Why Xi Jinping Skipped the BRICS Summit for the First Time
For the first time since taking power, Chinese President Xi Jinping is absent from a major BRICS summit. His decision not to attend the 2025 BRICS Leaders’ Meeting in Rio de Janeiro has raised eyebrows—and questions about what this means for the group’s future and China’s role on the world stage.
This surprising move comes at a pivotal moment for BRICS, which has just expanded its membership and now includes Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE, alongside founding members Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. But with global trade tensions, economic uncertainty, and shifting alliances in full swing, Xi’s absence couldn’t come at a more sensitive time.
China Sends Li Qiang Instead—Here’s Why
Instead of Xi, China sent Premier Li Qiang, the country’s second-in-command. While the move may look like a downgrade in commitment, analysts suggest it reflects China’s domestic priorities and the current international climate—not a snub.
Xi has been focused on stabilizing China’s slowing economy, navigating rising tensions with the US, and preparing for a crucial political conclave later this year. With low expectations for breakthroughs at this BRICS summit, it made strategic sense for him to delegate.
China is also actively addressing new US trade tariffs and energy concerns. Li’s presence allows Beijing to stay engaged on key topics like oil security and digital currency adoption without drawing attention away from Xi’s domestic agenda.
A Shift in the BRICS Spotlight
Xi isn’t the only leader missing from Rio. Russian President Vladimir Putin, facing an ICC arrest warrant, is attending virtually—just like in 2023. That absence leaves space for other leaders to take center stage, especially Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is attending in person and making a concurrent state visit to Brazil.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is also present, along with newcomers like Indonesia’s Prabowo Subianto, giving fresh weight to a summit that now includes 10 core member nations and several observers.
Despite Xi’s physical absence, the foundations of China’s influence within BRICS remain strong. Beijing continues to advocate for a world order less reliant on Western institutions, and BRICS is central to that goal.
Behind the Scenes: Energy, Trade, and Digital Currency
Though Xi isn’t in Rio, China’s objectives are still on the table. Premier Li is expected to lead discussions on expanding the use of China’s digital yuan for BRICS trade and strengthening energy cooperation with oil-exporting members.
China also remains committed to reducing reliance on the US dollar, a shared goal among countries like Russia and Iran, which are heavily sanctioned by the US. These discussions are likely to gain momentum even without Xi in the room.
However, a proposed common BRICS currency—floated by Brazilian President Lula in 2023—appears unlikely to progress. The idea faces pushback from both inside and outside the group, particularly after US President Donald Trump threatened 100% tariffs on BRICS countries promoting a rival currency.
BRICS at a Crossroads: Multipolar Dreams, Real-World Hurdles
The expansion of BRICS to 10 members reflects a growing appetite for a multipolar global system. But the group’s diversity in politics, economies, and foreign policy goals also poses challenges to unity.
A joint statement last month condemned strikes against member Iran, but stopped short of naming the US or Israel. This illustrates BRICS’ struggle to present a united front on key issues.
Still, BRICS remains attractive to nations frustrated with Western dominance. Calls for trade in local currencies and reduced dollar dependence continue to unite members—especially as US trade and foreign policy become more unpredictable.
What Xi’s Absence Really Tells Us
Xi’s decision to skip the summit isn’t a signal of retreat—it’s a sign of strategic focus. China is recalibrating, not disengaging. In fact, Xi met with Brazilian President Lula just months ago and signed major agreements. He’s already laid groundwork for continued cooperation.
With Li Qiang representing China in Rio, Beijing still has a strong voice at the table. Observers believe Xi’s foreign policy priorities—deepening ties with the Global South, promoting de-dollarization, and countering Western influence—are all aligned with BRICS’ future direction.
Xi might be absent, but China’s presence remains commanding.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for the latest updates on global power shifts and BRICS diplomacy.
