INTERNATIONAL: Xi’s BRICS No-Show: Absence Fuels Speculation
Unprecedented Absence at BRICS Summit
Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, scheduled for July 5-8, 2025, marking his first absence since assuming office in 2013. Premier Li Qiang will represent China, as confirmed by Beijing. This development has sparked curiosity, given Xi’s consistent presence at prior summits.
Context of the Summit
The BRICS alliance, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The summit follows a significant meeting between Xi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kazan, Russia, in 2024, which addressed bilateral tensions. Modi is set to attend the Rio summit, but Xi’s absence alters anticipated diplomatic engagements.
Speculation Amid Reported Disappearance
Xi’s absence coincides with unverified reports of his “disappearance” from May 21 to June 5, 2025, fueling speculation about his political standing. Some intelligence sources suggest this could signal internal recalibrations within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), though others dismiss it as routine for CCP leaders.
Rumors of Leadership Transition
Unsubstantiated claims, including a CBS News Radio report, have speculated that Xi may have agreed to resign, with reformist Wang Yang as a potential successor. However, such reports lack official confirmation and are treated as inconclusive, with experts noting periodic absences are not uncommon for CCP leaders.
Official Narrative and Scheduling Conflicts
Beijing attributes Xi’s absence to a “scheduling conflict,” offering no further details. Diplomatic sources suggest Xi is prioritizing bilateral relations and domestic priorities, with Premier Li’s attendance signaling continued Chinese commitment to BRICS.
Implications for Sino-Indian Relations
Xi’s absence may delay anticipated discussions with Modi, following their 2024 meeting that eased India-China border disputes. The next opportunity for a bilateral meeting is likely at the SCO summit in China later in 2025, where regional dynamics may further evolve.
Global Perceptions and BRICS Dynamics
Xi’s no-show has raised questions about China’s engagement with BRICS, especially as the alliance seeks to counter Western influence. Observers note that Premier Li’s leadership at the summit may temper expectations for major strategic announcements.