South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on BRICS nations to champion urgent reforms to the global multilateral system and forge a more equitable international order.
Speaking during a virtual Extraordinary BRICS Leaders’ Summit on Monday, Ramaphosa warned that escalating geopolitical tensions, protectionist trade policies and global economic disruptions are threatening development prospects across the Global South.
“We are, therefore, supportive of meaningful BRICS initiatives that improve the resilience of our economies as BRICS countries and those of the Global South and also strengthen the global multilateral system,” he said.
His remarks come amid mounting global instability, including trade wars, sovereign debt crises and disruptions in critical mineral flows.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has faced increasing pressure to reform as developing countries remain locked into low-value segments of global supply chains.
Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s support for WTO reform and urged BRICS to lead efforts that ensure trade supports inclusive development.
“BRICS countries must champion the reforms that are taking place at the WTO. We must redouble our efforts to ensure that trade supports development. Global trade must work for all of us.”
Calling for a move away from the current “firefighting mode” adopted by most countries in response to the US’ unilateral tariffs to strategic action, Ramaphosa urged BRICS to finalise the BRICS Economic Partnership Strategy 2030 and commit to removing non-tariff barriers.
The summit, convened by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, followed the July 2025 BRICS summit held in Rio de Janeiro where leaders adopted the “Rio Declaration” that called for the strengthening of Global South cooperation.
The BRICS bloc has expanded its influence over the years, now representing over 40 percent of the world’s population and nearly a quarter of global gross domestic product.
Ramaphosa highlighted Africa’s role in shaping global trade, citing the African Continental Free Trade Area as a cornerstone of regional integration.
“Our vision is of Africa that is the beating heart of global trade engaging the world not as a mere exporter of raw materials, but as a creator of value, a connector of regions and a catalyst for shared prosperity.”
JN/APA