During the recent BRICS summit, President Xi Jinping made a notable reference to a literary work during his address. “We are currently in a period of significant global upheaval and transformation, facing crucial choices. Will we allow the world to remain in turmoil, or will we guide it back toward a path of peaceful development?” Xi posed this question on the morning of October 23 at the Kazan Exhibition Center in Russia during the 16th BRICS Summit.

When discussing the nature of these choices, Xi drew inspiration from the novel “What Is to Be Done?” by Russian writer Nikolai Chernyshevsky. He emphasized that “the protagonist’s unwavering will and passionate struggle in the book embody the spirit we need in these challenging times.” Published in 1863, the novel reflects the aspirations of progressive youth in Russia and stirred a consciousness among people to resist old forces. Xi has previously expressed a strong appreciation for this work and recalled how it profoundly impacted him when he first read it in his youth.

By invoking a literary work, Xi’s remarks carry significant meaning. Today’s world, much like the title of Chernyshevsky’s novel, stands at a crossroads, confronting the pressing question of “what should we do?”

As a key player in shaping the international landscape, the BRICS nations must consider how to navigate these challenges. Xi pointedly stated, “The greater the storms of our times, the more we must stand at the forefront, demonstrating unwavering determination, pioneering spirit, and adaptive strategies to transform BRICS into a primary channel for promoting unity and cooperation among the Global South and leading reform in global governance.”

The themes of resolve, courage, and strategy encapsulate both the boldness and wisdom required of these nations, while emphasizing their mission and responsibilities.

This year’s summit drew significant attention, particularly as it was the first meeting following the expansion of the BRICS group. As the countries, accounting for approximately 30% of global GDP, nearly half the world’s population, and one-fifth of global trade, face a complex and volatile global environment, Xi outlined five crucial areas of focus:

1. Building a “Peaceful BRICS,” serving as defenders of common security.
2. Creating an “Innovative BRICS,” leading in high-quality development.
3. Establishing a “Green BRICS,” committed to sustainable development.
4. Shaping a “Fair BRICS,” guiding the reform of the global governance system.
5. Promoting a “Cultural BRICS,” advocating for harmonious coexistence.

By elaborating on these five pillars, Xi not only articulated the role of BRICS in today’s world but also outlined a direction for high-quality development in BRICS cooperation.

He also addressed ongoing issues such as the protracted Ukraine crisis, calling for swift de-escalation, and stressed the need to address the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza with a call for ceasefire and efforts toward a just and lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue.

Xi highlighted the importance of adapting to the rise of the Global South, stating the need to “enhance the representation and voice of developing nations in global governance” and to promote an international financial system that reflects changes in the world economy.

He announced a series of new initiatives aimed at fostering BRICS cooperation and advancing global development, such as the establishment of various research and cooperation centers and opportunities for training a thousand educators and administrators over the next five years.

In a reflective moment, he revisited a question he raised in 2017 at the United Nations in Geneva: “What is happening in the world, and what shall we do?” At that time, he provided China’s answer by advocating for building a community with a shared future for mankind, emphasizing win-win outcomes for all. Today, during the summit in Kazan, he reiterated that commitment, declaring, “China is willing to work with all BRICS nations to usher in a new chapter of high-quality development in ‘Big BRICS Cooperation,’ joining hands with more Global South countries to promote the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind!”