Preview of the 2025 BRICS Summit in Brazil

Brazil will host a summit of the BRICS bloc of developing economies to discuss pressing topics like Israel's attack on Iran, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and trade tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Analysts believe the lack of cohesion in the enlarged BRICS may hinder its global influence. The summit's agenda is seen as a cautious approach to avoid attracting Trump's attention.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will focus on debates about artificial intelligence and climate change. Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend, and Russian President Vladimir Putin will participate via videoconference due to an international arrest warrant.

Debates in Rio de Janeiro are expected to be restrained compared to last year's summit in Russia. Brazil aims to keep the discussions technical, with a vague final declaration likely on conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Brazil's strategic priorities for the summit include global cooperation in healthcare, trade, climate change, governance for artificial intelligence, peace-making, and institutional development. The country wants to focus on less controversial issues to avoid Trump's attention and potential tariffs.

Despite notable absences like Iran and Egypt, the summit remains crucial for attendees amid global instability caused by tariff wars. It offers emerging countries a chance to seek economic alternatives and partnerships.

For Lula, the summit provides a break from domestic challenges and an opportunity to advance climate negotiations before COP 30 in Belem.

According to the source: AP News.