Editor's note: Kirtan Bhana, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is the founding editor of the Diplomatic Society of South Africa. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

The 16th BRICS Summit marked a milestone in the evolution of global multilateralism, showcasing the Global South's growing influence and calling out the complacency of the West. Attended by over 30 developing nations, this summit solidified the collective voice of the Global South, a group increasingly aware of the double standard that has long favored the developed nations.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's remarks at the BRICS Plus leaders' dialogue provided a clear vision for a more equitable global order. The fact that the developing world continues to make strides in economic, social and technological advancements underscores the common purpose of these nations in their pursuit of a multipolar world.

Xi's first call to action was for peace and security. "We should come forward together to form a stabilizing force for peace," he stated, advocating for a strengthened global security governance system that addresses the root causes of conflict. He highlighted China and Brazil's joint efforts to issue a six-point consensus on the Ukraine crisis and the establishment of the Friends for Peace group to de-escalate tensions and pursue political solutions. Xi also emphasized China's pivotal role in the Middle East, having recently facilitated reconciliation talks between Palestinian factions in Beijing.

The Global South has long suffered from external interference that benefits the West, particularly nations in conflict-ridden regions. Xi's advocacy for peace and the launch of the Global Security Initiative in 2022 present a clear alternative: a system rooted in stability, mutual trust and the inclusivity of shared humanity. This framework challenges the Western practice of imposing artificial divisions and conflicts over resources, promoting a vision of global cooperation instead.

Inclusivity and equity were central themes throughout the dialogue, as Xi argued for a reinvigorated global development agenda that prioritizes the needs of the Global South. "We should make ourselves the main driving force for common development," he asserted, highlighting the need for the developing world to take the lead in shaping global economic governance.

Under the China-proposed Global Development Initiative, nearly $20 billion in development funds have been mobilized, with over 1,100 projects completed. These initiatives demonstrate the tangible benefits of cooperation among developing nations and the importance of ensuring that economic growth is shared by all.

The formation of the Global Alliance on Artificial Intelligence for Industry and the establishment of a BRICS Customs Center of Excellence showcase China's commitment to innovation and modernization as key drivers of development. These advancements are not just about boosting China's own economy but about enabling all BRICS and Global South nations to participate in the digital economy and emerging technologies.

The success of the BRICS Plus leaders' dialogue has highlighted the Global South's increasing influence in shaping the global agenda. The strengthening of BRICS cooperation enables more active and effective multilateral collaboration across various fields, enhancing the quality and level of dialogue and cooperation between countries. This contributes to advancing economic globalization, promoting a fairer international order, safeguarding regional and global security and stability, fostering civilizational progress and building a community with a shared future for humanity.

The dialogue was more than a diplomatic event; it was a declaration of the Global South's intent to take charge of its own development and to challenge the inequities of the current global system. Xi's remarks reflected a vision of shared prosperity, mutual respect and inclusive growth, underlining China's leadership role in fostering a just and fair global order. Western countries must confront the reality of a multipolar world in which the voices of the Global South can no longer be ignored.

With BRICS Plus emerging as a force for multilateralism and cooperation, the 16th BRICS Summit has set a new benchmark for global governance, one rooted in fairness, equity and a shared vision of prosperity for all. The success of the summit and its declarations signal a new era of globalization where the Global South is no longer on the periphery, but at the center of shaping the future of international relations.

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