How technology is driving shared prosperity across BRICS

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for broader international cooperation on emerging technologies, saying that Global South countries should "work faster to evolve a consensus-based global AI governance framework, so that new technologies can light the way toward shared prosperity." Xi made the remarks on Sunday at Session II of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India.

During his speech, he proposed five initiatives on "greater BRICS" cooperation in areas of AI, trade and investment facilitation, digital industry, smart manufacturing and talent development.

The proposals come as China and other BRICS countries have been expanding practical cooperation in areas ranging from renewable energy to AI, turning technological advances into opportunities for local communities.

In Mauriti, a city in northeastern Brazil's Ceara state, abundant sunlight is being converted into clean electricity through a 425-megawatt solar complex built by PowerChina.

The photovoltaic power plant project began construction in 2023 and entered commercial operation in 2025.

It is expected to generate nearly 1 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually while creating jobs and supporting local economic development.

But for the local community, the impact goes beyond electricity generation.

More than 90 specialized training programs were reportedly provided during construction, helping local workers develop technical skills.

One of them is Vinicius Martins, a Mauriti native who studied information technology at a local vocational school.

Now a technical assistant, Martins joined the project in 2023.

"This project changed my plans for my career," Martins said.

Mauriti Mayor Joao Paulo Furtado said local workers received training to qualify for jobs at the Chinese company’s project and gradually developed into skilled technicians.

The influx of workers and related business activity has also benefited the city's economy.

Local businesses in housing, retail and catering have seen increased demand.