Chinese President Xi Jinping has outlined five new initiatives aimed at expanding cooperation among BRICS countries, placing artificial intelligence, trade, digital development, advanced manufacturing and scientific talent at the center of China’s proposed agenda.

Xi presented the proposals while addressing Session II of the 18th BRICS Summit. His statement emphasized the need for BRICS members to strengthen practical cooperation while creating new opportunities in emerging areas of technology and economic development.

Push for Open and Inclusive Artificial Intelligence

The first proposal focuses on artificial intelligence. China said it is prepared to take a leading role in creating a BRICS AI open-source community designed to encourage broader participation in the development and use of AI technologies.

The initiative would support cooperation involving large language models, while specialized seminars and training programs would help participants exchange knowledge and technical expertise. The broader objective is to develop an AI ecosystem that remains open and inclusive.

Greater Trade and Investment Facilitation

Xi also proposed stronger mechanisms for facilitating trade and investment among BRICS economies.

China suggested creating a partnership involving BRICS special economic zones. Under the proposal, participating countries could develop intelligent portals and coordinate relevant policies, with the aim of creating new opportunities for cross-border economic activity.

China also announced plans to host a BRICS Forum on Trade in Services next year as part of efforts to generate additional momentum in economic and commercial cooperation.

Building a BRICS Digital Ecosystem

Another initiative targets the rapidly expanding digital economy. China proposed establishing a BRICS digital ecosystem cloud platform to support technological exchanges, digital skills development and closer industrial cooperation.

The proposed platform could provide a framework for countries to share expertise and strengthen their digital capabilities while helping industries adapt to technological change.

Cooperation on Intelligent Manufacturing

China’s fourth proposal centers on smart manufacturing. Beijing said it is willing to support fellow BRICS members in developing smart factories and working together on standards and norms.

The initiative seeks to encourage the adoption of advanced technologies in manufacturing and support the modernization and upgrading of industrial systems across participating economies.

Developing Science and Technology Talent

The fifth initiative addresses the development of skilled technical personnel. China proposed establishing a BRICS engineer cultivation alliance focused on jointly developing engineering talent and promoting mutual recognition of competency standards.

China also plans to launch a youth exchange program dedicated to scientific and technological innovation. The initiative is intended to encourage interaction among young people and contribute to the development of highly skilled talent for future technological growth.

Technology and Development at the Core

Taken together, the five proposals reflect an effort to broaden BRICS cooperation beyond traditional economic coordination. Artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, smart manufacturing and human-capital development are increasingly important to national competitiveness, while trade and investment remain central to economic cooperation.

Xi’s proposals therefore place emerging technologies and talent development alongside conventional economic priorities, presenting a framework for deeper collaboration among BRICS members in areas expected to shape future growth.