The BRICS economic bloc is unlikely to emerge as a significant anti-American or anti-Western force due to inherent rivalries between its core members, particularly China and India. The bloc's growing membership, now including Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, is expected to introduce further complexities rather than unified strength.
India, hosting the recent summit in New Delhi, aimed for a smooth event despite existing disagreements with China on key agenda items. Chinese President Xi Jinping's objective was to project China as a responsible global leader, while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought a successful summit as host. Both leaders were anticipated to avoid public airing of grievances, including the recent border clashes between their nations, to maintain a positive atmosphere. China, slated to host the following year's summit, also benefits from a constructive environment.
Russia's participation aimed to garner diplomatic, political, and economic support for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Brazil, a founding member, sought to establish new economic ties and reaffirm its commitment to the bloc. However, concerns lingered about Brazil's future engagement, especially with the potential election of Flavio Bolsonaro, which some feared could lead to a withdrawal of commitment.
The inclusion of new members like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates has added new layers of tension to the BRICS agenda. While these nations were present, high-profile leaders such as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the UAE's Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan were expected to be represented by lower-ranking officials.
These internal dynamics and the competing interests of its members limit BRICS' collective clout and its potential to act as a unified challenge to American global leadership. The bloc's effectiveness is constrained by the ongoing strategic rivalry between China and India, two of its most influential members.