THE ACTIVITIES OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF BRICS

The article is devoted to the activities of the People’s Republic of China within the international integration grouping of the BRICS. The paper examines the history of the BRICS, identifies the reasons for China’s participation in it. It also explains the connection between the current policy of the People’s Republic of China and the activities of the BRICS. The importance of China’s active cooperation with grouping partners in the field of trade and investment policy, as well as in the field of humanitarian cooperation, is emphasized. The article identifies the main branches of China’s foreign trade with grouping partners. Statistical data on the level of China’s investment in partner countries shows that the People’s Republic of China is interested in BRICS cooperation. Moreover, the article describes the methods of application of soft force by China against BRICS integration partners.  The special attention is paid to the role of China in the BRICS in the era of COVID-19. It was important to emphasize the positive dynamics in the development of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and the BRICS member countries in the process of joint activities. The authors conclude that China, as a leader among the BRICS member states, is actively cooperating with its partners. The BRICS is important for China, not only for strengthening the country’s economic performance, but also for introducing its own ideas in world politics.