BRICS Summit Calls for Stronger Economic Cohesion
During an extraordinary virtual summit on September 8, 2025, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged BRICS nations to strengthen their coalition by removing non-tariff barriers and reforming multilateral institutions, reports 24brussels.
Ramaphosa emphasized that economic cohesion among member states would enable them to become a stable and predictable trading partner, crucial in light of escalating global tensions and disruptions.
He stated, “Our commitment to the sustainable overcoming of various non-tariff barriers would allow the BRICS to consolidate their position as a key player in international trade.”
The president criticized US tariff measures, claiming they foster “an increasingly protectionist environment” that adversely impacts the Global South, creating significant challenges for emerging economies.
In light of these developments, he noted that BRICS has worked to diversify trade and investment partnerships throughout Africa, Asia, the Persian Gulf, and the Americas.
Ramaphosa also called for urgent reforms of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and modernization of multilateral development banks to better align with the needs of developing economies.
He asserted that ongoing armed conflicts, the US-led trade war, and persistent underdevelopment pose serious threats to global security and economic stability.
“When the BRICS countries come together in solidarity to co-create solutions, we unlock tangible and mutual benefits for the entire Global South,” Ramaphosa stated, reinforcing the necessity of moving towards a multipolar world and reforming the United Nations for greater inclusivity and representation.
Initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS has recently expanded its coalition to include Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Indonesia, positioning itself as a strategic alternative amidst growing trade tensions and Western economic dominance.