Xi Absent From BRICS Summit for First Time

Analysts said Xi’s absence may be due to Beijing’s political infighting and economic pressure, or an indication of friction among BRICS members.

Heads of state and government of member, partner, and external engagement countries pose for a group photo during the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on July 7, 2025. Pablo Porciuncula/AFP via Getty Images

The 17th summit of BRICS leaders closed in Rio de Janeiro on July 7, with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, leader of the bloc’s biggest economy, absent for the first time.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang attended the two-day gathering on Xi’s behalf.