Xi Jinping to Miss 2025 BRICS Summit July 6-7 in Rio; Premier Li Leads Delegation, Putin Also Absent

Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend the 2025 BRICS Summit scheduled for July 6-7 in Rio de Janeiro, marking his first absence from the gathering since taking office in 2013. The Chinese government informed Brazil of Xi's nonattendance, citing a scheduling conflict as the official reason. Premier Li Qiang, who recently attended the G20 summit in India, is expected to lead the Chinese delegation in Xi's place. Reports suggest that Beijing's decision may be influenced by diplomatic sensitivities, including Brazil hosting a state dinner for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which could have complicated Xi's participation.

Alongside Xi, Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be physically present at the summit, participating only via video link. The absence of these key leaders comes as the BRICS nations seek to address global economic challenges and navigate tensions related to U.S. policies under President Donald Trump. The summit will focus on issues such as global governance reform and cooperation among Global South countries. Despite the absence of Xi and Putin, analysts indicate that China's decision does not signify a retreat from the BRICS coalition. The 2025 summit is notable for being held in Brazil under its presidency of the bloc, and includes 11 member and partner countries.