Brazil
Source: brics.br

To present the main priorities of the Brazilian BRICS Presidency, the Finance Pillar held a meeting with civil society on March 24 in Rio de Janeiro. The proposals presented to the population include larger investments in climate funds and the coordination of reforms of the international monetary and financial system.

According to Professor Ana Garcia, a researcher from the BRICS Policy Center, BRICS negotiations have historically been restricted to member countries, with little space for social participation. She noted that this reality has been changing in the last few years with the introduction of social participation mechanisms. “With the return of the presidency to Brasil, and following the experience with the G20 Social, the Brazilian government is more open to creating information spaces. Civil society participation is more frequent, with spaces for transparency and the sharing of information about the demands, agendas, and social struggles.”

Brasil has assumed the BRICS presidency for the fourth time since its establishment in 2001. The group is composed of Brasil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates in the category of member countries. Other nations that participate in the bloc as guests and partners will also have representatives taking part in the BRICS Leaders Summit in July, Rio de Janeiro.

BRICS is divided into various pillars that discuss multiple themes of interest for the emerging economies, including labor, artificial intelligence, global governance reform, and climate change. This year, more than 100 meetings engaging representatives from the member countries are expected to occur.

According to the researcher, the meeting promoted by the Finance Pillar with civil society in Rio de Janeiro helps bring populations closer to the issues currently being discussed by member countries. One of the priorities presented at the event was the proposal to reform the international monetary and financial system and to facilitate trade and investment among BRICS countries. The idea is to strengthen negotiations among bloc members through transactions conducted in their national currencies, which could reduce dependency on the dollar.

During the initial debates, the Pillar explained its intention to expand the New Development Bank (NDB), one of the main development banks of the Global South, responsible for financing infrastructure projects in several countries. Other goals mentioned at the event with civil society representatives included the admission of new members and advancing dialogues on customs-related issues and public-private partnerships.

Flávio Lino, the executive secretary of Brasil’s National Movement of People in Situational Homelessness (Movimento Nacional de População em Situação de Rua /MNPSR), emphasized the need for engagement with civil society to be translated into public policies. “Being present in this space means bringing our experiences, hopes, and expectations that international development policies will truly reach people experiencing homelessness.”

According to a 2022 study by Participa + Brasil, over 4.5 million people are experiencing homelessness in the BRICS founding countries (Brasil, Russia, India, and South Africa). “BRICS addresses development, but development without the people is not the same thing,” stated the secretary.

Lino coordinated the sub-group on People Experiencing Homelessness during the G20 Social last year. The secretary told AGENC that the movement is preparing a document with suggestions to be submitted to the BRICS Finance Pillar. Among the possible proposals is the creation of an international fund for housing and social assistance.

In addition to leading the BRICS this year, Brasil will also preside over COP30, which will take place in Belém, the capital of the state of Pará. Brasil has been working to bring environmental issues and pathways toward a more sustainable economy to the BRICS agenda. Green taxonomies, blended finance, and the energy transition are among the topics introduced to the group by the Brazilian presidency. According to a researcher from the BRICS Policy Center, achieving environmental alignment could pose a significant challenge among BRICS countries

Brazil
Source: brics.br

On Monday and Tuesday, May 12 and 13, the Brazilian ministries of Transport (Transportes), Ports and Airports (Portos e Aeroportos /MPor), and Cities (Cidades) took part in another meeting of the BRICS Infrastructure Working Group. The goal was to continue discussions on sustainable and resilient transport and to write the WG's joint declaration—a document to be presented to the ministers of State from member countries on May 14 at the Itamaraty Palace, in Brasília, Brasil.

Throughout this year, the group has been discussing best practices and solutions for urban mobility, more sustainable and inclusive transport, and the collective development of resilient infrastructure—capable of withstanding climate change and extreme weather events—while supporting a swift transition toward a greener and more socially responsible economy.

Delegates shared examples of projects and initiatives already implemented in their countries, illustrating how they are addressing current challenges. Key topics included clean energy and sustainable fuels, open skies agreements and connectivity, sustainable aviation, and a shared commitment to fostering partnerships and collaboration among member countries to exchange experiences and expertise.

The Brazilian Deputy Executive Secretary of Ports and Airports, Fábio Lavor, delivered the opening speech of the Working Group (WG) and emphasized that sustainability is a central focus of the Ministry of Ports and Airports (Ministério de Portos e Aeroportos /MPor). He highlighted, among other initiatives, the decarbonization projects for Brazilian ports, maritime transport, and the progress in adopting sustainable fuels in aviation.

“Climate change has had significant impacts in our country, as seen in the floods in Rio Grande do Sul and the drought in the rivers of the Northern region. Our goal is to provide BRICS countries with tools and protocols for rapid responses to extreme events,” he stated.

Regarding multilateral agreements to enhance connectivity among BRICS countries, Lavor emphasized the importance of creating new air transport routes for both passengers and cargo within the group's member states. "There is significant potential to intensify trade, business, tourism, educational, and cultural exchanges — but, most importantly, social exchanges — among our countries. We must work to strengthen these ties further," he emphasized.

Brazil
Source: brics.br

On Wednesday (14), Brasil hosted the 2nd BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Transport, convening authorities from member countries to discuss strategic priorities for the future of mobility and infrastructure. The meeting concluded with the signing of a Joint Declaration, reaffirming the group’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in the transport sector as a catalyst for economic growth, connectivity, sustainability, and development.

Under Brasil’s presidency of the group in 2025, the Declaration outlined six key areas of focus: sustainable and resilient transport infrastructure, decarbonization of ports and maritime transport, sustainable aviation fuels, air connectivity, sustainable urban mobility, and the proposed creation of a BRICS International Logistics Alliance. The meeting was jointly coordinated by the Brazilian Ministries of Ports and Airports (Portos e Aeroportos/MPor), Transport (Transportes/MT), and Cities (Cidades/MCid).

Opening the session, Cloves Benevides, Undersecretary for Sustainability at the Ministry of Transport, underscored the importance of collaborative action:

“Our shared ambition is clear: to use transport as a driver of economic growth, connectivity, and sustainable development. The topics discussed during this meeting are essential to ensure that our countries not only become better connected but also grow in a sustainable and integrated way. Sustainable aviation fuel and the BRICS International Logistics Alliance are examples of how we can innovate and lead in a changing world.”

Sustainable and resilient infrastructure

As part of one of the pillars of the Joint Declaration, the BRICS countries proposed the creation of the BRICS Institute for Sustainable Transport, Mobility, and Logistics (BISTML), which will focus on addressing infrastructure challenges through innovative solutions, promoting regional and interregional integration, and advancing climate-resilient transport systems by adopting environmental practices and clean technologies.

According to Mariana Pescatori, Executive Secretary of the Ministry of Ports and Airports, the establishment of the BISTML is one of the main outcomes of the BRICS Transport Working Group in 2025.

“It is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering innovation, sharing best practices, and addressing infrastructure challenges with environmentally sustainable solutions that are resilient to climate change,” Pescatori emphasized.

The Executive Secretary also highlighted the importance of advancing sustainable urban mobility, with a focus on energy transition, the promotion of active mobility, the renewal of public transport fleets, and the expansion of metro and railway systems. She emphasized that the aim is to create cities that are more equitable, livable, healthy, and less congested.

These topics will continue to be addressed throughout the year at key events, including the General Assembly of the BRICS More Cities and Municipalities Association, scheduled for May 26 to 28 in Maricá (Rio de Janeiro); the BRICS Urbanization Forum, planned for June 23 in Brasília; and during COP30, which will take place from November 10 to 21 in Belém.

BRICS International Logistics Alliance

Another priority pillar highlighted in the Joint Declaration is the strengthening of logistics integration among BRICS countries. In this context, the ministers acknowledged ongoing efforts to establish the BRICS International Logistics Alliance within the framework of the current BRICS Transport Working Group. The initiative seeks to bring together public and private sector representatives on a joint platform aimed at enhancing connectivity among member countries and strengthening their collective capacity to respond to climate-related disasters and other emergencies.

Newly integrated into the group, Indonesia underscored the importance of cooperation in the transport sector as a key driver of economic growth and enhanced global connectivity. During the Ministerial Meeting, Indonesia’s ambassador to Brasil, Edi Yusup, expressed the country’s enthusiasm for joining BRICS and reaffirmed its commitment to participating in joint initiatives. “Indonesia is very proud to be part of BRICS, especially in the transport sector. Increasing connectivity among members will help build stronger links, boost the economy, and attract new investments,” he stated.

Decarbonization of Ports and Maritime Transport and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

The Joint Declaration also highlights two additional pillars as strategic priorities: the decarbonization of ports and maritime transport, and the promotion of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Both efforts underscore the BRICS countries’ commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing the transition to a low-carbon economy, in alignment with the goals of the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

In the maritime sector, decarbonization is regarded as essential to ensuring cleaner and more resilient operations that respond effectively to current climate challenges. This approach reinforces the group’s alignment with the global climate agenda and the urgent need to reduce the environmental impact of the transport sector, with the ambition of positioning BRICS as a model of environmental responsibility.

The decarbonization of ports and vessels not only reduces emissions but also fosters economic growth and helps protect ecosystems. Deeper collaboration among BRICS countries can accelerate the development and deployment of green technologies, including zero-emission fuels and renewable energy sources for port infrastructure.

In the aviation sector, expanding the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) is a critical step, as aviation remains one of the fastest-growing sources of greenhouse gas emissions. For BRICS members—who collectively represent a substantial share of global air traffic and economic activity—joint efforts to advance SAF development offer a dual opportunity: to lead in the transition to sustainable aviation and to reinforce their commitment to the global climate agenda.

In this context, India’s Minister of Transport, Nitin Gadkari, emphasized three foundational pillars for sustainable development: ethics, economy, and ecology. “We need to protect the environment, and the carbon crisis the world is facing is a critical issue. Pollution caused by the burning of waste is a major challenge. That is why it is essential to explore ways to clean the Earth’s atmosphere. This is precisely one of the missions of the BRICS meetings: how we can reduce global pollution, protect the environment, and preserve life through the use of alternative fuels and biofuels, especially in the transport sector and also in aviation, where we are already considering green solutions. This is extremely important for the future of the planet,” the minister stated.
BRICS Family

Russian Deputy Minister of Transport, Vladimir Poteshkin, expressed gratitude to Brasil for hosting the meeting and highlighted the importance of transport in today’s global context. He noted that transportation is vital for connecting people and driving economic development. “Many people around the world enjoy traveling from one place to another. That is why it is so important to organize railways, land, and maritime transport. This is fundamental for the economy of our countries and for communication among them.”

For Poteshkin, the BRICS meeting provides a valuable platform for member countries to showcase their progress and foster exchanges on strategic issues. “From today, we are confident that the purpose of this event is highly significant for everyone. The BRICS family is doing remarkable work to demonstrate to other nations how we are advancing discussions on the environment, economy, education, and other key matters. This is our opportunity, and the main idea is that we need to move forward together with all the countries in our BRICS family.”

Brazil
Source: brics.br

Bulletin BRICS Brasil #05 - Lula reinforces BRICS' role and advocates for multilateralism and new global governance during visits to Russia and China

During his engagements in Russia and China, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva highlighted BRICS as a driving force for the Global South, advocated for a multipolar order, established strategic partnerships, and promoted multilateralism and sustainable development. Listen to the report and find out more.

Reporter: In his visits to Russia and China, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva consolidated Brasil’s image as an important player in strengthening BRICS and advocating a new international order based on cooperation and the reorganization of international relations between various countries.

Lula: It is no exaggeration to say that, despite the more 15,000 kilometres that separate us, we have never been closer. Increasingly, BRICS will become an essential space for coordination in the Global South to build a fairer and more efficient multipolar order.

Reporter: This was President Lula’s speech to the Chinese president, Xi Jinping, highlighting the role of BRICS as an essential platform for articulation in the Global South and building a more balanced multipolar order. His passage through China was marked by progress on agreements in the realm of innovation, energy, health, and sustainable development. In Beijing, Lula reinforced the ties with Brazil’s main trading partner, promoting bilateral agreements that combine 27 billion reais in investment. During the Brazil-China Business Forum, Lula highlighted the partnership with China that goes beyond commercial interests and is decisive in tackling social, environmental, and technological challenges.

Lula: Over the past decade, the ties between Latin America, the Caribbean, and China have strengthened. China is already the second-greatest trade partner with the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and one of the most important direct investors in the region. The partnership with China is a dynamic element for the regional economy.

Reporter: Lula reaffirmed the Brazilian commitment to multilateralism and emphasized priority areas for cooperation, such as energy transition, food security, fighting poverty, and technology innovation.

Lula: Brasil is promoting the strength of multilateralism. Wanting to return to the protectionism theory is no one's interest, except for the one who proposed the idea.

Reporter: Before going to Beijing, the president was in Russia, where he took part in the celebrations for the 80th anniversary of Victory Day in the Second World War and met with President Vladimir Putin. The visit was marked by talks on trade, energy, and technology. One of the focuses of the talks was bilateral trade, which, in 2024, reached an all-time high of 12.4 billion dollars.

Lula: My visit here is to discuss trade, to try to balance it out, because we are working with the idea that a good trade policy is a two-way street. We buy, we sell, more or less, in the same proportion that no one is harmed.

Reporter: Both in Russia and China, with signed agreements and advanced dialogues in critical areas for national development, the government showed that it seeks not only to balance its trade balance but also guarantee that the country has an active voice on BRICS and on the construction of a less conflictuous and more cooperative world.

Brazil
Source: brics.br

During his visits to Russia and China, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva highlighted BRICS as the driving force of the Global South, advocated for a multipolar world order, signed strategic partnerships, and promoted multilateralism and sustainable development.

In his meetings with Russian and Chinese leaders, Lula reinforced Brasil's role as a central actor in strengthening BRICS and advocating for a new international order based on cooperation and the reorganization of global relations among various countries. “Despite the more than 15,000 kilometers that separate us, we have never been closer,” said Lula to Chinese President Xi Jinping, emphasizing BRICS as a key platform for coordinating the Global South and building a more balanced, multipolar order.

Lula’s visit to China—his fourth official trip to the country and the third in the past two years—resulted in significant progress on agreements in the fields of innovation, energy, health, and sustainable development. In Beijing, he strengthened ties with Brasil’s main trade partner by promoting bilateral agreements totaling BRL 27 billion in investments.

The Brazilian president held meetings with executives from major Chinese companies in the energy and defense sectors, leading to strategic announcements. Notable highlights include a USD 1 billion investment by Envision in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) derived from sugarcane, reinforcing Brasil’s leadership in the energy transition. Additionally, an agreement with Windey Technology and SENAI CIMATEC was signed to establish a research and development center focused on innovation in renewable energy. This document marks a new step in bilateral cooperation on renewable energy and low-carbon technologies.

During the Brasil-China Business Forum, Lula emphasized that the partnership with China goes beyond commercial interests and is crucial in addressing social, environmental, and technological challenges. “It is with China that we will strengthen CELAC—a regional bloc that brings together all independent countries from Latin America and the Caribbean—to promote the region’s political, economic, social, and cultural integration as a space for political collaboration and coordination,” he said, reiterating the bloc’s importance in building new geopolitics of inclusion and solidarity.

Lula reaffirmed Brasil's commitment to multilateralism and highlighted priority areas for cooperation: energy transition, food security, poverty eradication, and technological innovation. “We seek mutually beneficial relationships that respect the sovereignty of peoples and promote social and environmental justice,” he stated.

In addition to advancing the environmental agenda—with a focus on COP30, which will be held in Belém, in the Brazilian state of Pará—the visit to China also yielded significant economic results. Since 2009, China has become Brasil’s largest trade partner. In 2023, bilateral trade reached a record USD 157.5 billion, with a surplus of over USD 51 billion for Brasil. Exports to China surpassed trade with both the United States and the European Union, underscoring the importance of this partnership. Key exports include soybeans, oil, and iron ore, while Brazilian imports from China comprise telecommunications equipment, vessels, and industrial machinery.

From January to April 2025, China remained Brasil’s main commercial partner, accounting for 26.5% of exports and 26.9% of imports. The trade balance was positive, with a surplus of USD 4.39 billion, resulting from USD 28.45 billion in exports (+12.2% compared to 2024) and USD 24.06 billion in imports (+26.1%).

The dynamism of the trade balance became even more evident in the first quarter, with nearly USD 39 billion in trade, according to the Brazilian Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services’ Statistics on Foreign Trade department (Comex Stat/MDIC).

The Brazilian mission to China also strengthened cooperation in the health sector with the establishment of the Brasil-China Institute for Innovation in Biotechnology and Infectious and Degenerative Diseases. This partnership between Brasil’s Eurofarma and China’s Sinovac is expected to position Brasil as a reference in advanced therapies, directly impacting the autonomy of the Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde/SUS) and generating qualified job opportunities.
In the pharmaceutical sector, another key development was the announcement of BRL 350 million in investments for the production of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients at new facilities in Rio de Janeiro. This partnership promises to reduce external dependency and ensure greater autonomy for the Unified Health System (SUS).

The Brasil-China Business Forum gathered over 700 business people and authorities, resulting in robust announcements. The automaker GWM will invest BRL 6 billion to expand its operations in Brasil, while the delivery platform Meituan plans to allocate BRL 5 billion to the Brazilian market, with an expected creation of 100,000 indirect jobs. CGN, a Chinese state-owned energy company, will invest BRL 3 billion in a renewable energy hub in Piauí, and Envision will lead the development of the first Net-Zero Industrial Park in Latin America. Additional investments include BRL 3.2 billion from the Mixue beverage network and the acquisition of a copper mine in Alagoas for BRL 2.4 billion.

The visit to China reaffirmed Brasil’s commitment to international cooperation and highlighted BRICS as a key instrument for addressing global challenges such as climate change and inequality. For the Brazilian government, Lula’s presence in China underscores the country’s readiness to lead the new green economy. The Brazilian Chief of Staff, Minister Rui Costa, emphasized that the signed agreements will drive technological development, talent training, and the creation of innovation centers in Brasil, focusing on solar and wind energy as well as energy storage systems—an area still underdeveloped in the country. The delegation also included Minister of Mines and Energy Alexandre Silveira, who stated that the visit strengthens a strategic relationship that has proven vital over the years for the growth and alignment of the interests of both nations.

Dialogues in Russia

Before arriving in Beijing, the Brazilian president visited Russia, where he attended the 80th anniversary commemorations of World War II Victory Day and met with President Vladimir Putin. The visit was marked by discussions on trade, energy, and technology, further strengthening ties with another key BRICS partner.

During the meeting with President Putin, Lula advocated for deepening trade relations between Brasil and Russia. A key focus of the discussions was bilateral trade, which in 2024 reached a historic high of USD 12.4 billion, although it still shows a significant deficit for Brasil: USD 11 billion in imports compared to USD 1.4 billion in exports. Data from January to April 2025 indicate that Russia ranked 41st in Brasil’s export destinations and 5th in imports, accounting for 0.4% and 3.71% of total trade, respectively. The main products exported to Russia included beef, tobacco, poultry, and non-roasted coffee. (Source: Comex Stat / Brazilian Ministry of Finance)

To address this trade imbalance, the Brazilian government aims to diversify commercial exchanges by increasing exports of agricultural commodities such as soybeans, coffee, and beef, while exploring new opportunities in strategic sectors like energy, mining, and technology. “A good trade policy is a two-way street. We buy and sell more or less in the same proportion so that no one is harmed,” said the Brazilian president.

Cooperation on energy

Cooperation on energy was one of the key highlights of the agenda in Moscow. Lula expressed Brasil’s interest in advancing collaboration with Russia in areas such as small-scale nuclear reactors—a strategic solution to ensure long-term energy security—and critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earths, which are crucial for the energy transition and the high-tech industry.

During an interview in Moscow, the Brazilian president also emphasized that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine was one of the main topics discussed in his conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Along with China, Brasil is part of a group of nations that has formed a coalition of countries willing to assist in the peace negotiations. “I told President Putin that we are ready to help with negotiations, as long as both countries involved are open to our participation,” he added.

In both Russia and China, through signed agreements and advancing dialogues in critical areas for national development, the Brazilian government demonstrated its intent to achieve equilibrium in its trade balance while ensuring that the country has an active voice in shaping a world with fewer conflicts and more cooperation. At a time when geopolitical tensions and trade wars threaten international stability, Brasil’s commitment to BRICS is driven by a focus on dialogue and the diversification of alliances, both as a political choice and a strategic necessity for multilateralism.

Brazil
Source: brics.br

Ministers emphasize solidarity, sustainable development, and joint actions in the 2025–2028 Work Plan. The group is now officially named BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Group. Listen to the full report for more details. Listen to the report and find out more.

Reporter: Representatives from the 11 BRICS countries gathered in Brasília for the Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management. During the meeting, the BRICS countries adopted a Joint Declaration, acknowledging that the increasing frequency and intensity of disasters, worsened by climate change, have caused negative socio-economic impacts such as rising poverty and setbacks in socially just development. The Minister of Integration and Regional Development, Waldez Góes, stressed the urgency of the environmental agenda and the need for cooperation among countries.

Waldez Góes: These impacts are even more acutely felt in our Global South countries. This is why BRICS cooperation is essential for strengthening multilateralism and fostering tangible solutions to our shared challenges.

Reporter: The Minister of Cities, Jader Filho, also highlighted the role of global partnerships in addressing climate-related risks.

Jader Filho: Our active participation in BRICS reflects our commitment to advancing public policies that strengthen resilient infrastructure and promote integrated actions to respond to disasters, consolidating our collective voice in the global agenda for resilience, social inclusion, and climate adaptation.

Reporter: The member countries also agreed to update the name of the group to better reflect its mission within the BRICS framework for multilateral cooperation. From now on, it will be called the BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction Group. South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe, highlighted the importance of solidarity and respect among nations. He emphasized the historic South-South partnership and called for responsibility in advancing global sustainable development.

Zolile Burns-Ncamashe: BRICS remains committed to solidarity, collectivism, and respect for multilateral institutions. If we continue to inspire other global bodies, we can contribute meaningfully to building a safe, peaceful, and disaster-resilient international order.

Reporter: During the meeting, the 2025–2028 Work Plan developed under Brasil’s leadership was officially presented and adopted unanimously by the member states. According to Wolnei Wolff, Brasil’s National Secretary for Civil Protection and Defense, the challenges faced by BRICS countries share similar characteristics, reinforcing the value of joint action.

Wolnei Wolff: There was a clear convergence of concerns and shared challenges, which not only highlights the value of South-South cooperation but also strengthens our belief that, with humility, mutual listening, and effective partnerships, we can reach solutions that generate real and lasting benefits for our populations.

Reporter: The meeting was led by Brasil’s Ministry of Integration and Regional Development (MIDR) and the Ministry of Cities, which work together to develop policies for urban adaptation and to strengthen local capacities in the face of climate change.

Russia
Source: mid.ru

Ladies and gentlemen,

Colleagues,

Friends,

Welcome to the grand opening ceremony marking the beginning of the 2nd BRICS Women’s Entrepreneurship Forum.

Without a doubt, today’s event represents a milestone for the BRICS countries’ business communities and our entire association, which increasingly plays a big part in global affairs.

We view BRICS as a focal point for coordinating interests of the World Majority’s leading countries, a key pillar of a multipolar world, and an important mechanism for advancing genuinely multilateral cooperation. I would like to emphasise that our joint work within the association is based on the principles of equality, mutual respect, and balance of interests of all participants.

The potential of BRICS has benefitted greatly from expansion. The BRICS countries represent nearly half of the world’s population, and their aggregate GDP makes up about 40 percent of global GDP in terms of purchasing power parity, more than that of the G7.

Considering this, it stands to reason that BRICS continues to attract the Global South and Global East countries that seek mutually beneficial partnerships and joint development.

Expanding comprehensive cooperation within the BRICS format is among our unconditional foreign policy priorities. We place special emphasis on supporting new ideas and pro-active approaches in the economy, ensuring financial stability, advancing digitalisation, and enhancing transport connectivity.

Women’s entrepreneurship is a key factor in achieving progress in these and other areas. Your determination, innovation-based approaches, and leadership create new prospects and open new horizons for expanding our respective economies and social spheres.

Today’s forum provides an excellent opportunity to exchange best practices, to establish and strengthen business contacts, and to coordinate specific practical cooperation projects.

The initiatives to be developed during the forum will be taken into account in preparations for the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7 and contribute to the collective efforts of our association.
I wish you engaging interactions, substantive discussions, and all the best. I am confident that, acting together, we can make our BRICS partnership even more effective.

Russia
Source: russiancouncil.ru

Entrepreneurialism has long been the heartbeat of economic progress, driving innovation, job creation, and societal transformation. The national mobilization of entrepreneurialism—the deliberate and systemic effort to harness and amplify entrepreneurial energy across a nation—has shaped the economic trajectories of global powers like the United States, China, and India. Over the past century, these nations have employed distinct strategies to ignite entrepreneurial ecosystems, often with remarkable success. How was all this achieved before economic theorems were popularised and every politician succumbed to economic intellectualism, all the while ignoring the root cause of entrepreneurialism?

In recent decades, the global undertaking by Expothon and its initiatives have globally influenced modernized versions of such thinking, developing protocols to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs), challenging conventional economic thinking. Amid ongoing global economic struggles and tariff wars, their ideas—now amplified through the BRICS bloc—offer pragmatic solutions to revitalize national economies. The following article traces the historical roots of entrepreneurial mobilization, explores its modernization, examines BRICS' potential under the National Administration and Mobilization of Entrepreneurialism (NAME), and outlines a path forward for nations to strengthen their economic foundations.

The United States: The Birthplace of Entrepreneurial Dynamism

The United States pioneered the concept of entrepreneurial mobilization over a century ago, creating a blueprint that others would later emulate. In the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries, the U.S. fostered an environment where risk-taking and innovation thrived. The Industrial Revolution saw inventors and entrepreneurs like Thomas Edison and Henry Ford transform ideas into industries supported by a culture celebrating individualism and ingenuity. Government policies – such as patent protections – incentivized innovation and land development, while infrastructure investments like railroads opened markets for entrepreneurs.

By the mid-20^th century, the U.S. government began formalizing support for entrepreneurship. The Small Business Administration (SBA), established in 1953, provided loans and resources to SMEs, recognizing their role as economic engines. Booming U.S. saw the rise of Silicon Valley, where public-private partnerships and venture capital converged to create a global tech hub. The U.S. demonstrated that mobilizing entrepreneurialism required individual talent and systemic support—access to capital and markets. This approach made the U.S. the world's most dynamic entrepreneurial economy, producing giants like Apple and Google while sustaining millions of smaller enterprises.

China: A State-Driven Entrepreneurial Surge

Despite Western critiques of communism, China will become the world's largest entrepreneurial nation in the coming decade. China's journey toward entrepreneurial mobilization contrasts sharply with the U.S. model, rooted in state-led initiatives rather than organic individualism. Special Economic Zones became testing grounds for entrepreneurship, offering tax breaks and relaxed regulations to attract investment and innovation. By the 1990s, China was mobilizing entrepreneurialism at an unprecedented scale. State-backed enterprises coexisted with a burgeoning private sector as millions of citizens launched manufacturing, technology, and retail businesses.

The rise of companies like Alibaba and Tencent reflects China's ability to blend state direction with entrepreneurial agility. By the 2000s, China's "mass entrepreneurship and innovation" campaign accelerated this momentum, encouraging startups and tech-driven enterprises. China's entrepreneurial ecosystem is a global force today, though it operates under tighter state oversight than its Western counterparts.

India: From Tradition to Transformation

India's entrepreneurial history is a tale of resilience and adaptation, shaped by its colonial past and diverse socio-economic fabric. For centuries, entrepreneurship in India was tied to caste-based occupations and family-run businesses, with trade guilds and merchants thriving in regions across the colorfully cultural lands. Deregulation, reduced tariffs, and foreign investment unleashed entrepreneurial potential, particularly in technology and services. The IT boom in cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad showcased India's ability to mobilize talent globally, with companies like Infosys and Wipro becoming household names.

In the 2010s, initiatives like "Startup India" and "Make in India" further encouraged entrepreneurship, targeting youth and SMEs. India's informal sector—comprising millions of small enterprises—remains a vital, if underutilized, component of its entrepreneurial landscape, highlighting the need for broader mobilization efforts.

Expothon: Redefining Entrepreneurial Mysticism and its Mobilization

In the early 2000s, Expothon – launched as a think tank – refined these protocols over a decade, advocating for SMEs as the backbone of national economies. The leadership limitlessly emphasized practical deployment over theoretical debates, urging governments to identify, digitize, and mobilize high-potential SMEs. Such ideas gained traction across 100 free economies, shared through weekly briefings with some 2000 senior cabinet officials. By challenging the "job-seeker mindset" prevalent in economic leadership, Javed pushed for a "job-creator mindset" that prioritizes entrepreneurial risk-taking. Expothon's global reach and pragmatic approach have made it a beacon for nations seeking to revitalize their economies through entrepreneurship.

The NAME Program: A Challenge to Global Economic Intellectualism

The National Administration & Mobilization of Entrepreneurialism (NAME) program, the protocols developed by Naseem Javed, a corporate philosopher and Chair of Expothon, emerged over a decade as a bold challenge to traditional economic intellectualism. While conventional economics often focuses on macroeconomic indicators—GDP, inflation, and trade balances—NAME prioritizes the micro-level dynamism of SMEs. It argues that economic progress hinges on mobilizing millions of small enterprises, equipping them with digital tools, and fostering export-ready innovation. NAME's protocols include upskilling exporters, reskilling manufacturers, and creating tax-free export windows to spur job creation.

NAME's critique of economic intellectualism lies in its rejection of one-size-fits-all policies. It contends that SMEs are not "small" but "embryonic giants" capable of transforming economies if appropriately nurtured. By advocating for customized, nation-specific strategies, NAME has sparked debates in global forums, urging policymakers to rethink economic development. Its emphasis on entrepreneurial "mysticism"—job creators' intuitive, risk-embracing mindset—contrasts with traditional economists' cautious, data-driven approach. As tariff wars and economic stagnation expose the limits of old models, NAME's focus on grassroots prosperity offers a compelling alternative.

BRICS: The Emerging Powerhouse Under NAME

The BRICS bloc—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, as well as Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE, and Indonesia following expansion—represents a seismic shift in global economic power. These nations account for over 40% of the world's population, 37% of global GDP, and significant commodity influence, including nearly half of global oil production. Naseem Javed foresaw this potential, noting, "BRICS has already created the largest pools of skilled citizens and SMEs in history—NAME can turn this into a global economic juggernaut." The NAME program aligns perfectly with the BRICS mission to amplify the Global South's voice, offering a framework to digitize SMEs, upskill workforces, and boost micro exports.

Under the NAME program, BRICS could become a powerhouse by leveraging Expothon's protocols to foster intra-bloc trade, reduce reliance on Western financial systems, and unleash entrepreneurial mysticism. Imagine BRICS nations collaborating on a shared digital platform, as Expothon envisions: "A Global Hub where SMEs across 100 nations trade ideas and goods freely—this is the future NAME delivers." With China's infrastructure prowess, India's tech talent, Brazil's resources, Russia's energy dominance, and the diverse strength of its new members, NAME could propel BRICS beyond symbolic gestures into a cohesive, prosperity-driven alliance, challenging Western economic dominance while inviting collaboration.

Trump: Navigating Global Economic Struggles and Tariff Wars

Today's global economy faces unprecedented challenges: trade disputes, rising debt, and technological disruption. Tariff wars, exemplified by U.S.-China tensions, have disrupted supply chains and stifled growth, particularly for SMEs reliant on exports. Meanwhile, public debt burdens—approaching $300 trillion globally—limit government abilities to invest in long-term solutions. Economic intellectualism, relying on incremental tweaks and theoretical models, has struggled to address these crises, leaving nations searching for actionable strategies. NAME's protocols offer a lifeline in this turbulent landscape.

By digitizing SMEs and connecting them to global markets, nations can reduce dependence on volatile trade relationships. Upskilling programs can prepare entrepreneurs for emerging industries like AI and green technology while reskilling manufacturers can boost domestic productivity. NAME's emphasis on micro-exports and micro-manufacturing aligns with the need for diversified, resilient economies. Unlike tariff wars, which create winners and losers, NAME's collaborative approach fosters mutual prosperity, enabling nations to thrive amid global uncertainty—especially within the BRICS framework.

Top 10 Issues Facing National Economies

Nations grappling with entrepreneurial mobilization face a host of interconnected challenges:

1. Bureaucratic Resistance: Overregulation and red tape discourage entrepreneurial risk-taking.
2. Access to Entrepreneurial Capital: SMEs often lack competent guidance over money and global access over local entrapments
3. Digital Divide: Many small businesses lag in adopting digital tools, limiting competitiveness.
4. Skill Gaps: Entrepreneurs need upskilling and reskilling to navigate the global age of competitiveness markets and emerging ideas
5. Market Access: Tariff barriers and trade disputes force quality and designability to export.
6. Economic Dogma: Traditional economic policies overlook the unique mindset needs of entrepreneurial mysticism
7. Youth Disengagement: Bureaucratic and unskilled teams at economic development block entrepreneurial youths
8. Infrastructure Deficits: unmatched mindsets never allow mental infrastructure to lead and fix the invisible problems
9. Intellectual Barriers: SMEs struggle to understand entrepreneurial mysticism, the power to create and solve impossible problems
10. Cultural Stigma: In most societies, failure is stigmatized, deterring entrepreneurial ventures.
11. Five Steps to Create a Mandate for NAME: To harness NAME's potential and strengthen national economies, governments must act decisively.

In turn, Expothon has outlined five key steps to overcome the current challenges:

1. Establish a National Mandate: Declare entrepreneurial mobilization a top priority, creating a dedicated ministry or task force to oversee NAME's implementation. This body should align trade associations, chambers of commerce, and SMEs under a unified vision.
2. Digitize SMEs at Scale: Launch nationwide programs to digitize 25-50% of high-potential SMEs within 100 days, providing subsidized access to e-commerce platforms, AI tools, and cybersecurity resources to enhance global competitiveness.
3. Upskill and Reskill Entrepreneurs: Develop training initiatives focused on export strategies, digital marketing, and sustainable manufacturing, partnering with national and global advanced bodies on quality production and designs while job-creator mindsets are in action.
4. Incentivize Innovation: Offer tax-free export windows for SMEs' first few million in revenues and provide access to dormant intellectual property. Subsidize MBA internships within SMEs to bridge the academic and entrepreneurial worlds.
5. Foster Global Collaboration: Create entrepreneurial visa programs to attract international talent and establish NAME hubs in regions like BRICS, ASEAN, and the African Union, sharing best practices and catalyzing cross-border trade.

The BRICS Manifesto: 10 Articles for Economic Transformation
Inspired by Expothon's pioneering manifestos, ten articles were established, guiding BRICS under NAME:

1. Identify High Potential SMEs: Equip 50% of such SMEs with digital tools within 100 days, unleashing hidden potential.
2. Upskill the Vanguard: Train global trade and upskill exporters within six months.
3. Reskill the Makers: Modernize quality, design, and manufacturing with intense programs and sustainable practices.
4. Tax-Free Horizons: Offer SMEs tax-free export windows for their first $5-10 million in revenue.
5. Youth Ignition: Launch entrepreneurial immersion for millions of youths across BRICS nations to create oceans of SMEs.
6. Global Hub Creation: Establish a BRICS SME trade platform, as Expothon urges, "to connect 100 nations."
7. Micro-Export Boom: Triple micro-exports, micro-trade, and micro-manufacturing within 1000 days with NAME
8. Innovation Commons: Open all dormant IP free to SMEs, sparking a creativity surge, with royalties only after commercial success
9. Intra-Bloc Synergy: Boost BRICS trade through shared entrepreneurial ecosystems and new global economic thinking.
10. Mysticism Unleashed: Cultivate the job-creator mindset, echoing Expothon's call: "Entrepreneurialism, not economics, saves nations."

BRICS Nations: Profiles of Potential Players

Brazil: The Resource Titan

Brazil's vast natural and agricultural resources might make it a cornerstone of the BRICS economy. Expothon's audits reveal untapped SME potential in agribusiness and green tech. Naseem Javed notes, "Brazil's youth can turn forests into innovation hubs, not just farms." NAME could digitize rural enterprises, upskill exporters, and triple micro-exports, positioning Brazil as a sustainability leader.

Russia: The Energy Vanguard

Russia's energy dominance and skilled workforce are primed for transformation. "Digitize SMEs and Russia becomes an entrepreneurial bear," Javed quips. NAME's protocols could reskill manufacturers, boost tech exports, and diversify beyond oil, amplifying Russia's BRICS clout with a modernized economic base.

India: The Tech Trailblazer

India's IT prowess and youthful demographic are entrepreneurial goldmines. Expothon's vision of a "Global Hub" resonates here, connecting SMEs to 100 markets. Javed envisions, "India's startups can lead BRICS into the digital age." NAME could upskill millions, bridging the informal sector to global trade.

China: The Scale Sovereign

China's manufacturing scale and infrastructure mastery anchor BRICS. "SMEs are China's next dragons—NAME unleashes them," Javed asserts. By digitizing small firms and reskilling workers, China could pivot from mass production to innovation, driving intra-BRICS trade to new heights.

South Africa: The Gateway Prize

South Africa's strategic position and mineral wealth offer BRICS a foothold in Africa. Expothon's protocols could digitize SMEs, as Javed urges: "Turn mines into minds." NAME's upskilling and micro-export focus could make South Africa a trade hub, linking BRICS to the continent's potential.

Egypt: The Nile Nexus

Egypt's historical trade legacy and growing population joined BRICS in 2024. "Egypt's SMEs can bridge Africa and Asia—NAME is the key," Javed predicts. Digitization and upskilling could revive its entrepreneurial spirit, boosting micro-exports and regional influence.

Ethiopia: The Rising Star

Ethiopia's rapid growth and youthful workforce energize BRICS. Expothon sees "a nation of job-creators waiting to soar." NAME could digitize SMEs, upskill exporters, and leverage Ethiopia's agricultural base, making it a manufacturing hub for Africa.

Iran: The Resilient Rebel

Iran's oil wealth and skilled populace defy sanctions. "NAME turns isolation into innovation," Javed declares. Digitizing SMEs and reskilling manufacturers could shift Iran toward tech exports, strengthening BRICS' commodity and intellectual power.

United Arab Emirates: The Visionary Vault

The UAE's trade hubs and diversification vision bolster BRICS. As Expothon notes, "SMEs here can spark a new GCC-wide blossom." NAME could upskill entrepreneurs, amplifying micro-exports and intra-bloc synergy.

Indonesia: The Archipelago Ace

Joining in 2025, Indonesia's vast market and resources enrich BRICS. "Digitize its SMEs, and islands become economic stars," Expothon envisions. NAME's protocols could upskill its workforce, triple exports, and cement Indonesia as a BRICS trade titan.

Conclusion: BRICS as a Catalyst for Global Prosperity

The ascent of BRICS—now encompassing Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE, and Indonesia—marks a transformative moment in the history of national mobilization of entrepreneurialism, not as a rival to the United States but as a vibrant partner in a reimagined global economy. Far from threatening American interests, BRICS offers a dynamic opportunity for the U.S. to engage with a bloc representing over 40% of the world's population and 37% of global GDP, fostering trade synergies that transcend tariff wars.

The NAME program, birthed from Expothon's visionary work, amplifies this potential by digitizing SMEs, upskilling workforces, and unlocking micro-exports across BRICS nations. Javed's optimistic mantra—"Entrepreneurialism binds nations where politics divides"—underscores the bloc's role as a bridge, not a barrier. For the U.S., this is a chance to recalibrate trade policies, leveraging BRICS' diverse strengths—China's scale, India's tech innovation, Brazil's resources, and the UAE's hubs—to access new markets with improved, mutually beneficial tariffs.

Why is Expothon Worldwide a global platform for entrepreneurial innovation and authority on the national mobilization of SME protocols? Since the last decade, it has been sharply focused on 100 countries. Why is it challenging to use new narratives and deployable methodologies for all massive SME sectors within the GCC, OIC, European Union, African Union, Commonwealth, BRICS, and ASEAN for the national mobilization of entrepreneurialism as immediately applicable pragmatic solutions?

These insights have been shared weekly for the last 50-100 weeks and reach approximately 2000 selected VIP national cabinet-level senior government officials across 100 free economies. This track record of expertise and trust forms the foundation of its proposed strategies.

Over 100 countries are currently facing economic struggles, and most, after the past decade, have no magical solutions or the necessary skills with the national mobilization of entrepreneurialism to address the root causes of these issues.

Why Is this Gaining Attention?

Expothon is gaining traction because it is daring yet grounded, relevant yet timeless. It does not promote quick fixes but offers a transformative approach: nations prosper when their people do, and SMEs are the ignition point. In many ways, this sends an urgent message—perfect for a world hungry for alternatives to traditional economic thinking. The team deserves credit for identifying these issues and providing tools to construct something better. That is why attention is shifting from capitals to conference rooms and is now a serious topic at cabinet meetings.

Rather than a zero-sum game, BRICS and NAME invite collaboration, where U.S. entrepreneurs can tap into a Global Hub, as outlined by Expothon, connecting SMEs from 100 nations in a digital trade ecosystem. The U.S., with its historical mastery of entrepreneurial dynamism, can lead this shift, partnering with BRICS to co-create solutions for shared challenges like digital divides and youth disengagement.

Imagine tariff frameworks that reward innovation over protectionism, enabling U.S. firms to export tech and green solutions to BRICS' burgeoning middle classes while importing commodities and ideas at competitive rates. This synergy aligns with Expothon's decade-long mission to replace value manipulation with value creation, offering a prosperity blueprint for all involved.

The BRICS Manifesto—digitizing high potential SMEs, igniting youth, and unleashing micro-exports
—complements, rather than competes with, the U.S. economic ethos, inviting a dialogue on intellectual property and infrastructure that benefits all. Amid global economic struggles, NAME's protocols provide a lifeline, not just for BRICS but for free economies worldwide, including the U.S., to diversify supply chains and bolster resilience. Saudi Arabia's pending membership and the growing partner network (Algeria, Nigeria, and beyond) signal BRICS openness to inclusive growth, not exclusionary dominance.

For the USA, embracing this bloc means amplifying its global reach, not relinquishing it—trading with a powerhouse that thrives on entrepreneurial mysticism. The five-step mandate—digitizing SMEs, upskilling entrepreneurs, incentivizing innovation, fostering collaboration, and igniting job creators—offers a universal playbook for economic renewal.

BRICS – SMEs powered by NAME – is not a threat but a clarion call for the U.S. to go global, trade smarter, and co-build a future where entrepreneurialism, not tariffs, defines success. The time to seize this opportunity is now—prosperity awaits those bold enough to mandate the national mobilization of entrepreneurialism across BRICS nations.

Brazil
Source: brics.br

In 2024, the tourism sector generated approximately USD 11 trillion in revenue, accounting for 10% of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and supported around 348 million jobs—equivalent to the entire population of 29 cities the size of São Paulo working in the sector. Data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) highlights the growing relevance of tourism on the international agenda, particularly from the perspective of the BRICS countries. In the Global South, tourism is seen as a strategic tool for promoting economic growth, preserving cultural heritage, and advancing sustainable development.

On Monday (12), BRICS ministers and high-level tourism authorities approved the Cerrado Declaration, identifying six key areas for cooperation among member countries: infrastructure, diversification of tourism offerings, professional training, public-private collaboration, financing and incentives, and tourism promotion.

“Let us work together—governments, businesspeople, political leaders, and local communities—to ensure that tourism plays a key role in addressing global challenges and promoting peace, solidarity, and social justice, while generating prosperity and better living conditions for people across the planet,” said Celso Sabino, Brasil’s Minister of Tourism and coordinator of the initiative.

The Cerrado Declaration can be read in full here.

Strengthening tourism in small towns and communities from an international perspective
SOUTH AFRICA — According to Maggie Sotyu, Deputy Minister of Tourism of the Republic of South Africa, the government is partnering with municipalities to empower local communities, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The strategy involves bringing entrepreneurs together—especially in rural areas—to establish direct communication channels and listen to their needs and suggestions. The Deputy Minister emphasized that the support will be sustainable, going beyond simply transferring resources. It will include ongoing monitoring of fund usage and enterprise management to ensure development is both effective and lasting.

“For instance, we try to secure funding for skills development and then train young people, particularly in hospitality and culinary arts,” Sotyu added. “We work closely with the private sector to ensure they find jobs or are supported in starting their own businesses.”

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES — Secretary of the UAE Ministry of Economy Abdelrahman Hassan Almuain stated that the tourism industry is one of the fundamental pillars of job creation in the federation, contributing more than 12% to the national GDP. He emphasized that strengthening the sector—particularly the hotel industry—has a direct impact on employment, as it increases demand for professionals in areas such as lodging, food services, and tourism infrastructure.

“Hosting the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) was one of the reasons we became more sustainable, so we are committed to ensuring that all tourism-related activities support sustainability,” he said. “Here, we see that the Brazilian government has several initiatives to protect and promote tourism in the Amazon, and we are pursuing similar efforts. We need to protect the environment, ensure sustainability, and then promote tourism.”

RUSSIA — According to Nikita Kondratyev, Director General for Tourism of the Russian Federation, the government is committed to integrating regional budgets into the federal system to support tourism management by Indigenous peoples and small communities, thereby contributing to job creation. Kondratyev also emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen small and medium-sized tourism-related businesses to boost the sector. These initiatives form part of a national tourism development project aimed at improving infrastructure and promoting the sustainable growth of small towns.
“When we talk about investing in roads and infrastructure, for instance, we are primarily talking about small towns,” said Kondratyev. “Big cities generally do not face the same challenges, but every country struggles with smaller municipalities. That is why we are prioritizing funding and supporting investment in these areas.”

Digital and inclusive tourism

In 2023, there were 35 million digital nomads — people who work remotely while traveling — and estimates suggest that number could reach 1 billion within the next ten years. These figures come from a global report by Fragomen, a company specializing in migration. The report, titled A Report on Strategies for Digital Nomads, was the main output of a working group that focused on four dimensions: mapping destinations, visa policies, infrastructure and services, and promotion efforts.
The report emphasizes that efficient connectivity, safety, and leisure opportunities are essential to attract this niche audience. It highlights destinations such as Brasil, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates, and India as examples for other countries to follow. The conclusion underscores that coordinated action in the coming years will be crucial to leveraging digital nomad tourism as a catalyst for inclusive and resilient economic growth across BRICS nations.

Sustainable tourism

Another report focuses on Sustainable, Resilient, and Regenerative Tourism, positioning tourism as a vital driver of economic, social, and environmental progress within the BRICS. It offers a comparative analysis of national strategies to identify good practices and common challenges. The study emphasizes the importance of knowledge exchange and collaborative solutions to strengthen the sector’s capacity to respond to global challenges, including climate change and economic instability. The Sustainable Travel Report published by the Booking platform notes that, as of 2023, 76% of travelers have set a goal to travel more sustainably in the coming years.

Brazil
Source: brics.br

Coordinated by the Brazilian Ministry of Education, the BRICS-NU International Governance Council oversees the expansion of member countries and participating institutions. The network promotes joint research, academic mobility, and innovation.

On Monday, May 12, the Brazilian Ministry of Education (Ministério da Educação – MEC) chaired a meeting of the BRICS Network University (BRICS-NU) International Governance Council via videoconference. The event brought together representatives from governments and universities of member countries and marked the network’s 10th anniversary. In addition to MEC’s International Advisory Board (Assessoria Internacional), the International Relations Directorate of the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ CAPES) also participated.

The event also formalized the entry of new institutions into the network. In Brasil’s case, accession followed a process coordinated by CAPES and the National Coordinating Committee. As a result, the number of participating institutions was distributed as follows:

• South Africa: 14 institutions
• Brasil: 20 institutions
• China: 20 institutions
• Egypt: 20 institutions
• India: 12 institutions
• Iran: 19 institutions
• Russia: 20 institutions
• United Arab Emirates: 12 institutions

“The new appointments come at a time when Brasil is re-engaging with the network. We view BRICS-NU as an initiative capable of strengthening the diversification of external partnerships among Brazilian higher education institutions. Brasil’s relations with universities in BRICS countries still hold significant untapped potential — and these will be developed without prejudice to other partners, some of which are more established and contribute to the internationalization goals outlined in our educational plans,” said Francisco Figueiredo de Souza, Special Advisor for International Affairs, who moderated the session.

Background – Established in 2015, the BRICS Network University (BRICS-NU) brings together higher education institutions from BRICS countries to promote joint research, academic mobility, and innovative educational programs in thematic areas of common interest. The original network included institutions from Brasil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. As of last year, institutions from Egypt, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates became eligible to join, with Indonesia and Ethiopia expected to follow in 2025.

In addition to this expansion in country participation, 2024 also saw an increase in the range of topics covered. BRICS-NU was originally structured around six focus areas: Computer Science and Information Security; BRICS Studies; Energy; Ecology and Climate Change; Water Resources and Pollution Control; and Economics. Five new fields were added: Health Sciences; Mathematics; Natural Sciences; Social Sciences and Humanities; and Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security.

With the updated list of participating institutions, Brasil is now represented in all 11 BRICS-NU thematic groups—nine of them with two institutions and two with one. Excluding those on the reserve list, the final selection includes two universities from the Central-West, four from the South, five from the Northeast, and nine from the Southeast. Campuses are located in both capital cities and interior towns. Notably, 50% of the selected proposals were submitted by female vice-chancellors. The full list is available here.

With the approval of the International Governing Board (IGB), and to improve institutional distribution across the 11 thematic groups, Brasil proposed raising the maximum number of participating universities per country. The new quota allows for up to 22 institutions, at the discretion of national committees, enabling the participation of up to two universities per country in each thematic group. The Brazilian national committee is expected to reconvene to determine how to proceed with the nomination of two additional institutions.

Discussions are still ongoing regarding the launch of a dedicated scientific journal, specific calls for faculty and student mobility, and the introduction of joint master's programs with multiple degrees.