The 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro concluded without the presence of the presidents of China, Russia and Iran. Russia and Iran were represented by their foreign ministers, and China by their premier.

The theme of this year's summit emphasised multilateralism and the upholding of international law, based on the Purposes and Principles enshrined in the UN Charter. It reaffirmed the central role of the UN in maintaining international peace and security, promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms and encouraging cooperation grounded in solidarity, mutual respect, justice and equality.

BRICS is increasingly positioning itself as an alliance of the historically oppressed. The list of members and partners continues to expand each year. In 2025, Colombia and Bolivia expressed interest in joining. Colombia pivoting away from longstanding American influence toward a more sovereign foreign policy in the past three years is particularly noteworthy.

Current full members include Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia,........

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