• 05 Jul, 2025
• Faith Kegh
• No comment

Tinubu Arrives in Brazil as BRICS Nations Plan to Oppose Trump’s Tariffs.

President Bola Tinubu has landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to attend the 17th BRICS Summit. He was invited by Brazilian President

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in recognition of Nigeria’s upgraded status as a BRICS partner country—an elevation from its previous role as a guest.

Nigeria officially became the ninth BRICS partner in January 2025, following the introduction of the partner country category at the 16th summit held in October 2024. As a partner, Nigeria can now actively participate in BRICS meetings, contribute to discussions, and be involved in the drafting of official summit documents.

The BRICS group originally consisted of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. In 2024, six more countries joined the coalition: Egypt, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia. The current summit, held from July 6–7, 2025, is focusing on global governance reforms and enhancing cooperation among Global South nations.

  Response to Trump’s Trade Policies

BRICS leaders are expected to issue a joint statement condemning recent U.S. trade policies under President Donald Trump, who returned to office in January 2025. Since his inauguration, Trump has threatened both allies and rivals with new import tariffs. Letters notifying U.S. trade partners of new tariff rates are scheduled to be sent out on July 9.

While the final BRICS summit declaration is unlikely to mention the U.S. or Trump by name, it is expected to criticize the instability caused by protectionist trade policies. Diplomats from member nations are working on carefully worded language to avoid direct confrontation, particularly due to China’s recent efforts to ease trade tensions with Washington.

  Notable Absences

China’s President Xi Jinping is notably absent from the summit—his first time skipping it in 12 years. Analysts suggest various reasons for his absence, including recent meetings with President Lula, the presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as guest of honour, and concerns about appearing politically overshadowed. Premier Li Qiang is representing China in Xi’s place.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will also not attend in person due to his indictment by the International Criminal Court but is expected to participate via video. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian is another no-show, amid ongoing tensions following a recent conflict with Israel.

  Middle East Tensions and Broader Issues

BRICS members are still divided on how to address ongoing crises in the Middle East, particularly the wars in Gaza and between Iran and Israel. Iran is reportedly pushing for a stronger collective stance that goes beyond calls for peace and support for a Palestinian state.

Other topics on the summit agenda include artificial intelligence, healthcare, and greater collaboration among Global South nations.

The expanded BRICS bloc—with its mix of founding and new members—now accounts for about half of the world’s population and 40% of global economic output. While the increased membership strengthens the group’s global influence, it also introduces more complex internal dynamics.

Despite these challenges, Brazil’s government remains optimistic about achieving unity at the summit. Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira expressed confidence that BRICS can continue speaking with one voice on major global issues, including those involving the Middle East.

Faith Kegh

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