Xi Calls for BRICS Unity on AI, Warns Against Middle East Conflict

Xi Jinping addressed the BRICS summit in India on Tuesday, emphasising the need for member nations to strengthen partnerships in emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. The Chinese leader outlined a vision for using AI-driven innovation to accelerate industrial transformation across the bloc, signalling Beijing's commitment to positioning itself as a technological leader within the grouping.

In remarks that touched on global geopolitical tensions, Xi cautioned that ongoing conflicts in the Middle East were counterproductive to international stability and economic development. While stopping short of direct criticism of any particular nation, he stressed that military confrontation diverts resources and attention from pressing challenges facing the world, including technological advancement and sustainable growth.

The initiative proposed by Xi seeks to harness artificial intelligence as a tool for new industrialisation efforts across BRICS economies. The proposal aligns with China's broader strategy to lead global discussions on AI governance and development, particularly as Western nations increasingly scrutinise the technology's implications for security and ethics.

Xi's visit to India marks a significant diplomatic moment, coming after a seven-year absence from the country. The two nations, both BRICS members, have faced border tensions in recent years, making the summit interaction symbolically important for regional stability. The discussions underscore efforts by major Asian powers to chart an independent course on technological and economic matters amid broader US-China strategic competition.