China Defends BRICS as a Non-Confrontational Coalition Amid US Tariff Threats

On July 7, China responded to the United States regarding the BRICS group, which includes Brazil, Russia, and India, asserting that it is not pursuing a confrontational stance. This comes in light of President Donald Trump's announcement of an additional 10 percent tariff aimed at nations that align with the BRICS coalition.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry, represented by spokeswoman Mao Ning, reiterated that trade and tariff conflicts yield no victorious outcomes and that protectionist measures are not a viable path forward. Trump's comments indicated that he intended to send tariff warning letters to various countries but would revert to previously high import levies should agreements not be reached soon.

In addition to the tariffs, Trump expressed his discontent on social media, accusing BRICS nations of exhibiting "anti-Americanism" following their criticism of his tariffs during a summit in Rio de Janeiro. Originally formed two decades ago to serve as a forum for rapidly growing economies, BRICS has increasingly been viewed as a Chinese-supported counterbalance to American and Western European influence.

In defense of BRICS, the Chinese leadership characterized the group as a significant avenue for collaboration among emerging markets and developing nations, advocating principles of openness, inclusivity, and mutually beneficial partnerships. Mao emphasized that BRICS does not engage in confrontational dynamics nor target any specific country.