Xi Jinping to miss BRICS summit for the first time in history
- Xi Jinping has informed Brazil that he will miss the BRICS summit due to a scheduling conflict.
- This marks the first time he will not attend a BRICS summit since taking office in 2013.
- His absence is expected to create friction in China-Brazil relations and raise questions about the future of BRICS.
China has officially announced that President Xi Jinping will not attend the highly anticipated BRICS summit in Brazil, set for July 6-7, 2025. This marks a historic first absence for Xi, who has not missed a summit since taking office in 2013, including participating virtually during the Covid-19 pandemic. The announcement came as a result of a reported scheduling conflict and has been communicated to Brazilian officials. Historically, BRICS, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, was founded to enhance cooperation among major emerging economies. The decision to skip the event has generated mixed reactions, particularly in Brazil, where officials have expressed disappointment. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who has met with Xi twice within the past year, was hopeful for Xi's attendance as a reciprocation after his recent visit to Beijing in May 2025. Sources close to the Brazilian government indicated frustration regarding the lack of support from China during Brazil's presidency of the bloc. The BRICS grouping has been expanded to include new members such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, and the UAE, suggesting a growing influence among emerging economies. The dynamics within BRICS are becoming increasingly complex, particularly as countries navigate shifting global power structures. China's absence at the summit could lead to questions regarding the future direction and unity of BRICS as a coalition, particularly amid rising tensions in international geopolitics. As the summit dates approach, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has pledged continued diplomatic support for Brazil's presidency while stressing the importance of collaboration among BRICS nations. Furthermore, with the ongoing international crises and various geopolitical tensions impacting member nations, the relevance of BRICS will be under scrutiny as they attempt to maintain their role in fostering global stability and countering Western dominance.