Xi Jinping Offers AI, Smart Manufacturing Aid to BRICS Nations

China Proposes Technology Partnership for BRICS

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced a technology cooperation initiative for BRICS nations during the second day of the bloc's summit in New Delhi on Sunday, pledging support for artificial intelligence development and advanced manufacturing capabilities across member states.

Xi outlined five key initiatives designed to accelerate economic growth and technological advancement in the Global South, with two specific commitments drawing immediate attention: helping BRICS countries develop and deploy open-source large language models, and supporting the construction of smart manufacturing facilities.

The Chinese leader also committed to establishing training programs for young professionals from member nations, focusing on advanced technology skills and innovation capacity building, according to state news agency Xinhua.

Call for Unity Amid Global Tensions

Beyond the technology proposals, Xi used the platform to issue a broader appeal for solidarity among BRICS members, warning that geopolitical conflicts and disruptive international forces threaten the stability of global supply chains and industrial networks.

"A world without rules is like an intersection without traffic lights, where chaos and disorder would be inevitable," Xi stated, according to Xinhua's reporting. He emphasized that international regulations should be developed collaboratively and enforced uniformly across all nations, rejecting what he characterized as double standards in global governance.

The remarks reflect China's ongoing effort to position itself as a leader in multilateral cooperation among developing economies, particularly as Western nations tighten technology export controls and reshape supply chain relationships.

Why it matters

China's offer to share open-source AI technology with BRICS nations represents a strategic counter to Western dominance in artificial intelligence development. By providing access to large language models and manufacturing expertise, Beijing aims to build technological alliances that could reduce developing countries' dependence on U.S. and European platforms while expanding China's influence in emerging markets. The initiative also signals how AI capabilities are becoming central to geopolitical competition and South-South cooperation frameworks.

Technology as Diplomatic Currency

The focus on open-source models is particularly significant given ongoing debates about AI governance and access. While major Western AI companies have largely pursued proprietary development strategies, China's emphasis on open-source alternatives could appeal to nations seeking to build domestic capabilities without licensing restrictions or vendor lock-in.

Smart manufacturing support aligns with China's broader Belt and Road Initiative objectives, extending industrial modernization partnerships to countries seeking to upgrade production capabilities and participate more fully in global value chains.

These details were first reported by the South China Morning Post, citing Xinhua coverage of Xi's remarks at the BRICS summit.