair of the BRICS grouping, India will host the summit next year. A founding member of BRICS, India has seen the organisation attract growing global interest, with numerous countries expressing eagerness to join.In her address, Ambassador Chavanart highlighted the rapid elevation of India-Thailand relations, pointing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit earlier this year that upgraded ties to a Strategic Partnership.“Our two nations are bound by centuries of cultural and spiritual heritage. This year saw transformative progress. The official visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Thailand elevated our relations to a Strategic Partnership,” she said.The ambassador also noted the recent visit of Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow to India from 29 November to 2 December, which “further energised our cooperation in connectivity, trade, security, and regional frameworks—reflecting a clear, forward-looking vision for a more prosperous and interconnected future.” She quoted India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, who during the talks described Thailand as a “very important maritime neighbour,” underscoring “genuine trust and shared strategic outlook” between the two countries. It was during this visit that Thailand raised the matter of its BRICS membership with India.Marking the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which is Thailand's national day on 5th December, the event was subdued as Thailand continues a period of national mourning following the death of Queen Mother Sirikit on 24 October. Guests dressed in black observed a minute’s silence and watched a video tribute to Her Majesty’s lifelong dedication to her country. India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, who was the chief guest, welcomed the growing convergence and paid tribute to the late Queen Mother. At the entrance, the embassy displayed portraits of Her Majesty in the eight traditional Chud Thai Phra Rajaniyom dresses.

As the chair of the BRICS grouping, India will host the summit next year. A founding member of BRICS, India has seen the organisation attract growing global interest, with numerous countries expressing eagerness to join.

Thailand has formally expressed its ambition to join BRICS and is seeking India’s backing ahead of New Delhi’s chairmanship of the grouping in 2026, Thai Ambassador Chavanart Thangsumphant announced at a sombre National Day reception in the Indian capital on Wednesday. “In this spirit of deeper cooperation, Thailand has also expressed its intention to become a member of BRICS, underscoring our commitment to contributing to inclusive multilateralism and enhanced South–South cooperation, an aspiration we look forward to pursuing alongside India,” Ambassador Chavanart said. As the chair of the BRICS grouping, India will host the summit next year. A founding member of BRICS, India has seen the organisation attract growing global interest, with numerous countries expressing eagerness to join. In her address, Ambassador Chavanart highlighted the rapid elevation of India-Thailand relations, pointing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit earlier this year that upgraded ties to a Strategic Partnership.“Our two nations are bound by centuries of cultural and spiritual heritage. This year saw transformative progress. The official visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Thailand elevated our relations to a Strategic Partnership,” she said. The ambassador also noted the recent visit of Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow to India from 29 November to 2 December, which “further energised our cooperation in connectivity, trade, security, and regional frameworks—reflecting a clear, forward-looking vision for a more prosperous and interconnected future.” She quoted India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, who during the talks described Thailand as a “very important maritime neighbour,” underscoring “genuine trust and shared strategic outlook” between the two countries. It was during this visit that Thailand raised the matter of its BRICS membership with India. Marking the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, which is Thailand's national day on 5th December, the event was subdued as Thailand continues a period of national mourning following the death of Queen Mother Sirikit on 24 October. Guests dressed in black observed a minute’s silence and watched a video tribute to Her Majesty’s lifelong dedication to her country. India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, who was the chief guest, welcomed the growing convergence and paid tribute to the late Queen Mother. At the entrance, the embassy displayed portraits of Her Majesty in the eight traditional Chud Thai Phra Rajaniyom dresses.

As the chair of the BRICS grouping, India will host the summit next year. A founding member of BRICS, India has seen the organisation attract growing global interest, with numerous countries expressing eagerness to join.

Thailand seeks BRICS membership with India’s support

Donald Trump said that following his tariff threat countries began “dropping out of BRICS” and that they don't talk about replacing the US dollar anymore.


US President says 'BRICS was an attack on the Dollar' 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday (Sep 27) backed the application of India and Brazil for permanent seats at the United Nations Security Council in his speech at the UN General Assembly in New York. He also stressed the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia, as a mechanism for coordinating the interests of the Global South.“The issue of Security Council reform is particularly important. Russia calls for its democratisation exclusively through the expansion of the representation of Asia, Africa and Latin America. We support the application of Brazil and India for permanent seats on the Council, while at the same time correcting the historical injustice towards Africa within the parameters that have been agreed by the countries of the continent themselves,” Lavrov said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Russia&#39;s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says we support the application of Brazil, India for permanent seats at the UNSC.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA</a> <a href="https://t.co/ETbtTXjFFD">pic.twitter.com/ETbtTXjFFD</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1971983680651645165?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Lavrov further asserted that the global balance of power has changed significantly in the 80 years since the UN was founded in 1945. “These new realities are not being adequately reflected in our organisational framework,” he said.He further added, “The global majority is loudly asserting its rights. The SCO and BRICS play a special role as mechanisms for coordinating the interests of the Global South and East.”Painting a narrative of ‘Global South awakening,’ Lavrov stressed that countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America demand a more just representation.“The process of decolonisation and other major upheavals have changed the political map of the planet,” he said. He also proposed declaring a Day of Struggle Against Colonialism on December 14.The Russian minister noted that Moscow’s push to bring reform to the UNSC is not revolutionary but corrective. “Russia advocates for reforming the UN Security Council but does not campaign for a revolution against anyone,” he said.

Lavrov also stressed the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia, as a mechanism for coordinating the interests of the Global South.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday (Sep 27) backed the application of India and Brazil for permanent seats at the United Nations Security Council in his speech at the UN General Assembly in New York. He also stressed the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia, as a mechanism for coordinating the interests of the Global South. “The issue of Security Council reform is particularly important. Russia calls for its democratisation exclusively through the expansion of the representation of Asia, Africa and Latin America. We support the application of Brazil and India for permanent seats on the Council, while at the same time correcting the historical injustice towards Africa within the parameters that have been agreed by the countries of the continent themselves,” Lavrov said.

Lavrov also stressed the significance of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and BRICS, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia, as a mechanism for coordinating the interests of the Global South.

Lavrov backs India’s permanent seat at UNSC, hails role of SCO and BRICS in Global South, East

BRICS nations have overtaken the G7 in their share of the global economy, signaling a major power shift in the world order and highlighting the growing influence of the Global South.


Global South Rising: In 2023, BRICS surpasses G7 in global economic share

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China's 1st Emperor 'Send Quest' To Tibet In Search Of 'Immortality'

US President Donald Trump's White House trade advisor has done it again; Peter Navarro has once again taken a potshot at India. What's different this time? This time dragging the entire BRICS bloc into his tirade and has gone as far as calling India and others "vampires sucking our (America's) blood dry with their unfair trade practices". Navarro made the bizarre statement during a TV interaction. He also claimed that without selling to the United States, the BRICS nations would not survive. Here's all you need to know about Navarro's latest attack against India.<h2>What did Navarro say?</h2>In a TV interview, Navarro said the countries in BRICS — which includes India, China, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa, along with new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia — "would not survive without selling to the US.""When they sell to the US their exports they are like vampires sucking our blood dry with their unfair trade practices," he claimed. He went further, alleging that BRICS nations "hate each other and kill each other" historically. Navarro singled out India and China, describing the two as having been "at war for decades."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I don’t see the BRICS alliance lasting. They’ve long hated each other—and none survive without selling to the United States. <a href="https://t.co/0vqNq8fZaE">pic.twitter.com/0vqNq8fZaE</a>&mdash; Peter Navarro (@RealPNavarro) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealPNavarro/status/1965125447324213348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-breaks-silence-on-modi-trump-ties-after-potus-u-turn-on-america-lost-india-to-china-remark-1757140373958">Jaishankar breaks silence on Modi–Trump ties after POTUS's U-turn on America 'lost India to China' remark</a><h2>Another day, another attack</h2>Navarro's latest remarks follow weeks of attacks on India over its imports of discounted Russian oil. Last week, one of his social media posts was fact-checked by X users, who noted that India's oil trade was about energy security, not profiteering. Having a full-on public meltdown, Navarro then proceeded to dismiss the correction as "crap," and lashed out at Elon Musk, who eventually defended his platform's community notes feature.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-peter-navarro-lashes-out-at-india-again-melts-down-after-netizens-fact-check-his-russian-oil-claim-live-musk-1757207674239">Trump aide Navarro lashes out at India again! Targets Musk in a public meltdown after netizens fact-check his Russian oil claims</a><h2>Navarro's love (hate) for vampires</h2>The "vampire" rhetoric is not new for Navarro. In May, he made similar comments about China in relation to the UK, warning London not to become "a dumping ground" for Chinese goods or "an all too compliant servant of the Chinese Communist Party". "If the Chinese vampire can't suck the American blood, it is going to suck the UK blood and the EU blood," he said, as quoted by the Telegraph.Navarro’s renewed hostility towards India comes in the wake of President Donald Trump's move to double tariffs on Indian imports to 50 per cent, a penalty Washington linked to New Delhi's oil trade with Moscow.

During a TV interview, Trump's advisor Peter Navarro launched a fresh attack on India, labelling it and other BRICS nations as "vampires sucking our blood dry with their unfair trade practices."

US President Donald Trump's White House trade advisor has done it again; Peter Navarro has once again taken a potshot at India. What's different this time? This time dragging the entire BRICS bloc into his tirade and has gone as far as calling India and others "vampires sucking our (America's) blood dry with their unfair trade practices". Navarro made the bizarre statement during a TV interaction. He also claimed that without selling to the United States, the BRICS nations would not survive. Here's all you need to know about Navarro's latest attack against India. What did Navarro say? In a TV interview, Navarro said the countries in BRICS — which includes India, China, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa, along with new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE and Indonesia — "would not survive without selling to the US." "When they sell to the US their exports they are like vampires sucking our blood dry with their unfair trade practices," he claimed. He went further, alleging that BRICS nations "hate each other and kill each other" historically. Navarro singled out India and China, describing the two as having been "at war for decades."

During a TV interview, Trump's advisor Peter Navarro launched a fresh attack on India, labelling it and other BRICS nations as "vampires sucking our blood dry with their unfair trade practices." Here's what he said.

Trump aide Navarro labels India and BRICS 'vampires' claims they're 'sucking US blood dry' in latest bizarre tirade

During the virtual Summit of BRICS Leaders, EAM Dr S Jaishankar says, "It is my privilege to represent Prime Minister Narendra Modi at this virtual meeting of BRICS Leaders. I convey his greetings to all of you. The state of the world today is a cause for genuine concern. The last few years have witnessed the devastating impact of the Covid pandemic, major conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East/West Asia, volatility in trade and investment flows, extreme climate events and a discernible slowing down of the SDG Agenda.

BRICS Virtual Summit Slams US Tariffs


India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will address the BRICS 2025 virtual summit, highlighting key global and regional challenges. Watch to know more on the key discussions taking place.

BRICS 2025: S. Jaishankar To Speak At Crucial BRICS Virtual Summi

As China and Russia accelerate de-dollarisation efforts, questions loom over whether the US can afford strained ties with India. With Trump accusing BRICS of harboring anti-American policies, global power dynamics face a dramatic shift.


As China, Russia step up de-dollarisation efforts, can the USafford to alienate India? 

Trump's tariff war: From 'dead economy' to 'good friend': Trump makes a U-turn 

According to Bloomberg, BRICS leaders are preparing for a virtual summit after Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called for urgent talks to counter Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs.


BRICS summit called to counter Trump’s tariff offensive: report

The U.S. has imposed steep duties on India and Brazil, raising trade tensions. Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced what he calls “discriminatory” sanctions targeting BRICS nations, escalating the global economic standoff.

Trump's tariffs push BRICS nations to unite against US

The U.S. has imposed steep duties on India and Brazil, raising trade tensions. Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced what he calls “discriminatory” sanctions targeting BRICS nations, escalating the global economic standoff.


Putin calls out 'discriminatory' sanctions against BRICS nations

'Xiao he' steals the show, meet humanoid robot assisting journalists at SCO summit 2025 

Brazil has proposed an extraordinary BRICS summit to align a collective response to US trade challenges, following the recent increase in US tariffs on Brazilian goods.

Brazil Requests BRICS Meeting to Counter US Trade Threats

World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are gathering in China for the 25th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The summit comes at a time of global tension, with wars and US President Donald Trump’s policies adding to uncertainty. Many see this meeting as important for building a group that could balance Western influence.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-dragon-elephant-tango-will-pm-modi-s-china-visit-change-the-indo-pacific-balance-1756550879120">'Dragon-Elephant tango': Will PM Modi's China visit change Indo-Pacific balance?</a><h2>Can SCO and BRICS become a genuine counterweight to Western alliances?</h2>Two groupings, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS, have grown in size and influence in recent years. Both present themselves as voices of the Global South and as platforms to promote a multipolar world, one less dominated by the US and Europe. The SCO, formed in 2001, now has 10 members, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan and Central Asian states, with Belarus joining in 2023. BRICS, created in 2009, has expanded to 11 countries, stretching across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Together, they cover nearly half the world’s population and a large share of global GDP.<h2>SCO: Unity with limits</h2>The SCO began as a security forum but has since expanded into economic and political cooperation. It has staged joint anti-terror drills, launched an anti-terror structure in Tashkent, and in 2024, held its first full counter-terrorism exercise using drones and robotics.Economically, SCO members discuss energy corridors, trade and investment, often linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The 2024 Astana summit saw the launch of an SCO Investors Association to support cross-border projects.Diplomatically, the SCO echoes the language of China and Russia, sovereignty, non-interference, and rejection of Western-backed “colour revolutions”. Yet deep divides persist. India and Pakistan rarely align, and India often resists anti-Western declarations. As a result, the SCO acts more as a forum than a unified bloc.<h2>BRICS: Financial tools against Western dominance</h2>BRICS started with five members (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and has grown to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, the UAE and soon Saudi Arabia. Together, they account for a quarter of global GDP. BRICS has launched its own financial institutions, the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, to rival the IMF and World Bank. The bank has issued loans in local currencies, aiming to reduce reliance on the US dollar. Ideas like BRICS Pay, a blockchain-based payment system, are meant to promote trade in members’ currencies.Diplomatically, BRICS seeks to amplify the Global South's voice. At the 2025 Rio summit, leaders called for UN Security Council reform, fairer IMF voting rights, and stronger cooperation on infrastructure. Yet the group faces limits: its members often disagree, especially on Russia’s war in Ukraine, and many remain deeply tied to Western markets.<h2>Western blocs remain more integrated</h2>Compared with the SCO and BRICS, Western alliances like NATO, the EU and the G7 remain more tightly bound. NATO is a military alliance with a collective defence clause and integrated command. The EU has a single market and currency. The G7, though informal, coordinates major economies on sanctions, climate policy and global trade.These Western blocs have deeper structures, stronger enforcement, and higher economic integration than either the SCO or BRICS. While SCO and BRICS issue joint communiqués, they lack the ability to enforce common policies.<h2>Counterweight or counterpart?</h2>Both blocs have expanded their reach: SCO now extends through Eurasia, and BRICS spans Africa, Asia, and beyond. They have established parallel institutions (e.g. SCO’s Regional Antiterrorist Structure; BRICS’s NDB and payment platforms) and issue coordinated messages on global issues. However, major limitations remain. Neither the SCO nor BRICS is a unified military or economic bloc on the model of NATO or the EU. SCO members actively avoid a NATO-like alliance, and BRICS has explicitly stopped short of a common defence structure.Many BRICS economies remain heavily tied to Western markets trade with the US and EU is still a large share of their GDP, which limits how far they can economically decouple.Meanwhile, Western alliances retain deeper integration where it counts, NATO, EU and G7 coordinate security, trade, and technology at a level that SCO and BRICS do not. NATO’s new defence commitments and the EU’s internal market dwarf the SCO’s or BRICS’s loose frameworks. Western unity also remains a comparative advantage: for now, the G7 and EU speak with a largely coherent voice on sanctions and trade (despite occasional US–Europe differences), whereas SCO and BRICS statements often have key absences.Both the SCO and BRICS will have carved out space for non-Western voices and offered alternatives in finance and diplomacy. Yet they have not fully crystallised into viable counterweights on all dimensions. Their collective influence is real but constrained, substantial at the level of ideas and joint declarations, but limited in military capability and practical cohesion. In the coming years, whether SCO and BRICS mature into true counter-blocs will depend on how (and if) they bridge their internal divides and turn summits into coordinated action.

World leaders meet in China for the SCO summit, as SCO and BRICS expand influence, uniting half the world’s population and challenging Western dominance with calls for a multipolar order.

World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are gathering in China for the 25th meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The summit comes at a time of global tension, with wars and US President Donald Trump’s policies adding to uncertainty. Many see this meeting as important for building a group that could balance Western influence. Also read: 'Dragon-Elephant tango': Will PM Modi's China visit change Indo-Pacific balance? Can SCO and BRICS become a genuine counterweight to Western alliances? Two groupings, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS, have grown in size and influence in recent years. Both present themselves as voices of the Global South and as platforms to promote a multipolar world, one less dominated by the US and Europe. The SCO, formed in 2001, now has 10 members, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan and Central Asian states, with Belarus joining in 2023. BRICS, created in 2009, has expanded to 11 countries, stretching across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Together, they cover nearly half the world’s population and a large share of global GDP. SCO: Unity with limits The SCO began as a security forum but has since expanded into economic and political cooperation. It has staged joint anti-terror drills, launched an anti-terror structure in Tashkent, and in 2024, held its first full counter-terrorism exercise using drones and robotics. Economically, SCO members discuss energy corridors, trade and investment, often linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The 2024 Astana summit saw the launch of an SCO Investors Association to support cross-border projects. Diplomatically, the SCO echoes the language of China and Russia, sovereignty, non-interference, and rejection of Western-backed “colour revolutions”. Yet deep divides persist. India and Pakistan rarely align, and India often resists anti-Western declarations. As a result, the SCO acts more as a forum than a unified bloc. BRICS: Financial tools against Western dominance BRICS started with five members (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) and has grown to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, the UAE and soon Saudi Arabia. Together, they account for a quarter of global GDP. BRICS has launched its own financial institutions, the New Development Bank and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement, to rival the IMF and World Bank. The bank has issued loans in local currencies, aiming to reduce reliance on the US dollar. Ideas like BRICS Pay, a blockchain-based payment system, are meant to promote trade in members’ currencies. Diplomatically, BRICS seeks to amplify the Global South's voice. At the 2025 Rio summit, leaders called for UN Security Council reform, fairer IMF voting rights, and stronger cooperation on infrastructure. Yet the group faces limits: its members often disagree, especially on Russia’s war in Ukraine, and many remain deeply tied to Western markets. Western blocs remain more integrated Compared with the SCO and BRICS, Western alliances like NATO, the EU and the G7 remain more tightly bound. NATO is a military alliance with a collective defence clause and integrated command. The EU has a single market and currency. The G7, though informal, coordinates major economies on sanctions, climate policy and global trade. These Western blocs have deeper structures, stronger enforcement, and higher economic integration than either the SCO or BRICS. While SCO and BRICS issue joint communiqués, they lack the ability to enforce common policies. Counterweight or counterpart? Both blocs have expanded their reach: SCO now extends through Eurasia, and BRICS spans Africa, Asia, and beyond. They have established parallel institutions (e.g. SCO’s Regional Antiterrorist Structure; BRICS’s NDB and payment platforms) and issue coordinated messages on global issues. However, major limitations remain. Neither the SCO nor BRICS is a unified military or economic bloc on the model of NATO or the EU. SCO members actively avoid a NATO-like alliance, and BRICS has explicitly stopped short of a common defence structure. Many BRICS economies remain heavily tied to Western markets trade with the US and EU is still a large share of their GDP, which limits how far they can economically decouple. Meanwhile, Western alliances retain deeper integration where it counts, NATO, EU and G7 coordinate security, trade, and technology at a level that SCO and BRICS do not. NATO’s new defence commitments and the EU’s internal market dwarf the SCO’s or BRICS’s loose frameworks. Western unity also remains a comparative advantage: for now, the G7 and EU speak with a largely coherent voice on sanctions and trade (despite occasional US–Europe differences), whereas SCO and BRICS statements often have key absences. Both the SCO and BRICS will have carved out space for non-Western voices and offered alternatives in finance and diplomacy. Yet they have not fully crystallised into viable counterweights on all dimensions. Their collective influence is real but constrained, substantial at the level of ideas and joint declarations, but limited in military capability and practical cohesion. In the coming years, whether SCO and BRICS mature into true counter-blocs will depend on how (and if) they bridge their internal divides and turn summits into coordinated action.

World leaders meet in China for the SCO summit, as SCO and BRICS expand influence, uniting half the world’s population and challenging Western dominance with calls for a multipolar order.

SCO Summit 2025: Can SCO and BRICS become a genuine counterweight to Western alliances such as NATO, G7 and EU?

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is fast emerging as a major global power centre. With Asian superpowers gathering for the summit, debates intensify on its strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities compared to blocs like G7 and BRICS. Can SCO extend its influence and reshape global order?


SCO summit 2025: How SCO compares to G7, BRICS

SCO summit 2025: Will SCO emerge as new global platform? 

President Donald Trump on Tuesday said BRICS was set up to hurt the United States and to “degenerate” the dollar, which he called “king”, adding that all countries in the bloc, including India, would face a 10 per cent tariff. When asked about India’s position, considering its status as a significant US trade partner and BRICS member, Trump clarified that no exceptions would be made. Trump explicitly stated that India’s membership in BRICS means it would be subject to the same additional 10% tariffs planned for the entire bloc. “They (India) have to pay 10 per cent if they are in BRICS, because BRICS was set up to hurt us, to degenerate our dollar, to take it off as a standard. That is okay if they want to play their game, I can play their game too. So anybody that is in BRICS is getting a 10 per cent charge. If they (India), they’re gonna have to pay a 10 per cent tariff,” Trump told reporters.&nbsp;<h2>‘Countries seeking to challenge the dollar are gonna have to pay a big price’</h2>&nbsp;He added that countries seeking to challenge the dollar “are gonna have to pay a big price,” and said, “I don’t think any of them is willing to pay that price.”Trump said he believed BRICS had “largely broke up,” adding, “I thought BRICS was, and I said it a year ago, that it largely broke up, but there are a couple of them hanging around.”“BRICS is not, in my opinion, a serious threat, but what they try to do is to destroy the dollar so that another country can take over and be the standard, and we are not gonna lose the standard,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Country needs a smart leader to protect the dollar’s global standing’</h2>&nbsp;Taking a swipe at former president Joe Biden, Trump said the country needs a smart leader to protect the dollar’s global standing, warning that under “a stupid president like the last one,” the US could lose its position as the issuer of the world’s standard currency, a loss he compared to “losing a war, a major world war.”“If you have a smart president, you will never lose the standard. If you have a stupid president like the last one, you would lose the standard. You wouldn’t have the dollars here. And if we lost the world standard dollar, that would be like losing a war, a major world war. We would not be the same country any longer. The dollar is king. We are gonna keep it that way,” Trump added.

Trump said the country needs a smart leader to protect the dollar’s global standing, warning that under “a stupid president like the last one,” the US could lose its position as the issuer of the world’s standard currency, a loss he compared to “losing a war, a major world war.”

President Donald Trump on Tuesday said BRICS was set up to hurt the United States and to “degenerate” the dollar, which he called “king”, adding that all countries in the bloc, including India, would face a 10 per cent tariff. When asked about India’s position, considering its status as a significant US trade partner and BRICS member, Trump clarified that no exceptions would be made. Trump explicitly stated that India’s membership in BRICS means it would be subject to the same additional 10% tariffs planned for the entire bloc. “They (India) have to pay 10 per cent if they are in BRICS, because BRICS was set up to hurt us, to degenerate our dollar, to take it off as a standard. That is okay if they want to play their game, I can play their game too. So anybody that is in BRICS is getting a 10 per cent charge. If they (India), they’re gonna have to pay a 10 per cent tariff,” Trump told reporters. ‘Countries seeking to challenge the dollar are gonna have to pay a big price’ He added that countries seeking to challenge the dollar “are gonna have to pay a big price,” and said, “I don’t think any of them is willing to pay that price.” Trump said he believed BRICS had “largely broke up,” adding, “I thought BRICS was, and I said it a year ago, that it largely broke up, but there are a couple of them hanging around.” “BRICS is not, in my opinion, a serious threat, but what they try to do is to destroy the dollar so that another country can take over and be the standard, and we are not gonna lose the standard,” he added. ‘Country needs a smart leader to protect the dollar’s global standing’ Taking a swipe at former president Joe Biden, Trump said the country needs a smart leader to protect the dollar’s global standing, warning that under “a stupid president like the last one,” the US could lose its position as the issuer of the world’s standard currency, a loss he compared to “losing a war, a major world war.” “If you have a smart president, you will never lose the standard. If you have a stupid president like the last one, you would lose the standard. You wouldn’t have the dollars here. And if we lost the world standard dollar, that would be like losing a war, a major world war. We would not be the same country any longer. The dollar is king. We are gonna keep it that way,” Trump added.

Trump said the country needs a smart leader to protect the dollar’s global standing, warning that under “a stupid president like the last one,” the US could lose its position as the issuer of the world’s standard currency, a loss he compared to “losing a war, a major world war.”

‘Dollar is king’: Trump says BRICS was set up to hurt us, all nations in bloc will face 10% tariff

Developing nations at the BRICS summit resisted President Donald Trump’s accusation of being “anti-American” while Brazil’s president said on Monday that the world does not need an “emperor” after the US leader threatened extra tariffs on the bloc. Trump’s threat came on Sunday night as the US government prepared to finalise dozens of trade deals with a range of countries before his July 9 deadline for the imposition of significant “retaliatory tariffs”. At the end of the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva struck a defiant note when asked by journalists about the tariff threat from Trump and said, “The world has changed. We don’t want an emperor.”&nbsp;<h2>‘BRICS making people uncomfortable’: Lula</h2>&nbsp;“This is a set of countries that wants to find another way of organizing the world from the economic perspective. I think that’s why the BRICS are making people uncomfortable,” Lula said.&nbsp;In February, Trump had warned that the BRICS would face “100% tariffs” if they tried to undermine the role of the US dollar in global trade.&nbsp;Lula repeated on Monday his view that global trade needs alternatives to the US dollar. “The world needs to find a way that our trade relations don’t have to pass through the dollar,” Lula told journalists. “Obviously, we have to be responsible about doing that carefully. Our central banks have to discuss it with central banks from other countries,” he added.&nbsp;South African President Cyril Ramaphosa told reporters that BRICS does not seek to compete with any other power and expressed confidence in reaching a trade deal with the US.&nbsp;<h2>‘BRICS for win-win cooperation, does not target any country’</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;“Tariffs should not be used as a tool for coercion and pressuring,” Mao Ning, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said in Beijing. The BRICS advocates for "win-win cooperation," she added, and "does not target any country."Many BRICS members and the group’s partner nations are highly dependent on trade with the United States.&nbsp;Trump announced a 25% tariff on all imports from Japan and South Korea, accusing both nations of unfair trade practices in official letters sent to Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung.Later, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Malaysia and Kazakhstan, 30% on South Africa, and 40% on Laos and Myanmar.

In February, President Donald Trump had warned that the BRICS would face “100% tariffs” if they tried to undermine the role of the US dollar in global trade. Lula repeated his view on Monday that global trade needs alternatives to the US dollar.

Developing nations at the BRICS summit resisted President Donald Trump’s accusation of being “anti-American” while Brazil’s president said on Monday that the world does not need an “emperor” after the US leader threatened extra tariffs on the bloc. Trump’s threat came on Sunday night as the US government prepared to finalise dozens of trade deals with a range of countries before his July 9 deadline for the imposition of significant “retaliatory tariffs”. At the end of the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva struck a defiant note when asked by journalists about the tariff threat from Trump and said, “The world has changed. We don’t want an emperor.” ‘BRICS making people uncomfortable’: Lula “This is a set of countries that wants to find another way of organizing the world from the economic perspective. I think that’s why the BRICS are making people uncomfortable,” Lula said. In February, Trump had warned that the BRICS would face “100% tariffs” if they tried to undermine the role of the US dollar in global trade. Lula repeated on Monday his view that global trade needs alternatives to the US dollar. “The world needs to find a way that our trade relations don’t have to pass through the dollar,” Lula told journalists. “Obviously, we have to be responsible about doing that carefully. Our central banks have to discuss it with central banks from other countries,” he added. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa told reporters that BRICS does not seek to compete with any other power and expressed confidence in reaching a trade deal with the US. ‘BRICS for win-win cooperation, does not target any country’ “Tariffs should not be used as a tool for coercion and pressuring,” Mao Ning, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said in Beijing. The BRICS advocates for "win-win cooperation," she added, and "does not target any country." Many BRICS members and the group’s partner nations are highly dependent on trade with the United States. Trump announced a 25% tariff on all imports from Japan and South Korea, accusing both nations of unfair trade practices in official letters sent to Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. Later, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Malaysia and Kazakhstan, 30% on South Africa, and 40% on Laos and Myanmar.

In February, President Donald Trump had warned that the BRICS would face “100% tariffs” if they tried to undermine the role of the US dollar in global trade. Lula repeated his view on Monday that global trade needs alternatives to the US dollar.

World does not want an ‘emperor’, Lula tells Trump after tariff threat to BRICS nations

China on Monday (Jul 7) said that the BRICS is not seeking “confrontation”. This comes in response to the threats made by US President Donald Trump to impose an additional 10 per cent tariffs on countries aligning with the bloc’s “anti-America” policies. On the warnings made by Trump, Russia made a similar statement, saying that BRICS does not undermine other countries. This comes as the intergovernmental organisation, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and other nations, is holding its 17th summit in Brazil.&nbsp;In a statement, China’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said, “Regarding the imposition of tariffs, China has repeatedly stated its position that trade and tariff wars have no winners and protectionism offers no way forward.”&nbsp;In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said, “Any Country aligning itself with the anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”&nbsp;Trump on Sunday (Jul 6) also confirmed that he would start sending the first letters on tariffs and trade deals to several countries on Monday (Jul 7) as the deadline for the temporary pause on duties nears.&nbsp;Defending the grouping, Beijing on Monday said that BRICS is “an important platform for cooperation between emerging markets and developing countries.”&nbsp;“It advocates openness, inclusivity and win-win cooperation,” Mao said. “It does not engage in camp confrontation and is not targeted at any country.”&nbsp;<h2>BRICS statement on Trump’s tariff threats</h2>&nbsp;In a joint statement, the BRICS condemned the increase in tariffs, without naming Trump. The bloc’s members expressed “serious concerns about the rise of unilateral tariff” measures, which were “inconsistent with WTO (World Trade Organization) rules”. The statement added that those restrictions “threaten to reduce global trade, disrupt global supply chains, and introduce uncertainty.”&nbsp;The BRICS Summit in Brazil was marked by the absence of two important leaders – China’s President Xi Jinping did not attend the summit first time since he became his country’s leader, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who joined the via videoconference, as he avoids foreign travel due to an international arrest warrant issued after Russia invaded Ukraine.

Trump on Sunday (Jul 6) also confirmed that he would start sending the first letters on tariffs and trade deals to several countries on Monday (Jul 7) as the deadline for the temporary pause on duties nears.

China on Monday (Jul 7) said that the BRICS is not seeking “confrontation”. This comes in response to the threats made by US President Donald Trump to impose an additional 10 per cent tariffs on countries aligning with the bloc’s “anti-America” policies. On the warnings made by Trump, Russia made a similar statement, saying that BRICS does not undermine other countries. This comes as the intergovernmental organisation, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and other nations, is holding its 17th summit in Brazil. In a statement, China’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said, “Regarding the imposition of tariffs, China has repeatedly stated its position that trade and tariff wars have no winners and protectionism offers no way forward.” In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said, “Any Country aligning itself with the anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump on Sunday (Jul 6) also confirmed that he would start sending the first letters on tariffs and trade deals to several countries on Monday (Jul 7) as the deadline for the temporary pause on duties nears. Defending the grouping, Beijing on Monday said that BRICS is “an important platform for cooperation between emerging markets and developing countries.” “It advocates openness, inclusivity and win-win cooperation,” Mao said. “It does not engage in camp confrontation and is not targeted at any country.” BRICS statement on Trump’s tariff threats In a joint statement, the BRICS condemned the increase in tariffs, without naming Trump. The bloc’s members expressed “serious concerns about the rise of unilateral tariff” measures, which were “inconsistent with WTO (World Trade Organization) rules”. The statement added that those restrictions “threaten to reduce global trade, disrupt global supply chains, and introduce uncertainty.” The BRICS Summit in Brazil was marked by the absence of two important leaders – China’s President Xi Jinping did not attend the summit first time since he became his country’s leader, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who joined the via videoconference, as he avoids foreign travel due to an international arrest warrant issued after Russia invaded Ukraine.

Trump on Sunday (Jul 6) also confirmed that he would start sending the first letters on tariffs and trade deals to several countries on Monday (Jul 7) as the deadline for the temporary pause on duties nears.

Not seeking ‘confrontation’: China, Russia react to Trump’s additional 10% tariff threat on BRICS nations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at Rio de Janeiro’s Museum of Modern Art on Sunday, marking the start of the 17th BRICS Leaders Summit. The three-day meeting comes at a time of intensified global uncertainty, marked by economic decoupling, US tariff threats under Donald Trump’s renewed candidacy, and continuing geopolitical instability, including the Israel-Hamas conflict. This visit is Modi’s fourth to Brazil, and he will also make a State Visit to Brasília, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly 60 years. The theme for this year’s Summit is ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Governance'. India is also set to assume the BRICS chairship in 2026. Taking a closer look, let's understand what exactly is BRICS? Why does it matter globally?&nbsp;<h2>What Is BRICS and Why Does It Matter?</h2>&nbsp;BRICS is an intergovernmental coalition of major emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, established to represent the interests of the Global South in a world dominated by Western-led institutions. The coalition is not a formal organization. Originally coined as 'BRIC' by economist Jim O’Neill in 2001, it became a political forum in 2006, with South Africa joining in 2011. In 2023, the group expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Indonesia, reflecting a push for broader geopolitical influence.&nbsp;The bloc does not function as a formal organisation, it has no charter, secretariat, or binding rules. However, it cooperates on key issues like economic development, financial sovereignty, climate change, and reform of global institutions like the UN and IMF. Its main financial arms include the New Development Bank (NDB), which has approved over $39 billion in infrastructure loans, and a $100 billion Contingent Reserve Arrangement to support members during currency shocks. Partner countries such as Nigeria, Kazakhstan, and Vietnam now also attend summits under a new classification.&nbsp;<h2>BRICS vs G7 and NATO: Who Holds More Power?</h2>&nbsp;BRICS nations account for nearly 40 per cent of global GDP (as per PPP) and represent around half the world’s population, giving the bloc significant economic and demographic weight. Members also control substantial natural resources and energy supplies. However, the G7—comprising the US, UK, Germany, France, Japan, Italy, and Canada, remains more advanced in per capita income, technological capacity, and institutional influence, especially via the IMF, World Bank, and NATO.&nbsp;NATO, on the other hand is very different from BRICS, it is a military alliance with a collective defence framework and a combined military expenditure far exceeding any other bloc. BRICS, by contrast, is focused on economic cooperation and trade, not military coordination.&nbsp;<h2>India’s Role at the Brazil Summit</h2>&nbsp;At the 2025 summit in Rio, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is advancing India's core agenda, which is a unified stance against terrorism, support for climate finance, enhanced AI collaboration, and promotion of trade in national currencies to reduce dollar dependence. India’s position in BRICS is crucial, it is the world’s most populous country and the fastest-growing major economy. As a democracy, India also acts as a balancing force to China’s influence in the bloc, while maintaining ties with the West.&nbsp;India’s leadership in the NDB and its focus on equitable development underline its strategic importance. “As a founding member, India remains committed to BRICS as a vital platform for cooperation among emerging economies,” the PM had said earlier this week. “Together, we strive for a more peaceful, equitable, just, democratic, and balanced multipolar world order.”&nbsp;

BRICS is an intergovernmental coalition of major emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, established to represent the interests of the Global South in a world dominated by Western-led institutions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at Rio de Janeiro’s Museum of Modern Art on Sunday, marking the start of the 17th BRICS Leaders Summit. The three-day meeting comes at a time of intensified global uncertainty, marked by economic decoupling, US tariff threats under Donald Trump’s renewed candidacy, and continuing geopolitical instability, including the Israel-Hamas conflict. This visit is Modi’s fourth to Brazil, and he will also make a State Visit to Brasília, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in nearly 60 years. The theme for this year’s Summit is ‘Strengthening Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Governance'. India is also set to assume the BRICS chairship in 2026. Taking a closer look, let's understand what exactly is BRICS? Why does it matter globally? What Is BRICS and Why Does It Matter? BRICS is an intergovernmental coalition of major emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, established to represent the interests of the Global South in a world dominated by Western-led institutions. The coalition is not a formal organization. Originally coined as 'BRIC' by economist Jim O’Neill in 2001, it became a political forum in 2006, with South Africa joining in 2011. In 2023, the group expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Indonesia, reflecting a push for broader geopolitical influence. The bloc does not function as a formal organisation, it has no charter, secretariat, or binding rules. However, it cooperates on key issues like economic development, financial sovereignty, climate change, and reform of global institutions like the UN and IMF. Its main financial arms include the New Development Bank (NDB), which has approved over $39 billion in infrastructure loans, and a $100 billion Contingent Reserve Arrangement to support members during currency shocks. Partner countries such as Nigeria, Kazakhstan, and Vietnam now also attend summits under a new classification. BRICS vs G7 and NATO: Who Holds More Power? BRICS nations account for nearly 40 per cent of global GDP (as per PPP) and represent around half the world’s population, giving the bloc significant economic and demographic weight. Members also control substantial natural resources and energy supplies. However, the G7—comprising the US, UK, Germany, France, Japan, Italy, and Canada, remains more advanced in per capita income, technological capacity, and institutional influence, especially via the IMF, World Bank, and NATO. NATO, on the other hand is very different from BRICS, it is a military alliance with a collective defence framework and a combined military expenditure far exceeding any other bloc. BRICS, by contrast, is focused on economic cooperation and trade, not military coordination. India’s Role at the Brazil Summit At the 2025 summit in Rio, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is advancing India's core agenda, which is a unified stance against terrorism, support for climate finance, enhanced AI collaboration, and promotion of trade in national currencies to reduce dollar dependence. India’s position in BRICS is crucial, it is the world’s most populous country and the fastest-growing major economy. As a democracy, India also acts as a balancing force to China’s influence in the bloc, while maintaining ties with the West. India’s leadership in the NDB and its focus on equitable development underline its strategic importance. “As a founding member, India remains committed to BRICS as a vital platform for cooperation among emerging economies,” the PM had said earlier this week. “Together, we strive for a more peaceful, equitable, just, democratic, and balanced multipolar world order.”

BRICS is an intergovernmental coalition of major emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, established to represent the interests of the Global South in a world dominated by Western-led institutions.

What is BRICS and why is India central to the 2025 Brazil Summit? Here's everything you need to know

The leaders of Russia and China, two of BRICS’ most influential founding members, have decided not to attend the upcoming summit in Brazil. For the first time in over a decade, Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend a BRICS summit. Instead, Premier Li Qiang will represent Beijing in Brazil. The official explanation mentions “scheduling conflicts”, but the lack of clarity has prompted speculation that China may be reconsidering the group’s strategic value, especially after its rapid expansion.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-wants-putin-back-in-g7-and-make-it-g8-as-earlier-why-was-russia-kicked-out-can-it-return-1750155798487">Trump wants Putin back in G7 and make it G8 as earlier. Why was Russia kicked out?&nbsp;Can it&nbsp;return?</a>Russian President Vladimir Putin is also skipping the summit, a move widely linked to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against him. Brazil, the host nation, is a signatory to the ICC statute, and though it hasn’t indicated it would act on the warrant, Putin is avoiding any potential embarrassment for his hosts. He had similarly withdrawn from last year’s summit in South Africa over the same legal concerns.Putin stands accused by the ICC of playing a key role in the forced deportation of Ukrainian children, a charge that has further isolated him from international platforms.<h2>Expansion may have diluted the bloc’s core vision</h2>BRICS was originally formed as a unified voice of emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, positioning itself as a counterweight to the G7 and Western dominance.But the group’s recent expansion to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE has made it less ideologically cohesive. Many of the new members are authoritarian regimes, and not all share the original BRICS focus on reforming global governance or promoting multilateralism. This ideological drift could be part of why China and Russia are choosing to step back from active participation.Brazil, the summit host, sees BRICS as a platform to champion inclusive global governance, rather than an arena to vent frustration at the West. According to Antonio Patriota, Brazil’s ambassador to the UK and former foreign minister, a shift towards a multipolar world is already underway, thanks in part to past US policies under Donald Trump.Speaking recently in London, Patriota said, “The US, through its policies, including on tariffs and sovereignty, is accelerating the transition to multipolarity in different ways.”Brazil’s proposals for this year’s summit include:• Green energy cooperation• Vaccine collaboration• Expanding Most-Favoured Nation status within the WTOThe absence of Putin and Xi, both known for focusing heavily on anti-West narratives, may help Brazil steer the summit toward more constructive discussions on reform and global cooperation.<h2>A sign of internal strain, or strategy?</h2>While BRICS still presents itself as a powerful bloc, internal contradictions are becoming more visible. India remains wary of China. Brazil is trying to avoid being seen as anti-West. And some of the new members have divergent economic goals or existing partnerships with Western institutions.Xi’s absence, in particular, comes at a time when the US is retreating from global leadership, offering China a rare opportunity to take centre stage. Why Beijing would choose to pass on this chance remains unclear, and could signal a recalibration of its global alliances.Patriota dismissed the idea that a multipolar world would be chaotic. “There is strong support for preserving multilateralism, but that does not mean that we need to preserve it as it stands,” he said.But he also warned that waiting too long to reform existing systems could be dangerous, “Unless there is a strong movement towards reform now, we run the risk of reaching a tipping point.”

BRICS was originally formed as a unified voice of emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, positioning itself as a counterweight to the G7 and Western dominance.

The leaders of Russia and China, two of BRICS’ most influential founding members, have decided not to attend the upcoming summit in Brazil. For the first time in over a decade, Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend a BRICS summit. Instead, Premier Li Qiang will represent Beijing in Brazil. The official explanation mentions “scheduling conflicts”, but the lack of clarity has prompted speculation that China may be reconsidering the group’s strategic value, especially after its rapid expansion. Also read: Trump wants Putin back in G7 and make it G8 as earlier. Why was Russia kicked out? Can it return? Russian President Vladimir Putin is also skipping the summit, a move widely linked to the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant against him. Brazil, the host nation, is a signatory to the ICC statute, and though it hasn’t indicated it would act on the warrant, Putin is avoiding any potential embarrassment for his hosts. He had similarly withdrawn from last year’s summit in South Africa over the same legal concerns. Putin stands accused by the ICC of playing a key role in the forced deportation of Ukrainian children, a charge that has further isolated him from international platforms. Expansion may have diluted the bloc’s core vision BRICS was originally formed as a unified voice of emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, positioning itself as a counterweight to the G7 and Western dominance. But the group’s recent expansion to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE has made it less ideologically cohesive. Many of the new members are authoritarian regimes, and not all share the original BRICS focus on reforming global governance or promoting multilateralism. This ideological drift could be part of why China and Russia are choosing to step back from active participation. Brazil, the summit host, sees BRICS as a platform to champion inclusive global governance, rather than an arena to vent frustration at the West. According to Antonio Patriota, Brazil’s ambassador to the UK and former foreign minister, a shift towards a multipolar world is already underway, thanks in part to past US policies under Donald Trump. Speaking recently in London, Patriota said, “The US, through its policies, including on tariffs and sovereignty, is accelerating the transition to multipolarity in different ways.” Brazil’s proposals for this year’s summit include: • Green energy cooperation • Vaccine collaboration • Expanding Most-Favoured Nation status within the WTO The absence of Putin and Xi, both known for focusing heavily on anti-West narratives, may help Brazil steer the summit toward more constructive discussions on reform and global cooperation. A sign of internal strain, or strategy? While BRICS still presents itself as a powerful bloc, internal contradictions are becoming more visible. India remains wary of China. Brazil is trying to avoid being seen as anti-West. And some of the new members have divergent economic goals or existing partnerships with Western institutions. Xi’s absence, in particular, comes at a time when the US is retreating from global leadership, offering China a rare opportunity to take centre stage. Why Beijing would choose to pass on this chance remains unclear, and could signal a recalibration of its global alliances. Patriota dismissed the idea that a multipolar world would be chaotic. “There is strong support for preserving multilateralism, but that does not mean that we need to preserve it as it stands,” he said. But he also warned that waiting too long to reform existing systems could be dangerous, “Unless there is a strong movement towards reform now, we run the risk of reaching a tipping point.”

BRICS was originally formed as a unified voice of emerging economies, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, positioning itself as a counterweight to the G7 and Western dominance.

Is BRICS’ importance waning? Why Xi and Putin are skipping the Brazil summit

Vietnam joins BRICS as partner country: Here’s why its inclusion matters&nbsp;SOURCE: https://brics.br/en/news/vietnam-joins-brics-as-a-partner-country&nbsp;In a significant development, Vietnam has been formally admitted as a partner country of the BRICS grouping. The announcement was made by the Government of Brazil on Saturday (June 13). Brazil currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, in its capacity as pro tempore Chair.&nbsp;<h2>Vietnam becomes 10th partner country</h2>According to the BRICS, Vietnam becomes the tenth nation to join the BRICS as a partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;The partner country framework was first introduced during the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024.<h2>Why is Vietnam important?</h2>Vietnam's entry holds particular significance due to its strategic position in Asia and its robust economy deeply integrated into global value chains. Home to nearly 100 million people, Vietnam shares key values and priorities with the BRICS community, including the pursuit of a more equitable and representative international order.&nbsp;&nbsp;The country’s strong advocacy for South-South cooperation (technical cooperation among developing countries in the Global South) and sustainable development aligns with the objectives of BRICS.&nbsp;As BRICS continues to evolve beyond its original five-member structure — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — the inclusion of countries like Vietnam shows the bloc’s effort to support emerging voices from the Global South.<h2>Understanding the role of member and partner countries</h2>There are two participation categories at the BRICS: members and partners. The eleven members are Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. They participate in all meetings, where the decision-making process is based on consensus.&nbsp;On the other hand, partner countries are generally invited to participate in the BRICS Chancellors and Leaders Summit. However, they can also be present in other meetings if there is consensus among the members.&nbsp;Throughout 2024, over 30 countries expressed interest in participating in the BRICS, either as members or partners.&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also visited Russia at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin from October 22-23, 2024, to attend the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan.&nbsp;The BRICS is currently composed of eleven countries. Its five original members are&nbsp;Brazil, China, India, Russia, and South Africa, and six new members were admitted in 2024-2025 — Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

Vietnam becomes the tenth nation to join the BRICS as a partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. 

Vietnam joins BRICS as partner country: Here’s why its inclusion matters SOURCE: https://brics.br/en/news/vietnam-joins-brics-as-a-partner-country In a significant development, Vietnam has been formally admitted as a partner country of the BRICS grouping. The announcement was made by the Government of Brazil on Saturday (June 13). Brazil currently holds the rotating presidency of BRICS, in its capacity as pro tempore Chair. Vietnam becomes 10th partner country According to the BRICS, Vietnam becomes the tenth nation to join the BRICS as a partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan. The partner country framework was first introduced during the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024. Why is Vietnam important? Vietnam's entry holds particular significance due to its strategic position in Asia and its robust economy deeply integrated into global value chains. Home to nearly 100 million people, Vietnam shares key values and priorities with the BRICS community, including the pursuit of a more equitable and representative international order. The country’s strong advocacy for South-South cooperation (technical cooperation among developing countries in the Global South) and sustainable development aligns with the objectives of BRICS. As BRICS continues to evolve beyond its original five-member structure — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — the inclusion of countries like Vietnam shows the bloc’s effort to support emerging voices from the Global South. Understanding the role of member and partner countries There are two participation categories at the BRICS: members and partners. The eleven members are Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. They participate in all meetings, where the decision-making process is based on consensus. On the other hand, partner countries are generally invited to participate in the BRICS Chancellors and Leaders Summit. However, they can also be present in other meetings if there is consensus among the members. Throughout 2024, over 30 countries expressed interest in participating in the BRICS, either as members or partners. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also visited Russia at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin from October 22-23, 2024, to attend the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan. The BRICS is currently composed of eleven countries. Its five original members are Brazil, China, India, Russia, and South Africa, and six new members were admitted in 2024-2025 — Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Vietnam becomes the tenth nation to join the BRICS as a partner country, following Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan.&nbsp;

Vietnam joins BRICS as partner country: Here’s why its inclusion matters

US President Donald Trump has declared BRICS dead, and this comes just months after repeatedly threatening 100% tariffs on its members over de-dollarization efforts. But why is Trump so concerned about BRICS? Why does the US see any move away from the dollar as a direct threat? And where does India stand in this evolving economic battle?

Why de-dollarisation worries Trump?

US President Donald Trump has declared BRICS "Dead". This comes just months after repeatedly threatening 100% tariffs on its members over "de-dollarization" efforts. But why is Trump so concerned about BRICS? Why does the US see any move away from the dollar as a direct threat? And where does India stand in this evolving economic battle?

The Geopolitics of Currency: Why the dollar still rules

US President Donald Trump has warned BRICS member countries against replacing the US dollar as a reserve currency. Trump reaffirmed his 100% tariff threat, which he had made weeks after winning the election. In a statement on Truth Social, Trump emphasized that his administration requires a commitment from BRICS nations to neither create a new currency nor support any other currency to replace the US dollar. If they fail to comply, they will face 100% tariffs. Watch in for more details!

Donald Trump warns BRICS nations against new currency

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) warned BRICS nations and threatened them with 100 per cent tariffs on their exports for replacing the US dollar as the reserve currency.
The US President had made a similar statement right after winning the November 2024 elections.
<h2 dir="ltr">Trump threatens with 100 per cent tariffs</h2>
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, &ldquo;The idea that the BRICS Countries are trying to move away from the Dollar, while we stand by and watch, is OVER."
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"We are going to require a commitment from these seemingly hostile Countries that they will neither create a new BRICS Currency, nor back any other Currency to replace the mighty US Dollar or, they will face 100% tariffs, and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US Economy," the post added.
In a scathing attack, Trump dared BRICS countries to "go find another sucker nation," emphasizing that the US dollar's dominance in international trade is unshakeable.&nbsp;
&ldquo;They can go find another sucker Nation. There is no chance that BRICS will replace the U.S. Dollar in International Trade, or anywhere else, and any Country that tries should say hello to Tariffs, and goodbye to America!&rdquo; he said.
<h2 dir="ltr">BRICS nations aim to reduce their dependence on US dollar</h2>
The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have long sought to decrease their reliance on the US dollar. Although they don't share a common currency, BRICS countries have been actively promoting trade in their local currencies, aiming to reduce their dependence on the American dollar.
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The call for de-dollarization gained momentum at the 15th BRICS Summit in 2023 and the June 2024 BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in Russia, where member states advocated for using local currencies in bilateral and multilateral trade.&nbsp;
However, the US dollar's widespread use in international transactions, foreign exchange reserves, and debt issuance continues to cement its position as the global reserve currency. Also, Trump intends to ensure that, even if it means arm-twisting nations by using the threat of crippling tariffs.
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: US President Donald Trump threatens BRICS nations with 100 per cent tariffs, escalating tensions over their move to replace the US dollar as the global reserve currency.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Jan 30) warned BRICS nations and threatened them with 100 per cent tariffs on their exports for replacing the US dollar as the reserve currency. The US President had made a similar statement right after winning the November 2024 elections. Trump threatens with 100 per cent tariffs In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “The idea that the BRICS Countries are trying to move away from the Dollar, while we stand by and watch, is OVER." Also read | Rescue efforts intensify in Japan to reach driver trapped in sinkhole for days "We are going to require a commitment from these seemingly hostile Countries that they will neither create a new BRICS Currency, nor back any other Currency to replace the mighty US Dollar or, they will face 100% tariffs, and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US Economy," the post added. In a scathing attack, Trump dared BRICS countries to "go find another sucker nation," emphasizing that the US dollar's dominance in international trade is unshakeable. “They can go find another sucker Nation. There is no chance that BRICS will replace the U.S. Dollar in International Trade, or anywhere else, and any Country that tries should say hello to Tariffs, and goodbye to America!” he said. BRICS nations aim to reduce their dependence on US dollar The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have long sought to decrease their reliance on the US dollar. Although they don't share a common currency, BRICS countries have been actively promoting trade in their local currencies, aiming to reduce their dependence on the American dollar. Also read | Donald Trump criticises journalist after she grills him for ‘blaming’ Democrats, DEI policies for Washington plane crash The call for de-dollarization gained momentum at the 15th BRICS Summit in 2023 and the June 2024 BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in Russia, where member states advocated for using local currencies in bilateral and multilateral trade. However, the US dollar's widespread use in international transactions, foreign exchange reserves, and debt issuance continues to cement its position as the global reserve currency. Also, Trump intends to ensure that, even if it means arm-twisting nations by using the threat of crippling tariffs. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump threatens BRICS nation with 100 pc tariffs for replacing US dollar

The big question on everyone's mind is Trump's threat of tariffs as he takes office on Monday. His economic team has made it clear the tariffs will come only gradually, however, his threats are setting off concerns on global supply chains. Take a look at this report to understand what those threats mean for India and China...

Trump Announces Trading 'Overhaul', Warns Of 100% Tariffs On BRICS Nations

Indonesia will formally join BRICS as a full member, Brazil's government said on Monday, further expanding the group of major emerging economies that also includes Russia, India, China and South Africa.
Indonesia's foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday that it welcomed the announcement and that "BRICS membership is a strategic way to increase collaboration and partnership with other developing nations."
Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous nation, had previously expressed its desire to join the group as a means of strengthening emerging countries and furthering the interests of the so-called Global South.
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Brazil, which holds the bloc's presidency in 2025, said in a statement that member states approved Indonesia's entry by consensus as part of an expansion push initially endorsed at the 2023 BRICS summit in Johannesburg.
The South American nation noted that Jakarta's bid got the green light from the bloc in 2023 but the Southeast Asian country asked to join following the presidential election held last year. President Prabowo Subianto took office in October.
"Indonesia shares with the other members of the group support for the reform of global governance institutions, and contributes positively to the deepening of cooperation in the Global South," the Brazilian government said.
The BRICS group also includes Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous nation, had previously expressed its desire to join the group as a means of strengthening emerging countries

Indonesia will formally join BRICS as a full member, Brazil's government said on Monday, further expanding the group of major emerging economies that also includes Russia, India, China and South Africa. Indonesia's foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday that it welcomed the announcement and that "BRICS membership is a strategic way to increase collaboration and partnership with other developing nations." Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous nation, had previously expressed its desire to join the group as a means of strengthening emerging countries and furthering the interests of the so-called Global South. Also read: Brazil's Lula returns to regular duties after brain surgery Brazil, which holds the bloc's presidency in 2025, said in a statement that member states approved Indonesia's entry by consensus as part of an expansion push initially endorsed at the 2023 BRICS summit in Johannesburg. The South American nation noted that Jakarta's bid got the green light from the bloc in 2023 but the Southeast Asian country asked to join following the presidential election held last year. President Prabowo Subianto took office in October. "Indonesia shares with the other members of the group support for the reform of global governance institutions, and contributes positively to the deepening of cooperation in the Global South," the Brazilian government said. The BRICS group also includes Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

BRICS welcomes Indonesia as full member, announces Brazil

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