Xi JinpingS Rumored Absence From BRICS Summit Sparks Speculation About His Role
Table of Contents
- Xi JinpingS Rumored Absence From BRICS Summit Sparks Speculation About His Role
- Possible Reasons for Xi’s Absence
- rumors of Internal Political Shifts
- Conflicting Signals and Uncertainties
- BRICS expansion and Geopolitical Implications
- Key Events and Potential Outcomes
- Evergreen Insights: BRICS and China’s Global Role
- Frequently Asked Questions About Xi Jinping and the BRICS Summit
Speculation is mounting over Chinese President Xi Jinping‘s rumored absence from the upcoming BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, scheduled for July 6-7. Premier Li Qiang is expected to led the Chinese delegation rather, mirroring his attendance at the 2023 G20 summit in India. This marks a departure from Xi’s consistent participation in previous BRICS summits, leading to questions about his current role and the underlying reasons for the change (1).
Possible Reasons for Xi’s Absence
While Beijing has not officially stated the reason for Xi jinping’s potential absence, conflicting schedules have been cited by a Brazilian government official (1). Though, this clarification has been met with skepticism, given Xi’s previous meetings with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, including Lula’s visit to Beijing in May 2025 and the G20 summit in Brazil in November 2024 (1).
Some analysts suggest that Xi’s absence may be linked to domestic challenges facing China, including a slowing economic recovery, a real estate crisis, and local debt pressures (1). Frequent inspections of local governments and emphasis on “safety and stability” indicate a focus on internal affairs and potential crises. Others speculate that Lula’s invitation to Indian prime Minister Modi for a state banquet after the summit may have influenced Beijing’s decision, with Xi potentially feeling sidelined (1).
did You Know? The BRICS nations represent over 40% of the world’s population and nearly a quarter of the global GDP [2].
rumors of Internal Political Shifts
The rumored absence has also fueled speculation about internal political shifts within the Chinese Communist Party. Some reports suggest that Xi Jinping may be facing unprecedented political pressure, with rumors circulating about a power struggle involving senior officials (1).These rumors include the possibility of Xi relinquishing some power at the upcoming Fourth Plenary Session of the CPC Central Committee in August, with a potential power declaration by a new leader during the September 3rd parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japan (1).
However, the Information Office of the State Council announced that Xi Jinping will review troops and deliver “important” speeches, suggesting that he remains in a position of authority (1). Analyst Dr. Zhang Tianliang suggests that holding the Fourth Plenary Session in August woudl indicate that Xi Jinping will not give up power (1).
Conflicting Signals and Uncertainties
Despite these signals, uncertainties remain. Wang Jian, a Hong Kong media person, notes that while xi Jinping’s ability to conduct a parade suggests his position is secure, there are signs of resistance within the party, such as the military newspaper’s silence on xi’s ban on alcohol (1). The investigation of Yu Wenming, former director of the State Management of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the absence of Minister of State Security Chen Yixin from a key symposium further indicate potential challenges to Xi’s authority (1).
Current commentator Tang Jingyuan believes that Xi Jinping may have already lost ample power and is merely cooperating with the acting (1). The upcoming Beidaihe meeting in late July and early August will be closely watched for further clues about the political landscape in China (1).
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on official announcements and personnel changes within the Chinese Communist Party for further insights into the power dynamics at play.
BRICS expansion and Geopolitical Implications
The BRICS summit is notably significant this year, following the group’s expansion in January 2024 to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates [3]. This expansion has strengthened the bloc’s influence on the global stage, potentially reshaping international relations and economic partnerships. the summit provides a platform for member states to discuss key issues such as trade, investment, and sustainable development.
How will Xi Jinping’s potential absence impact the dynamics of the BRICS summit? What are the long-term implications of the group’s expansion for global power structures?
Key Events and Potential Outcomes
The following table summarizes key events and potential outcomes related to Xi Jinping’s role and the BRICS summit:
| Event | Date | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro | July 6-7,2025 | Li Qiang leads delegation; Xi’s absence fuels speculation. |
| Fourth Plenary Session of the CPC Central Committee | August 2025 (rumored) | Potential power shifts within the chinese Communist Party. |
| Parade commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japan | September 3, 2025 | Opportunity for a new leader to declare power (if power shift occurs). |
Evergreen Insights: BRICS and China’s Global Role
The BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) have emerged as significant players in the global economy, challenging the dominance of traditional Western powers. china, as the world’s second-largest economy, plays a pivotal role within the BRICS framework, driving economic growth and promoting alternative development models. The group’s focus on South-South cooperation and reform of international institutions reflects a desire for a more multipolar world order.
China’s economic influence extends far beyond the BRICS nations, with significant investments and trade relationships across africa, Latin America, and Asia. The Belt and Road initiative (BRI), launched in 2013, aims to connect china with countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe through infrastructure development and trade promotion. This initiative has faced both praise and criticism, with concerns raised about debt sustainability and potential geopolitical implications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Xi Jinping and the BRICS Summit
- Why is Xi Jinping’s potential absence from the BRICS summit significant?
- Xi Jinping has consistently attended previous BRICS summits, making his rumored absence a notable departure that has sparked speculation about his current role and potential internal political dynamics in China.
- What are the possible reasons for Xi Jinping not attending the BRICS summit?
- Possible reasons include conflicting schedules, a focus on domestic challenges within China, and potential concerns about being overshadowed by other leaders at the summit.
- What is the BRICS group and why is it critically important?
- BRICS is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, a group of emerging economies that represent a significant portion of the world’s population and GDP. The group aims to promote economic cooperation and challenge the dominance of traditional Western powers.
- How might Xi Jinping’s absence affect the BRICS summit?
- Xi Jinping’s absence could potentially impact the dynamics of the summit, depending on the reasons behind it and the level of influence Premier Li Qiang is able to exert in his place.
- What are the implications of the BRICS expansion for global power structures?
- The BRICS expansion strengthens the bloc’s influence on the global stage, potentially reshaping international relations and economic partnerships and contributing to a more multipolar world order.
- What is the Belt and Road Initiative and how does it relate to China’s global role?
- The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a massive infrastructure development and trade promotion project launched by China in 2013, aiming to connect China with countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe. It reflects China’s growing global influence and its ambition to play a leading role in shaping international economic relations.
Disclaimer: This article provides news and analysis and should not be considered as financial or political advice. Readers should consult with qualified professionals for specific guidance.