Chinese Premier Li Qiang has called on BRICS to become a driver of fairer and more effective global governance - with an emphasis on peace, development and the balance of power between the global South and North.

At the plenary session of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Li Qiang called on member states to take the initiative in reforming international governance. He warned that the existing global order is facing unprecedented upheavals and that BRICS should act as a voice of reason - to build peace, promote mutual understanding and advocate equality among nations.

Li announced the establishment of a research center for new-quality productive forces and a scholarship program to promote talents in industry and telecommunications. BRICS, he said, would strengthen inclusion and mutual learning among civilizations and become a driving force for global justice.

CMG