Xi Jinping calls for peace in Middle East, says China ready to work with BRICS members
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday called for stronger efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region, saying China is ready to work with fellow BRICS members to help resolve conflicts peacefully.
Addressing the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, Xi said the ongoing war had inflicted serious suffering and losses on people across the region.
He stressed that continued conflict does not serve the international community's common interests.
Xi said China was prepared to work alongside other BRICS countries to play its part in advancing peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf, according to China's state-run Xinhua news agency.
His remarks come against the backdrop of continuing tensions and conflicts in West Asia, with the region remaining a major concern for the international community over humanitarian losses, security, and the disruption of trade and energy routes.
The Chinese president also highlighted the broader role that BRICS can play in addressing major global challenges.
His remarks placed emphasis on cooperation among emerging economies and developing countries at a time when conflicts and geopolitical divisions continue to reshape the global order.
Beijing to host 2027 BRICS Summit
Meanwhile, BRICS is set to return to China next year, with Beijing announced as the host of the 2027 summit during the ongoing gathering in New Delhi.
China has previously hosted the BRICS summit three times over the past two decades. Each of those meetings came at an important stage in the grouping's development and expansion.
The decision to hold the next summit in Beijing will once again put China at the centre of the bloc's discussions as BRICS seeks to strengthen cooperation among its members and expand its influence in global affairs.
The New Delhi summit brings together leaders of major emerging economies for discussions on issues ranging from international peace and security to trade, development and reform of global institutions.
Xi's participation in the summit is also significant for India-China ties, with the Chinese president's visit marking his return to India after several years and coming amid efforts by the two countries to stabilise bilateral relations.
The BRICS grouping has increasingly positioned itself as an important platform for the Global South, with members seeking a greater voice in global decision-making and international institutions.