For the first time in more than a decade in office, Chinese leader Xi Jinping will be absent from the BRICS summit in Brazil, delegating Li Qiang to represent China's interests

Chinese leader Xi Jinping will not attend the BRICS summit in Brazil, a significant absence for a group that aims to counterbalance Western influence. Vladimir Putin will also be present only via video link. The summit comes at a crucial time of global economic uncertainty and domestic challenges for China. Observers point out that although Xi is not present, BRICS remains a priority for Beijing as it seeks to strengthen its influence in the Global South. The absence of the two leaders will put the spotlight on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other member states amid talks on de-dollarization and strengthening economic ties.