BRICS Leaders Condemn Trade War and Tensions in Middle East

## Overview BRICS is an influential intergovernmental alliance of major emerging economies, currently comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran[3]. Originally established in 2009 as BRIC (before South Africa’s 2010 inclusion), the group has rapidly evolved from a loose economic concept into a significant political and diplomatic forum for the Global South[2][3]. Its core mission is to amplify the voice of developing nations in global governance, challenge Western-dominated institutions like the UN, IMF, and World Bank, and foster economic, political, and social cooperation among its members[2][3]. ## History and Expansion BRICS was conceived as a counterweight to the G7, reflecting frustration with the perceived lack of representation for emerging economies in global decision-making[2]. Over the years, it has expanded its focus beyond economics to include political, security, and cultural cooperation[4]. The bloc’s expansion accelerated in 2024–2025, welcoming Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia as full members, with Nigeria and others joining as partner countries[1][6]. Today, BRICS represents nearly half the world’s population and a substantial share of global GDP[1][7]. ## Key Achievements BRICS has launched several notable initiatives, including the New Development Bank (NDB), which funds infrastructure and sustainable development projects in member states and beyond[3]. The group advocates for de-dollarization, promoting the use of local currencies in trade and exploring alternatives to the U.S. dollar-dominated financial system[4]. It has also issued joint statements on global governance reform, climate change, artificial intelligence, and public health, reflecting its broadening agenda[5][9]. ## Current Status and Strategic Focus Under Brazil’s 2025 presidency, BRICS is prioritizing deeper cooperation among Global South countries and pushing for reforms in international institutions

The **United States** is a federal republic and a global superpower, playing a leading role in economics, military strength, technology, and governance. It is a nation of approximately 348 million people as of 2025, characterized by its diverse population and dynamic economy[8][6]. Founded in 1776 following independence from British rule, the U.S. rapidly evolved into a major world power, especially after World War II, when its technological and economic investments solidified its global dominance[4]. Today, it remains the world’s preeminent military power, with 76% of Americans recognizing this status, while about half view it as the leading economic power globally, though China is seen as a rising competitor[2][3]. The U.S. government operates through a complex system that manages federal finances, taxation, social welfare programs, and trade policies. Recent legislative changes, such as the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the 2025 One Big Beautiful Bill Act, have shaped the tax landscape to influence economic growth, labor markets, and federal revenue[1]. Despite challenges like rising federal deficits projected to reach 6.9% of GDP by 2027, consumer spending remains resilient, and business investment is expected to grow steadily in 2025[5]. In governance, the U.S. is rated "Free" with a score of 84/100 by Freedom House, though concerns about democratic erosion and partisan conflicts persist[6]. Public trust and satisfaction with government services fluctuate, reflecting ongoing debates about policy effectiveness and institutional competence[7]. Technologically, the U.S. maintains a critical edge, underpinning its economic and geopolitical power. Experts warn, however, that technological dominance is not guaranteed indefinitely, emphasizing the need for adaptive policies and international cooperation to sustain leadership in innovation and global affairs[4]. Overall, the United States remains a pivotal force in global business, technology, and politics, balancing historic strengths with contemporary challenges in

China is not an organization but a sovereign nation and the world’s second-largest economy, playing a pivotal role in global business and technology. Since initiating economic reforms in 1978, China has transformed from a largely agrarian society into an upper-middle-income country with an average GDP growth of over 9 percent per year for decades, lifting nearly 800 million people out of poverty[2]. The country’s economic model initially focused on investment and export-oriented manufacturing but is now shifting towards higher-value services, domestic consumption, and low-carbon growth to address social, environmental, and structural challenges[2]. China’s government heavily directs industrial policy, promoting domestic innovation and technological self-reliance through plans like “Made in China 2025” and the 14th Five Year Plan (2021-2025). These initiatives target advanced technology sectors such as robotics, aerospace, new energy vehicles, biopharmaceuticals, and high-tech manufacturing, aiming to replace foreign technologies with domestic alternatives and expand China’s global market presence[3]. This industrial strategy combines state subsidies, preferential policies, and strict market access controls for foreign firms, shaping a competitive environment favoring national champions[3]. Despite solid economic growth—real GDP grew by 5.4% year-on-year in early 2025—China faces headwinds including demographic shifts, slowing productivity, a cooling property market, and global trade uncertainties. Growth is projected to moderate to around 4.5% in 2025 and 4.0% in 2026, with fiscal stimulus helping to offset some challenges[1][3][6]. Externally, China remains a major global exporter, with exports outpacing GDP growth in 2025[6]. Notably, China’s governance under President Xi Jinping has tightened control over civil society, media, and minority regions, drawing international scrutiny for human rights issues and repression, especially of Uyghurs and Tibetans[4][9]. Meanwhile, Chin