Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has told the leaders of China, India, South Africa and Brazil that the growing influence of their Brics group will lead to a multi-polar world.
Addressing the summit in Johannesburg by video, Mr Putin said he opposed the sway exerted by the G7 and other western-led groups.
He is unable to attend in person because he faces an international arrest warrant over Ukraine.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the expansion of Brics, saying it would make global governance fairer.
Countries including Iran, Ethiopia and Algeria have expressed interest in joining. However, Brazil has cautioned against making the grouping an alternative to the G7.
A press conference planned for later has been cancelled with leaders locked in closed negotiations.
