BRICS still playing an important role in international affairs

This year, China assumes the rotating presidency of BRICS, the group comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. This presents a rare opportunity for the bloc to deepen cooperation in a wide range of fields, and thus, help anchor the international organization in a better position to tackle global challenges and uncertainties.

In his New Year message to the leaders of BRICS countries, President Xi Jinping said China remains committed to enhancing partnerships and ushering in an even brighter future for all. The ninth summit of the leaders of BRICS is scheduled to be held in Xiamen, a coastal city in East China's Fujian province, in September.

From January to September last year, the Chinese economy grew at 6.7 percent and it can still boast to be one of the fastest growing economies in the world. In the next five years, its total volume of imports is expected to reach $8 trillion, and accumulated overseas investments will top $750 billion. And over that period, Chinese are expected to make 700 million trips overseas.