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September 9, 2025

BRICS Virtual Summit Strengthens Push for Intra-Bloc Trade Amid Global Protectionism

At the September 2025 BRICS Virtual Summit hosted by Brazil, President Lula da Silva urged member nations to unite against global protectionism, strengthen intra-bloc trade, and push for institutional reforms to create a fairer international order.

Leaders of BRICS countries convened virtually on September 8–9 in a summit hosted by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, where calls for greater economic solidarity and institutional reform took center stage. The meeting came at a time of escalating trade disputes and rising global protectionism, which member nations agreed pose a direct threat to the stability and growth of emerging economies.

In his keynote remarks, President Lula strongly criticized what he described as “tariff blackmail,” warning against the dangers of unilateral sanctions and protectionist measures imposed by advanced economies. He argued that BRICS must strengthen intra-bloc trade and financial cooperation as a strategic shield against such practices, insisting that the grouping should chart its own course based on sovereign equality and equitable cooperation. Lula’s appeal set the tone for discussions focused on reshaping economic relations within the bloc.

The summit placed particular emphasis on expanding trade in local currencies, promoting closer integration of national payment systems, and reducing dependence on external financial institutions. Leaders discussed the possibility of establishing a BRICS clearing mechanism to simplify cross-border transactions and agreed to increase the role of the New Development Bank in financing projects in infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital transformation. These measures were framed as essential to building resilience against global financial volatility and strengthening the economic independence of member nations.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar echoed these sentiments, calling for a global trading system rooted in transparency, fairness, and openness, while Russia and China reaffirmed their commitment to deepening financial and technological cooperation within BRICS. Delegates stressed that enhancing connectivity across agriculture, manufacturing, and supply chains would be crucial in reducing vulnerabilities and fostering sustainable growth.

Beyond trade and finance, the summit carried a strong political message. President Lula emphasized that BRICS must present a united voice in pressing for reforms at multilateral institutions such as the World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund, and the United Nations Security Council. According to Lula, existing global governance structures no longer reflect the realities of the modern world, and it is time for emerging economies to play a greater role in shaping decisions that affect the international community.

Expansion of the bloc also featured prominently in the talks. With countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Laos expressing growing interest in joining BRICS, member leaders welcomed the possibility of further enlargement, noting that it reflects the grouping’s increasing relevance in the global order. Lula underlined that BRICS remains open to partners who embrace the principles of equality, mutual respect, and genuine cooperation.

As the summit concluded, Lula urged member states to translate commitments into action, stressing that declarations alone will not be enough to confront the challenges of today’s shifting global landscape. He called on BRICS to move from dialogue to implementation, reinforcing its role not only as an economic alliance but also as a strategic platform that can shape a fairer and more balanced international system.

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