Russia, China oppose 'discriminatory sanctions' against BRICS: Putin

Tianjin: Russia and China have taken a united stand against what they termed “discriminatory sanctions” that obstruct the socio-economic development of BRICS member nations, Russian President Vladimir Putin has said.

Putin, who arrived in Tianjin to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, made the remarks in a written interview with China’s state-run Xinhua news agency. He said Russia and China are focusing on mobilising resources for critical infrastructure projects and strengthening BRICS’ capacity to address global challenges.

“Russia and China take a common stand against discriminatory sanctions that hinder the socioeconomic development of BRICS members and the world at large,” Putin said.

His remarks came against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump threatening BRICS countries with a 10 per cent tariff.

BRICS is an intergovernmental organisation comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Recently, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, Argentina, and the United Arab Emirates joined as new members.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to meet Putin on the sidelines of the SCO summit, scheduled from Sunday to Monday.

Putin also said Russia and China back reforms to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. He argued that a new financial system should be built on the principles of “openness and true equity,” ensuring equal and non-discriminatory access for all countries while reflecting their actual standing in the global economy.

“We seek progress for the benefit of all humanity. I am confident that Russia and China will continue to work together towards this noble goal, aligning our efforts to ensure the prosperity of our great nations,” he said.

During his visit, Putin will also hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and attend China’s V-Day parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory against Japan in World War II.

The Russian president expressed hope that the SCO Tianjin Summit would inject new momentum into the 10-member organisation, boost its ability to address contemporary threats, and consolidate solidarity across Eurasia.

“All this will help shape a fairer multipolar world order,” he noted.

According to Putin, the SCO’s appeal lies in its guiding principles: commitment to its founding philosophy, openness to equal cooperation, non-confrontation with third parties, and respect for each nation’s uniqueness.

“Drawing on these values, the SCO contributes to shaping a fairer, multipolar world order, grounded in international law with the United Nations at its core,” he said.

“I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we will give the SCO new momentum, modernising it to meet the demands of the time,” he added.