Information Bulletin of the BRICS Trade Union Forum
Monitoring of the economic, social and labor situation in the BRICS countries
Monitoring of the economic, social and labor situation in the BRICS countries
Issue 21.2025
2025.05.19 — 2025.05.25
International relations
Foreign policy in the context of BRICS
BRICS approves declaration and advances sustainable industrial agenda with focus on technology and small businesses (БРИКС одобряет декларацию и продвигает повестку дня в области устойчивого развития промышленности с упором на технологии и малый бизнес) / Brazil, May 2025
Keywords: concluded_agreements, sustainable_development, top_level_meeting
2025-05-21
2025-05-21
Brazil
Source: brics.br
The contributions reveal a consensus on the urgency of promoting a new industrial revolution guided by innovation, equity, and sustainability, in which digital technology and international cooperation play central roles
On Wednesday, May 21, the 9th BRICS Industry Ministers' Meeting was held in Brasilia, marking a new chapter in the group's cooperation. The ministers approved an ambitious Joint Declaration that reinforces their commitment to more inclusive and sustainable global governance. Under Brasil's presidency, the declaration's approval reaffirms BRICS's strategic role as a driving force for a more balanced international order.
The ministers emphasized the importance of innovation and industrial digitalization in promoting sustainable development, creating jobs, ensuring food and energy security, and addressing climate change. They identified Industry 4.0 as an essential tool for productive transformation, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are core components of BRICS economies.
One of the main outcomes of the meeting was the official recognition of the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competences (BCIC), which was launched in April 2025 in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The BCIC aims to enhance Industry 4.0 skills and foster productivity and partnerships among member countries. Ministers encouraged adherence to the initiative and highlighted the recent establishment of the China Center for Industrial Competences (CCBIC). Another highlight was the BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center (BPIC), which has organized forums, innovation contests, and training programs over the past five years. The BPIC has now expanded to include scholarships for technical training and professional exchanges within the group.
Technology cooperation gained new momentum with the launch of the BRICS Startup Knowledge Hub, introduced in January as part of the group’s Startup Forum, and with the High-Level Forum on Artificial Intelligence, held in Brasilia and co-organized by China. In industrial governance, the terms of reference for Working Groups on Smart Manufacturing and Robotics, Digital Transformation of Industry, and SMEs were approved, along with the creation of the PartNIR Sovereign AI initiative for Digital Industrialization. The initiative seeks to strengthen cooperation on sovereign artificial intelligence and digitalization.
On the environmental agenda, the Joint Declaration stressed the commitment to green industrial development, energy efficiency and circular economy, from eco-design to responsible consumption. BRICS reaffirmed its role in promoting resilient and inclusive supply chains, aligning economic growth with sustainability.
"Through our collaborative efforts within the partnership, we have demonstrated the capacity of BRICS to develop a robust, modern, and future-oriented industrial agenda. We have not only the potential but also the responsibility to transform these priorities into concrete actions for the benefit of our economies and the international community"
Vice President of Brasil and Minister of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services Geraldo Alckmin highlighted the symbolism of the BRICS expansion, which now includes nations from the Global South. "This expansion not only demonstrates our geographical, demographic, and economic scope, but also our commitment to offering concrete solutions for a new era of sustainable development, technological innovation, and shared prosperity." Together, we represent nearly half of the world's population, 39 percent of the global GDP in purchasing power parity, and 24 percent of international trade."
Alckmin emphasized that, under President Lula's leadership, Brasil is committed to promoting practical and coordinated solutions among countries, particularly regarding industrial, technological, and productive agendas. "Through our collaborative efforts within the partnership, we have demonstrated the capacity of BRICS to develop a robust, modern, and future-oriented industrial agenda. We have not only the potential but also the responsibility to transform these priorities into concrete actions for the benefit of our economies and the international community," he said. The minister also advocated "sovereign artificial intelligence" adapted to the group's linguistic and cultural realities and emphasized the potential of the bioeconomy and green chemistry for sustainable reindustrialization.
2025–2030 Action Plan
Small and medium-sized enterprises received special attention with the signing of the 2025–2030 Action Plan for SMEs, the first of its kind in the BRICS, as well as the release of the report, "Digital Transformation in the Age of Artificial Intelligence," which will guide training policies. Márcio França, the Minister of Entrepreneurship, Micro, and Small Businesses, noted that SMEs comprise 90% of companies and over 50% of jobs within the group, acting as "the backbone of productive dynamism."
França welcomed the initiative that marks the first time BRICS has a working group dedicated exclusively to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. "The initiative, officially launched by the Russian presidency last year, is now taking concrete and institutional shape under Brasil's leadership. Its central role is economic growth, income generation, and promoting innovation in a wide range of sectors. The creation of this working group within the framework of the new industrial revolution partnership is a strategic milestone that will allow us to expand the exchange of experiences around the global economy," he said.
With the Brasilia Declaration, BRICS consolidates an industrial agenda based on innovation, sustainability, and inclusion, translated into concrete initiatives such as competence centers, startup hubs, and sectoral action plans. The meeting reaffirmed the group's commitment to a development model that prioritizes social justice, responsible use of natural resources, and solidarity among developing nations, positioning Brasil as a central coordinator of this shared vision for the future.
Countries emphasized the importance of technology, SMEs, and sustainability in the new industrial era
The combination of digitalization and artificial intelligence was identified as a driver of economic transformation, particularly in countries that prioritize climate change mitigation through technology. Cooperation among Global South countries was also recognized as a means of strengthening emerging economies and promoting inclusive industrialization.
There was an emphasis on transforming the manufacturing sector, especially in regions where manufacturing is linked to agriculture. This transformation would contribute to job and income generation, as well as local economic stability. The interaction between these sectors is crucial for promoting development.
During discussions on the future of industry and digital transformation, representatives from various countries emphasized the growing importance of technological innovation, sustainability, and the strengthening of SMEs as drivers of global economic development.
A central topic was the significant progress in installing industrial robots, with some countries accounting for half of the robots deployed worldwide in the last two years. This trend indicates an acceleration in the automation and digitization of industry, accompanied by substantial annual growth rates among micro and small businesses, fueled by incentive policies and productive modernization.
SMEs were also cited as essential components of the economy, accounting for a significant share of GDP and job creation in several countries. To expand this sector in a sustainable manner, efforts are being made to develop low-carbon technologies and consolidate promising markets, such as artificial intelligence, which is considered the fastest growing market in the global scenario.
English version: Luana Ferreira de Freitas/UFC/POET
Proofreading by Kelvis Santiago Nascimento/ UFC/POET
Source: brics.br
The contributions reveal a consensus on the urgency of promoting a new industrial revolution guided by innovation, equity, and sustainability, in which digital technology and international cooperation play central roles
On Wednesday, May 21, the 9th BRICS Industry Ministers' Meeting was held in Brasilia, marking a new chapter in the group's cooperation. The ministers approved an ambitious Joint Declaration that reinforces their commitment to more inclusive and sustainable global governance. Under Brasil's presidency, the declaration's approval reaffirms BRICS's strategic role as a driving force for a more balanced international order.
The ministers emphasized the importance of innovation and industrial digitalization in promoting sustainable development, creating jobs, ensuring food and energy security, and addressing climate change. They identified Industry 4.0 as an essential tool for productive transformation, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are core components of BRICS economies.
One of the main outcomes of the meeting was the official recognition of the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competences (BCIC), which was launched in April 2025 in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The BCIC aims to enhance Industry 4.0 skills and foster productivity and partnerships among member countries. Ministers encouraged adherence to the initiative and highlighted the recent establishment of the China Center for Industrial Competences (CCBIC). Another highlight was the BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center (BPIC), which has organized forums, innovation contests, and training programs over the past five years. The BPIC has now expanded to include scholarships for technical training and professional exchanges within the group.
Technology cooperation gained new momentum with the launch of the BRICS Startup Knowledge Hub, introduced in January as part of the group’s Startup Forum, and with the High-Level Forum on Artificial Intelligence, held in Brasilia and co-organized by China. In industrial governance, the terms of reference for Working Groups on Smart Manufacturing and Robotics, Digital Transformation of Industry, and SMEs were approved, along with the creation of the PartNIR Sovereign AI initiative for Digital Industrialization. The initiative seeks to strengthen cooperation on sovereign artificial intelligence and digitalization.
On the environmental agenda, the Joint Declaration stressed the commitment to green industrial development, energy efficiency and circular economy, from eco-design to responsible consumption. BRICS reaffirmed its role in promoting resilient and inclusive supply chains, aligning economic growth with sustainability.
"Through our collaborative efforts within the partnership, we have demonstrated the capacity of BRICS to develop a robust, modern, and future-oriented industrial agenda. We have not only the potential but also the responsibility to transform these priorities into concrete actions for the benefit of our economies and the international community"
Vice President of Brasil and Minister of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services Geraldo Alckmin highlighted the symbolism of the BRICS expansion, which now includes nations from the Global South. "This expansion not only demonstrates our geographical, demographic, and economic scope, but also our commitment to offering concrete solutions for a new era of sustainable development, technological innovation, and shared prosperity." Together, we represent nearly half of the world's population, 39 percent of the global GDP in purchasing power parity, and 24 percent of international trade."
Alckmin emphasized that, under President Lula's leadership, Brasil is committed to promoting practical and coordinated solutions among countries, particularly regarding industrial, technological, and productive agendas. "Through our collaborative efforts within the partnership, we have demonstrated the capacity of BRICS to develop a robust, modern, and future-oriented industrial agenda. We have not only the potential but also the responsibility to transform these priorities into concrete actions for the benefit of our economies and the international community," he said. The minister also advocated "sovereign artificial intelligence" adapted to the group's linguistic and cultural realities and emphasized the potential of the bioeconomy and green chemistry for sustainable reindustrialization.
2025–2030 Action Plan
Small and medium-sized enterprises received special attention with the signing of the 2025–2030 Action Plan for SMEs, the first of its kind in the BRICS, as well as the release of the report, "Digital Transformation in the Age of Artificial Intelligence," which will guide training policies. Márcio França, the Minister of Entrepreneurship, Micro, and Small Businesses, noted that SMEs comprise 90% of companies and over 50% of jobs within the group, acting as "the backbone of productive dynamism."
França welcomed the initiative that marks the first time BRICS has a working group dedicated exclusively to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. "The initiative, officially launched by the Russian presidency last year, is now taking concrete and institutional shape under Brasil's leadership. Its central role is economic growth, income generation, and promoting innovation in a wide range of sectors. The creation of this working group within the framework of the new industrial revolution partnership is a strategic milestone that will allow us to expand the exchange of experiences around the global economy," he said.
With the Brasilia Declaration, BRICS consolidates an industrial agenda based on innovation, sustainability, and inclusion, translated into concrete initiatives such as competence centers, startup hubs, and sectoral action plans. The meeting reaffirmed the group's commitment to a development model that prioritizes social justice, responsible use of natural resources, and solidarity among developing nations, positioning Brasil as a central coordinator of this shared vision for the future.
Countries emphasized the importance of technology, SMEs, and sustainability in the new industrial era
The combination of digitalization and artificial intelligence was identified as a driver of economic transformation, particularly in countries that prioritize climate change mitigation through technology. Cooperation among Global South countries was also recognized as a means of strengthening emerging economies and promoting inclusive industrialization.
There was an emphasis on transforming the manufacturing sector, especially in regions where manufacturing is linked to agriculture. This transformation would contribute to job and income generation, as well as local economic stability. The interaction between these sectors is crucial for promoting development.
During discussions on the future of industry and digital transformation, representatives from various countries emphasized the growing importance of technological innovation, sustainability, and the strengthening of SMEs as drivers of global economic development.
A central topic was the significant progress in installing industrial robots, with some countries accounting for half of the robots deployed worldwide in the last two years. This trend indicates an acceleration in the automation and digitization of industry, accompanied by substantial annual growth rates among micro and small businesses, fueled by incentive policies and productive modernization.
SMEs were also cited as essential components of the economy, accounting for a significant share of GDP and job creation in several countries. To expand this sector in a sustainable manner, efforts are being made to develop low-carbon technologies and consolidate promising markets, such as artificial intelligence, which is considered the fastest growing market in the global scenario.
English version: Luana Ferreira de Freitas/UFC/POET
Proofreading by Kelvis Santiago Nascimento/ UFC/POET
Commitment to a just and financially feasible energy transition marks BRICS Joint Energy Statement (Приверженность справедливому и финансово осуществимому энергетическому переходу знаменует собой Совместное энергетическое заявление БРИКС) / Brazil, May 2025
Keywords: brics+, concluded_agreements, energy
2025-05-20
2025-05-20
Brazil
Source: brics.br
Commitment to a just and financially feasible energy transition marks BRICS Joint Energy Statement
Energy Ministers from BRICS member states convened to discuss aligning global competitiveness with the decarbonization of strategic sectors. Key outcomes include the adoption of the BRICS Energy Cooperation Roadmap 2025–2030
On Monday (19), through a Joint Statement endorsed by the Energy Ministers of BRICS countries, the group reaffirmed its commitment to just, orderly, and inclusive energy transitions. The 28-paragraph document underscores the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while respecting national contexts and priorities. Bolivia and Cuba, as partner countries, also participated in the meeting held at the Itamaraty Palace in Brasília.
"The world increasingly sees the energy transition not only as a necessity in the face of climate change but as an opportunity to reposition our countries within a new economic paradigm for the benefit and prosperity of all peoples"
By aligning regulatory frameworks and attracting investments, member countries aim to enhance global competitiveness and accelerate the decarbonization of key sectors such as transport and industry. In this context, the statement advocates for more open and equitable international energy markets, including the use of local currencies in energy trade and improved access to low-interest financing.
"Energy is a strategic pillar of our economies and societies. Together, we account for nearly 50% of global energy production and consumption. This places a shared responsibility on us to strike a balance between energy security, sustainable development, and the transition to a low-carbon future," stated Thiago Barral, National Secretary for Energy Transition and Planning at Brasil’s Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME). He further emphasized that without adequate investment, the transition will be slower, less equitable, and less inclusive.
Echoing this perspective, Ambassador Mauricio Lyrio, BRICS Sherpa and Secretary for Climate, Energy, and Environment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, asserted that energy security and a just transition are not at odds with economic development but are, rather, complementary. “The world increasingly sees the energy transition not only as a necessity in the face of climate change but as an opportunity to reposition our countries within a new economic paradigm for the benefit and prosperity of all peoples,” he said.
Deliverables of the Brazilian Presidency
During the meeting, the ministers approved the BRICS Energy Cooperation Roadmap 2025–2030, which will serve as a foundation over the next five years to deepen collaboration among member states and foster international partnerships on priority energy-related issues.
They also welcomed progress made on the Energy Research Cooperation Platform, which strengthens the institutional basis for technical cooperation and provides updated guidelines for developing new joint initiatives. Additionally, two new reports are under preparation, one on sustainable fuels and another on access to energy services. The goal is to double the global energy efficiency improvement rate by 2030.
“The BRICS reports and the Energy Cooperation Roadmap, developed this year under Brasil’s presidency with valuable input from senior energy officials of member countries, will serve as a guiding framework for our future efforts,” stated Manohar Lal Khattar, India’s Minister of Energy, Housing, and Urban Affairs
Finally, the Statement acknowledged the upcoming first summit of the Global Alliance for Energy Efficiency, to be held in February next year in the United Arab Emirates.
“Some countries have best practices in renewables, while others have abundant fossil fuels and technologies for carbon capture and utilization. It is this combination of strengths across BRICS members that must be leveraged jointly to identify the right solutions for our communities and for the global community as a whole,” said Sharif Al-Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum at the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
COP30 discussed within BRICS
The Statement also expressed member countries’ anticipation for the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), to be held in Belém, Brasil, in November. The group signaled its intent to engage constructively in the event, focusing on enhancing and strengthening support for developing countries as they confront the challenges posed by the current socio-environmental landscape.
"BRICS is now seen globally as a group that must increasingly take on leadership, especially given the failure of developed nations to lead effectively during years of climate negotiations," highlighted Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago, President of COP30, who joined ministers of the Global South during the meeting.
Ten years ago, at the COP in France, 196 countries signed the Paris Agreement, which, among other goals, included the commitment of developed nations to financially and technologically support developing countries in their mitigation and adaptation efforts. However, climate impacts have become more complex since then. This year, Brasil, in coordination with the United Nations (UN), calls for the submission of new, more robust and ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Next month, on June 9 and 10, Brasília will host the VII BRICS Youth Energy Summit. Young participants will engage with Brazilian policymakers and energy leaders to discuss recommendations for the 2025 BRICS Youth Energy Report, which is expected to include themes aligned with the UN Conference agenda.
Source: brics.br
Commitment to a just and financially feasible energy transition marks BRICS Joint Energy Statement
Energy Ministers from BRICS member states convened to discuss aligning global competitiveness with the decarbonization of strategic sectors. Key outcomes include the adoption of the BRICS Energy Cooperation Roadmap 2025–2030
On Monday (19), through a Joint Statement endorsed by the Energy Ministers of BRICS countries, the group reaffirmed its commitment to just, orderly, and inclusive energy transitions. The 28-paragraph document underscores the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while respecting national contexts and priorities. Bolivia and Cuba, as partner countries, also participated in the meeting held at the Itamaraty Palace in Brasília.
"The world increasingly sees the energy transition not only as a necessity in the face of climate change but as an opportunity to reposition our countries within a new economic paradigm for the benefit and prosperity of all peoples"
By aligning regulatory frameworks and attracting investments, member countries aim to enhance global competitiveness and accelerate the decarbonization of key sectors such as transport and industry. In this context, the statement advocates for more open and equitable international energy markets, including the use of local currencies in energy trade and improved access to low-interest financing.
"Energy is a strategic pillar of our economies and societies. Together, we account for nearly 50% of global energy production and consumption. This places a shared responsibility on us to strike a balance between energy security, sustainable development, and the transition to a low-carbon future," stated Thiago Barral, National Secretary for Energy Transition and Planning at Brasil’s Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME). He further emphasized that without adequate investment, the transition will be slower, less equitable, and less inclusive.
Echoing this perspective, Ambassador Mauricio Lyrio, BRICS Sherpa and Secretary for Climate, Energy, and Environment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, asserted that energy security and a just transition are not at odds with economic development but are, rather, complementary. “The world increasingly sees the energy transition not only as a necessity in the face of climate change but as an opportunity to reposition our countries within a new economic paradigm for the benefit and prosperity of all peoples,” he said.
Deliverables of the Brazilian Presidency
During the meeting, the ministers approved the BRICS Energy Cooperation Roadmap 2025–2030, which will serve as a foundation over the next five years to deepen collaboration among member states and foster international partnerships on priority energy-related issues.
They also welcomed progress made on the Energy Research Cooperation Platform, which strengthens the institutional basis for technical cooperation and provides updated guidelines for developing new joint initiatives. Additionally, two new reports are under preparation, one on sustainable fuels and another on access to energy services. The goal is to double the global energy efficiency improvement rate by 2030.
“The BRICS reports and the Energy Cooperation Roadmap, developed this year under Brasil’s presidency with valuable input from senior energy officials of member countries, will serve as a guiding framework for our future efforts,” stated Manohar Lal Khattar, India’s Minister of Energy, Housing, and Urban Affairs
Finally, the Statement acknowledged the upcoming first summit of the Global Alliance for Energy Efficiency, to be held in February next year in the United Arab Emirates.
“Some countries have best practices in renewables, while others have abundant fossil fuels and technologies for carbon capture and utilization. It is this combination of strengths across BRICS members that must be leveraged jointly to identify the right solutions for our communities and for the global community as a whole,” said Sharif Al-Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum at the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure.
COP30 discussed within BRICS
The Statement also expressed member countries’ anticipation for the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), to be held in Belém, Brasil, in November. The group signaled its intent to engage constructively in the event, focusing on enhancing and strengthening support for developing countries as they confront the challenges posed by the current socio-environmental landscape.
"BRICS is now seen globally as a group that must increasingly take on leadership, especially given the failure of developed nations to lead effectively during years of climate negotiations," highlighted Ambassador André Corrêa do Lago, President of COP30, who joined ministers of the Global South during the meeting.
Ten years ago, at the COP in France, 196 countries signed the Paris Agreement, which, among other goals, included the commitment of developed nations to financially and technologically support developing countries in their mitigation and adaptation efforts. However, climate impacts have become more complex since then. This year, Brasil, in coordination with the United Nations (UN), calls for the submission of new, more robust and ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Next month, on June 9 and 10, Brasília will host the VII BRICS Youth Energy Summit. Young participants will engage with Brazilian policymakers and energy leaders to discuss recommendations for the 2025 BRICS Youth Energy Report, which is expected to include themes aligned with the UN Conference agenda.
BRICS Brasil Bulletin #07 - Brasil hosts 2nd BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Transport with a focus on sustainability and International Alliance (BRICS Brasil Bulletin #07 - Бразилия принимает 2-ю министерскую встречу БРИКС по транспорту с акцентом на устойчивое развитие и международный альянс) / Brazil, May 2025
Keywords: top_level_meeting, transport
2025-05-19
2025-05-19
Brazil
Source: brics.br
BRICS Brasil Bulletin #07 - Brasil hosts 2nd BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Transport with a focus on sustainability and International Alliance
Resilient infrastructure, decarbonization, sustainable aviation fuels, and the creation of a BRICS Institute for Sustainable Transport, Mobility, and Logistics were also on the agenda. Listen to the report and find out more.
Reporter: On Wednesday (14th), the 2nd BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Transport convened authorities from member countries to discuss strategic themes on mobility and infrastructure. Authorities approved a Joint Declaration to strengthen cooperation in the transport sector, fostering economic growth, connectivity, sustainability, and development among the countries of the group.
Under Brasil’s presidency of the group in 2025, the Declaration outlined six key areas: sustainable and resilient transport infrastructure; decarbonization of ports and maritime transport; sustainable aviation fuels; air connectivity; sustainable air mobility; and the proposal for creating a BRICS International Logistics Alliance. The Brazilian Ministries of Ports and Airports (Portos e Aeroportos/MPor), Transport (Transportes/MT), and Cities (Cidades/MCid) coordinated the meeting. Cloves Benevides, undersecretary of sustainability at the Ministry of Transport, highlighted the importance of collaborative action:
Cloves Benevides: 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.
Reporter: The countries proposed the creation of the BRICS Institute for Sustainable Transport, Mobility, and Logistics (BISTML), tackling infrastructure challenges through innovative solutions, promoting 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 creation of the Institute is one of the main outcomes of the BRICS Transport Working Group in 2025.
Mariana Pescatori: A strategic initiative to foster innovation, share best practices, and address infrastructure challenges with environmentally sustainable solutions that are resilient to climate change.
Reporter: Another priority pillar highlighted in the Joint Declaration is strengthening the logistics integration among BRICS countries. Thus, the ministers acknowledged the efforts to establish the BRICS International Logistics Alliance. The initiative seeks to bring together the public and private sectors on a joint platform to expand connectivity among countries and strengthen the capacity to respond to climate disasters and other emergencies.
Newly integrated in 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, Indonesian ambassador to Brasil, Edi Yusup, highlighted the country’s enthusiasm for joining BRICS and stressed its commitment to joint initiatives.
Edi Yusup: 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.
Reporter: The Joint Declaration also highlights as priorities two additional core pillars: the decarbonization of ports and maritime transport, and the promotion of sustainable aviation fuels. Both efforts underscore the BRICS countries’ commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy, aligned with the Paris Agreement and 2030 Agenda goals.
Source: brics.br
BRICS Brasil Bulletin #07 - Brasil hosts 2nd BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Transport with a focus on sustainability and International Alliance
Resilient infrastructure, decarbonization, sustainable aviation fuels, and the creation of a BRICS Institute for Sustainable Transport, Mobility, and Logistics were also on the agenda. Listen to the report and find out more.
Reporter: On Wednesday (14th), the 2nd BRICS Ministerial Meeting on Transport convened authorities from member countries to discuss strategic themes on mobility and infrastructure. Authorities approved a Joint Declaration to strengthen cooperation in the transport sector, fostering economic growth, connectivity, sustainability, and development among the countries of the group.
Under Brasil’s presidency of the group in 2025, the Declaration outlined six key areas: sustainable and resilient transport infrastructure; decarbonization of ports and maritime transport; sustainable aviation fuels; air connectivity; sustainable air mobility; and the proposal for creating a BRICS International Logistics Alliance. The Brazilian Ministries of Ports and Airports (Portos e Aeroportos/MPor), Transport (Transportes/MT), and Cities (Cidades/MCid) coordinated the meeting. Cloves Benevides, undersecretary of sustainability at the Ministry of Transport, highlighted the importance of collaborative action:
Cloves Benevides: 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.
Reporter: The countries proposed the creation of the BRICS Institute for Sustainable Transport, Mobility, and Logistics (BISTML), tackling infrastructure challenges through innovative solutions, promoting 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 creation of the Institute is one of the main outcomes of the BRICS Transport Working Group in 2025.
Mariana Pescatori: A strategic initiative to foster innovation, share best practices, and address infrastructure challenges with environmentally sustainable solutions that are resilient to climate change.
Reporter: Another priority pillar highlighted in the Joint Declaration is strengthening the logistics integration among BRICS countries. Thus, the ministers acknowledged the efforts to establish the BRICS International Logistics Alliance. The initiative seeks to bring together the public and private sectors on a joint platform to expand connectivity among countries and strengthen the capacity to respond to climate disasters and other emergencies.
Newly integrated in 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, Indonesian ambassador to Brasil, Edi Yusup, highlighted the country’s enthusiasm for joining BRICS and stressed its commitment to joint initiatives.
Edi Yusup: 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.
Reporter: The Joint Declaration also highlights as priorities two additional core pillars: the decarbonization of ports and maritime transport, and the promotion of sustainable aviation fuels. Both efforts underscore the BRICS countries’ commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy, aligned with the Paris Agreement and 2030 Agenda goals.
Synchronizing presidencies across the levels of global governance (Синхронизация президентств на всех уровнях мирового управления) / Russia, May 2025
Keywords: brics+, expert_opinion, global_governance
2025-05-23
2025-05-23
Russia
Source: brics-plus-analytics.org
The way to improve the sequencing of chairmanships of countries across the main international forums would be to allow for the regional chairmanship to precede the country’s presidency in global forums. Ideally, the country’s presidency in the regional integration arrangement (such as ASEAN or Mercosur) generates the policy impulse and a set of initiatives that are agreed upon at the regional level and then advanced to the higher levels of global governance in forums such as BRICS+ (comprising the Global South) and G20 (global level). In this way, a continuous sequence of several years of a given country’s presidency in the regional and global forums and organizations allows the policy initiatives to be more inclusive (in terms of their coordination with regional partners) and more sustained.
This continuity of policy initiatives could be further reinforced via the Troika (current, past year and next year presidencies) mechanism operating in a coordinated and pre-meditated way across regional, trans-regional and global international forums. In case such Troikas were to operate across all the main international forums and organizations, this would greatly improve policy continuity and the connectivity across blocs and organizations. In particular, Troikas could cooperate across blocs and forums such as COP, G20 and BRICS in ensuring that the key initiatives on the policy agenda are duly advanced across all the main levels of global governance. Furthermore, if platforms of regional integration arrangements were to be created at various levels of global governance (BRICS, G20), this could create scope for “Regional Troikas” to operate in tandem with the country-level Troikas in international forums.
Admittedly, the vagaries of setting the sequence of chairmanships on the basis of ad hoc factors, including alphabetical order, have resulted not only in congested chairmanships (of one country chairing several forums in 1 year), but also in a fortuitous sequence of presidencies as was the case with four consecutive G20 chairs (Indonesia, India, Brazil and South Africa in 2022-2025) coming from the Global South, all four of them now being members of the BRICS bloc. This sequence provided a unique opportunity to take coordinated decisions from the country level to the regional and then global levels in a sustained way that could have imparted a palpable impact on the direction of global economic development. In case BRICS had a Troika mechanism connected to the respective G20 Troikas, there would have been a sequence of several years in which the same composition of a BRICS Troika would be followed by the same G20 Troika in the following year (for example the BRICS IBSA Troika in 2023 being replicated in 2024 in the form of a G20 IBSA Troika), providing scope for greater policy continuity and sustained implementation of initiatives. Alas, due to the lack of coordination within BRICS (including due to the absence of the BRICS Troika mechanism) this opportunity appears to have been lost.
The benefits of a synchronized system of presidencies include greater scope to conclude plurilateral accords ex-ante across global forums and organizations as well as a more continuous mode of the implementation of economic policy initiatives compared to the more discrete and short-term policy impulses that are characteristic of the current system. Policy impulses launched by one country become more sustained via further presidencies and the Troika mechanism compared to most of such initiatives being limited to 1 year and being disconnected across the various levels of global governance in the current system. The drawbacks of the proposed sequencing framework include significant requirements for coordination across a wide array of actors and forums/platforms – this may prove to be a tall order in the current international setting.
Given that the practical feasibility of the proposed arrangement of synchronized presidencies may face challenges due to the need for greater coordination across blocs and regions, it may be more expedient then to approach this greater synchronicity via test cases of certain key initiatives and themes being coordinated by countries with their regional and global partners through successive presidencies. One example of such test cases in the past several years could have been the idea of creating a platform for regional integration arrangements being discussed by South Africa with its regional partners from the AU in 2020-2021 (when South Africa chaired the regional bloc), taken to the BRICS level through the (not yet existent) BRICS Troika mechanism in 2022-2023 (South Africa would become part of the Troika in 2022 as it hosted the BRICS summit in 2023) to discuss the creation of such a platform for RTAs within the BRICS+ framework. This could have been then advanced to the global level of the G20 in 2024-2025 with both South Africa (a member of the G20 Troika since 2024 and the Chair in 2025) and the African Union (that became a member of the G20 in 2023-2024) presenting the case for the creation of a regional 20/platform for regional integration arrangements at the global level.
And of course the challenge of greater synchronicity in the operation of the global economy relates not only to the sequencing of chairmanships and the continuity/inclusivity of policy initiatives, but also to coordinated economic stimuli (that within the G20 framework are still largely ad hoc and in the context of BRICS+ non-existent). Another such area is trade liberalization that may complement and amplify WTO global trade rounds with a coordinated process of ex-ante discussion of the modalities of trade liberalization at the regional and global levels. Perhaps the same could be said of the build-up of policy initiatives in the run-up to global COP conferences. In all these areas, a realization of the sequence of consecutively building up policy impulses and initiatives from the national to regional and then to global level would significantly raise the effectiveness of economic policy measures at the global level.
Technical note: The mechanics of realigning the sequencing of presidencies/chairmanships across the main international platforms would be to start with the time-frames of country presidencies at the global level (for example set the year 2030 as the period of a given country’s presidency in the G20) and to then proceed to set the presidencies in trans-regional blocs one year earlier than the G20 chairmanship (BRICS chairmanship set for 2029) and for the regional blocs presidency to be set one year earlier than the trans-regional chairmanship (ASEAN or Mercosur presidency of that country set for 2028). With most international organizations and forums experiencing changes in chairmanship sequencing due to expansion/changes in membership there may be a need for re-synchronizing and adjusting the sequencing of presidencies every 10-15 years. At the same time, global forums may come and go and if the importance of the G20 platform were to decline the framework of synchronized presidencies could be re-adjusted to focus on global forums such as COP or other new emerging global platforms.
Yaroslav Lissovolik, Founder, BRICS+ Analytics
Source: brics-plus-analytics.org
- The current sequence of chairmanships across the main international forums is not synchronized across regional, trans-regional and global blocs/organizations
- The optimal mode of synchronization could involve the advancement of economic initiatives first at the regional level (RTAs) before moving further to the trans-regional level (BRICS, G7) and then to the level of global forums (G20, COP)
- A synchronized sequence of presidencies would allow for greater continuity, inclusivity and effectiveness in implementing policy initiatives
The way to improve the sequencing of chairmanships of countries across the main international forums would be to allow for the regional chairmanship to precede the country’s presidency in global forums. Ideally, the country’s presidency in the regional integration arrangement (such as ASEAN or Mercosur) generates the policy impulse and a set of initiatives that are agreed upon at the regional level and then advanced to the higher levels of global governance in forums such as BRICS+ (comprising the Global South) and G20 (global level). In this way, a continuous sequence of several years of a given country’s presidency in the regional and global forums and organizations allows the policy initiatives to be more inclusive (in terms of their coordination with regional partners) and more sustained.
This continuity of policy initiatives could be further reinforced via the Troika (current, past year and next year presidencies) mechanism operating in a coordinated and pre-meditated way across regional, trans-regional and global international forums. In case such Troikas were to operate across all the main international forums and organizations, this would greatly improve policy continuity and the connectivity across blocs and organizations. In particular, Troikas could cooperate across blocs and forums such as COP, G20 and BRICS in ensuring that the key initiatives on the policy agenda are duly advanced across all the main levels of global governance. Furthermore, if platforms of regional integration arrangements were to be created at various levels of global governance (BRICS, G20), this could create scope for “Regional Troikas” to operate in tandem with the country-level Troikas in international forums.
Admittedly, the vagaries of setting the sequence of chairmanships on the basis of ad hoc factors, including alphabetical order, have resulted not only in congested chairmanships (of one country chairing several forums in 1 year), but also in a fortuitous sequence of presidencies as was the case with four consecutive G20 chairs (Indonesia, India, Brazil and South Africa in 2022-2025) coming from the Global South, all four of them now being members of the BRICS bloc. This sequence provided a unique opportunity to take coordinated decisions from the country level to the regional and then global levels in a sustained way that could have imparted a palpable impact on the direction of global economic development. In case BRICS had a Troika mechanism connected to the respective G20 Troikas, there would have been a sequence of several years in which the same composition of a BRICS Troika would be followed by the same G20 Troika in the following year (for example the BRICS IBSA Troika in 2023 being replicated in 2024 in the form of a G20 IBSA Troika), providing scope for greater policy continuity and sustained implementation of initiatives. Alas, due to the lack of coordination within BRICS (including due to the absence of the BRICS Troika mechanism) this opportunity appears to have been lost.
The benefits of a synchronized system of presidencies include greater scope to conclude plurilateral accords ex-ante across global forums and organizations as well as a more continuous mode of the implementation of economic policy initiatives compared to the more discrete and short-term policy impulses that are characteristic of the current system. Policy impulses launched by one country become more sustained via further presidencies and the Troika mechanism compared to most of such initiatives being limited to 1 year and being disconnected across the various levels of global governance in the current system. The drawbacks of the proposed sequencing framework include significant requirements for coordination across a wide array of actors and forums/platforms – this may prove to be a tall order in the current international setting.
Given that the practical feasibility of the proposed arrangement of synchronized presidencies may face challenges due to the need for greater coordination across blocs and regions, it may be more expedient then to approach this greater synchronicity via test cases of certain key initiatives and themes being coordinated by countries with their regional and global partners through successive presidencies. One example of such test cases in the past several years could have been the idea of creating a platform for regional integration arrangements being discussed by South Africa with its regional partners from the AU in 2020-2021 (when South Africa chaired the regional bloc), taken to the BRICS level through the (not yet existent) BRICS Troika mechanism in 2022-2023 (South Africa would become part of the Troika in 2022 as it hosted the BRICS summit in 2023) to discuss the creation of such a platform for RTAs within the BRICS+ framework. This could have been then advanced to the global level of the G20 in 2024-2025 with both South Africa (a member of the G20 Troika since 2024 and the Chair in 2025) and the African Union (that became a member of the G20 in 2023-2024) presenting the case for the creation of a regional 20/platform for regional integration arrangements at the global level.
And of course the challenge of greater synchronicity in the operation of the global economy relates not only to the sequencing of chairmanships and the continuity/inclusivity of policy initiatives, but also to coordinated economic stimuli (that within the G20 framework are still largely ad hoc and in the context of BRICS+ non-existent). Another such area is trade liberalization that may complement and amplify WTO global trade rounds with a coordinated process of ex-ante discussion of the modalities of trade liberalization at the regional and global levels. Perhaps the same could be said of the build-up of policy initiatives in the run-up to global COP conferences. In all these areas, a realization of the sequence of consecutively building up policy impulses and initiatives from the national to regional and then to global level would significantly raise the effectiveness of economic policy measures at the global level.
Technical note: The mechanics of realigning the sequencing of presidencies/chairmanships across the main international platforms would be to start with the time-frames of country presidencies at the global level (for example set the year 2030 as the period of a given country’s presidency in the G20) and to then proceed to set the presidencies in trans-regional blocs one year earlier than the G20 chairmanship (BRICS chairmanship set for 2029) and for the regional blocs presidency to be set one year earlier than the trans-regional chairmanship (ASEAN or Mercosur presidency of that country set for 2028). With most international organizations and forums experiencing changes in chairmanship sequencing due to expansion/changes in membership there may be a need for re-synchronizing and adjusting the sequencing of presidencies every 10-15 years. At the same time, global forums may come and go and if the importance of the G20 platform were to decline the framework of synchronized presidencies could be re-adjusted to focus on global forums such as COP or other new emerging global platforms.
Yaroslav Lissovolik, Founder, BRICS+ Analytics
Russia to help Malaysia get acclimated to BRICS work — Putin (Россия поможет Малайзии адаптироваться к работе в БРИКС — Путин) / Russia, May 2025
Keywords: brics+, Malaysia
2025-05-19
2025-05-19
Russia
Source: www.nkibrics.ru
Russia is pleased that Malaysia has received the status of a BRICS partner state and will contribute to its organic and rapid inclusion in the group’s activities, Russian President Vladimir Putin said after talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
A category of BRICS partner states was established last year under Russia’s presidency in the group.
"We are happy that our Malaysian friends have accepted this invitation and will do our best to ensure that Malaysia quickly and organically joins the work of all BRICS partner mechanisms," Putin said.
He added that the countries are coordinating their efforts at other key multilateral venues, including the United Nations.
The positions of Russia and Malaysia on regional and global issues are "in many ways close or coincide. Our countries firmly defend the principles of the supremacy of international law, sovereignty, and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries," Putin added.
The Russian leader also stressed that during the Russian-Malaysian talks, issues related to promoting peaceful and sustainable development of the Asia-Pacific region were discussed, taking into account the fact that Malaysia is the current chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
"We also discussed the prospects for further development of a substantive dialogue between these international associations and Russia," the Russian leader concluded.
Source: www.nkibrics.ru
Russia is pleased that Malaysia has received the status of a BRICS partner state and will contribute to its organic and rapid inclusion in the group’s activities, Russian President Vladimir Putin said after talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
A category of BRICS partner states was established last year under Russia’s presidency in the group.
"We are happy that our Malaysian friends have accepted this invitation and will do our best to ensure that Malaysia quickly and organically joins the work of all BRICS partner mechanisms," Putin said.
He added that the countries are coordinating their efforts at other key multilateral venues, including the United Nations.
The positions of Russia and Malaysia on regional and global issues are "in many ways close or coincide. Our countries firmly defend the principles of the supremacy of international law, sovereignty, and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries," Putin added.
The Russian leader also stressed that during the Russian-Malaysian talks, issues related to promoting peaceful and sustainable development of the Asia-Pacific region were discussed, taking into account the fact that Malaysia is the current chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
"We also discussed the prospects for further development of a substantive dialogue between these international associations and Russia," the Russian leader concluded.
Investment and Finance
Investment and finance in BRICS
Colombia embarks on accession to BRICS NDB (Колумбия приступает к вступлению в Новый банк развития БРИКС) / Russia, May 2025
Keywords: brics+, expert_opinion, ndb
2025-05-20
2025-05-20
Russia
Source: brics-plus-analytics.org
In May 2025 Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro met with Dilma Rousseff, the President of the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB), and declared that Colombia would launch the process of accession to the BRICS New Development Bank. Earlier this year Colombia also declared that it would join China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), while back in 2024 the country’s authorities expressed the desire to join BRICS as a full-fledged member[1]. With the start of the country’s accession to NDB, this year may prove to be a breakthrough for Colombia in terms of its cooperation with BRICS as the country was invited to participate in the BRICS+ 2025 summit by Brazil – if the invitation is accepted and Colombia does attend the BRICS+ summit meetings this would be a further step towards establishing closer economic linkages of the country with the BRICS bloc.
For the BRICS NDB Colombia’s membership will provide greater scope for expanding its operations in South America, while also further building up the Bank’s capital base. As part of the NDB accession process Colombia is to contribute US$512.5 million to the bank’s capital, of which US$102.5 million is to be paid up front[2]. With respect to its economic weight Colombia is the second largest economy in South America in terms of population (more than 52 million people) and third in terms of the size of its economy. But the importance of Colombia for South America, the Global South and the New Development Bank stems to a significant degree also from its unique geography – it is a key economy that serves as a gateway from South America to Central America and the Caribbean. It borders five economies in South and Central America, coming on this count second only to Brazil in Latin America. Most importantly, it has coastal access to both the Atlantic and the Pacific, making it a key location for the bi-oceanic corridors traversing South America and a key connectivity factor in the region.
It is not surprising then that it was precisely the possibility of pursuing infrastructure connectivity projects connecting the Pacific and the Atlantic coast that was highlighted by Colombia’s President Petro in his communication about the country’s plans to become an NDB member. In particular, President Petro stated that the project that attracted the most interest from NDB was Colombia’s proposal to build a 120 km connection between the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean linking the Gulf of Urabá with Cupica in Chocó[3]. The creation of such bi-oceanic corridors in South America expands the alternatives to the existing pathways such as the Panama canal, lowers the costs of trans-continental shipments from South America and the region’s vulnerability to risks associated with the possible disruptions in the traditional transportation routes.
In this respect, for Colombia BRICS NDB membership expands the optionality of sources of financing, allowing it to complement existing lines of credit with additional concessionary financing. For high-cost projects such as infrastructure connectivity, Colombia could benefit from NDB co-financing such projects with the regional financial institutions such as Inter American Development Bank (IDB) and the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF).
In the end, the expansion in the ranks of the New Development Bank (NDB) may be considered as yet another track of BRICS expansion along with the widening of the core membership and the creation of the BRICS “partnership belt”. Colombia’s NDB membership may provide greater impetus to the Bank’s project operations in South America, a region of the Global South where BRICS expansion so far has been somewhat less emphatic compared to Africa and Asia. Brazil’s BRICS Presidency is clearly serving to bolster BRICS outreach to Latin America and the upcoming BRICS+ summit in July 2025 may provide further momentum to this trend.
[1] https://tvbrics.com/en/news/colombia-s-president-states-his-country-wants-to-join-brics/
[2] https://tvbrics.com/en/news/colombia-begins-process-of-joining-brics-new-development-bank/
[3] https://eir.news/2025/05/news/colombia-joins-belt-road-initiative-applies-to-join-the-brics-ndb-bank/
Yaroslav Lissovolik, Founder, BRICS+ Analytics
Source: brics-plus-analytics.org
In May 2025 Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro met with Dilma Rousseff, the President of the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB), and declared that Colombia would launch the process of accession to the BRICS New Development Bank. Earlier this year Colombia also declared that it would join China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), while back in 2024 the country’s authorities expressed the desire to join BRICS as a full-fledged member[1]. With the start of the country’s accession to NDB, this year may prove to be a breakthrough for Colombia in terms of its cooperation with BRICS as the country was invited to participate in the BRICS+ 2025 summit by Brazil – if the invitation is accepted and Colombia does attend the BRICS+ summit meetings this would be a further step towards establishing closer economic linkages of the country with the BRICS bloc.
For the BRICS NDB Colombia’s membership will provide greater scope for expanding its operations in South America, while also further building up the Bank’s capital base. As part of the NDB accession process Colombia is to contribute US$512.5 million to the bank’s capital, of which US$102.5 million is to be paid up front[2]. With respect to its economic weight Colombia is the second largest economy in South America in terms of population (more than 52 million people) and third in terms of the size of its economy. But the importance of Colombia for South America, the Global South and the New Development Bank stems to a significant degree also from its unique geography – it is a key economy that serves as a gateway from South America to Central America and the Caribbean. It borders five economies in South and Central America, coming on this count second only to Brazil in Latin America. Most importantly, it has coastal access to both the Atlantic and the Pacific, making it a key location for the bi-oceanic corridors traversing South America and a key connectivity factor in the region.
It is not surprising then that it was precisely the possibility of pursuing infrastructure connectivity projects connecting the Pacific and the Atlantic coast that was highlighted by Colombia’s President Petro in his communication about the country’s plans to become an NDB member. In particular, President Petro stated that the project that attracted the most interest from NDB was Colombia’s proposal to build a 120 km connection between the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean linking the Gulf of Urabá with Cupica in Chocó[3]. The creation of such bi-oceanic corridors in South America expands the alternatives to the existing pathways such as the Panama canal, lowers the costs of trans-continental shipments from South America and the region’s vulnerability to risks associated with the possible disruptions in the traditional transportation routes.
In this respect, for Colombia BRICS NDB membership expands the optionality of sources of financing, allowing it to complement existing lines of credit with additional concessionary financing. For high-cost projects such as infrastructure connectivity, Colombia could benefit from NDB co-financing such projects with the regional financial institutions such as Inter American Development Bank (IDB) and the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF).
In the end, the expansion in the ranks of the New Development Bank (NDB) may be considered as yet another track of BRICS expansion along with the widening of the core membership and the creation of the BRICS “partnership belt”. Colombia’s NDB membership may provide greater impetus to the Bank’s project operations in South America, a region of the Global South where BRICS expansion so far has been somewhat less emphatic compared to Africa and Asia. Brazil’s BRICS Presidency is clearly serving to bolster BRICS outreach to Latin America and the upcoming BRICS+ summit in July 2025 may provide further momentum to this trend.
[1] https://tvbrics.com/en/news/colombia-s-president-states-his-country-wants-to-join-brics/
[2] https://tvbrics.com/en/news/colombia-begins-process-of-joining-brics-new-development-bank/
[3] https://eir.news/2025/05/news/colombia-joins-belt-road-initiative-applies-to-join-the-brics-ndb-bank/
Yaroslav Lissovolik, Founder, BRICS+ Analytics
World of Work
SOCIAL POLICY, TRADE UNIONS, ACTIONS
BRICS joins forces to fight tuberculosis and strengthen vaccine production (БРИКС объединяет усилия для борьбы с туберкулезом и усиления производства вакцин) / Brazil, May 2025
Keywords: brics+, concluded_agreements, social_issues
2025-05-23
2025-05-23
Brazil
Source: brics.br
The 18th meeting of the BRICS Tuberculosis Research Network was held last week in Brasilia, aiming to strengthen joint studies among the countries to develop faster treatments and new immunizers against the disease
The 18th meeting of the BRICS Tuberculosis Research Network took place last week, bringing together, in person, the five founding countries of the group and the thematic network — Brasil, Russia, India, China, South Africa — as well as Ethiopia. During the meetings, researchers agreed to join efforts to expand partnerships in the development of new vaccines against the disease and to develop faster treatments.
“A large number of BRICS countries face a high burden of tuberculosis. India has the highest number of cases; South Africa is among the most affected; Brazil is also classified as a high-burden country; and Indonesia, which joined this year, currently ranks second in incidence. In this context, we face many challenges, and the network aims to work jointly to overcome them. So, we face many challenges, and this network aims to work together to overcome them. As a result of the meeting, we expect to identify key strategies to mobilize resources for this group, list the main research efforts and investment priorities, whether in vaccines or new drugs,” explained Fernanda Dockhorn Costa Johansen, General Coordinator of Surveillance for Tuberculosis, Endemic Mycoses and Nontubercular Mycobacteria at the Ministry of Health. She coordinated this meeting of the member countries.
"A vaccine specifically for tuberculosis has started its research process at Fiocruz, at Bio-Manguinhos, and is still in the very early stage of animal models. We hope to develop a national vaccine with a new RNA-based technology. We expect some news by 2030"
The creation of new vaccines to combat tuberculosis is among the priorities set by the network. Currently, the most widely used immunizer worldwide to prevent severe cases of tuberculosis is the BCG — administered in Brasil to newborns. However, this vaccine has some limitations.
“We are looking forward to the new vaccines, which should begin in 2029. And, of course, this will be a game changer, because the only vaccine currently available is BCG, which is over 100 years old. It is clearly not very effective. In fact, it only protects young children from developing severe forms of tuberculosis, such as tuberculous meningitis. Now we have the chance to reduce the tuberculosis incidence curve and accelerate progress toward eradicating the disease. This requires several years of preparatory work. We need to review regulatory principles in different countries. Assess the capacity to introduce these new products,” said Tereza Kasaeva, Director of the Global Tuberculosis Programme and Lung Health at the World Health Organization (WHO).
The BRICS tuberculosis network aims to participate in clinical trials of new vaccines being developed globally. One of them is Brazilian and currently under research at Fiocruz. “A vaccine specifically for tuberculosis has started its research process at Fiocruz, at Bio-Manguinhos, and is still in the very early stage of animal models. We hope to develop a national vaccine with a new RNA-based technology. We expect some news by 2030,” detailed Fernanda Johansen.
Excellence"BRICS countries are not only a major political power, but they are also recognized for their expertise in various areas related to global health. Here we are discussing tuberculosis, in particular. We must say that not only do BRICS countries account for over 50% of the global tuberculosis burden, but all major specialists are in BRICS countries"
WHO representative Tereza Kasaeva praised Brasil’s pioneering role in attempting to develop a national tuberculosis vaccine. “This was a very inspiring move. Brasil made the decision to renew vaccine production in the country. And this local manufacturing is another important tool. Because dependency on certain foreign manufacturers is one of the reasons why access is not always timely, not equitable, and why vaccines and other products are not accessible to most of the population,” she said.
“BRICS countries are not only a major political power, but they are also recognized for their expertise in various areas related to global health. Here we are discussing tuberculosis, in particular. We must say that not only do BRICS countries account for over 50% of the global tuberculosis burden, but all major specialists are in BRICS countries. If we look at what has been done in terms of new tools introduced, new guidelines, new strategies, BRICS representatives played a central role in all of these efforts,” Kasaeva also noted.
Finally, the WHO representative stated that BRICS can become a leader in global health. “The world is looking to BRICS with great expectation, declaring its willingness and prioritizing global health on its agenda. The world seeks this leadership and needs it right now, in this challenging moment. And we hope that BRICS countries make this clear,” she said.
Speed
Another point highlighted by the group is the need for faster tuberculosis treatment, as explained by Sanjay Kumar, India’s representative in the BRICS Tuberculosis Research Network.
"We now hope, under Brasil’s leadership this year, to seek new funding sources to keep research initiatives going"
“If you look at the simple form of tuberculosis, patients need to continue treatment for six months. When it comes to complex, drug-resistant tuberculosis, the duration becomes even longer. Right now, we are achieving good results with the drug BIPAL-M. Before that, the treatment duration could be up to two or three years, with multiple medications being administered,” said the Indian delegate.
Funding for this type of research is also a concern for member countries. “We now hope, under Brasil’s leadership this year, to seek new funding sources to keep research initiatives going. In particular, there has been a significant drop in research due to financial dependence on countries outside the group,” warned Barry Kistnasamy, Health Compensation Commissioner of South Africa.
“We need to strengthen these exchanges, as well as the flow of products coming from different countries, whether they be new vaccine trials or new medications. There has been some collaboration in multinational trials, but not enough, so we need to deepen this process. We need to start looking at new mechanisms of collaboration and how to fund them,” added the South African representative.
English version Luana Ferreira de Freitas/UFC/POET
Proofreading Kelvis Santiago do Nascimento/UFC/POET
Source: brics.br
The 18th meeting of the BRICS Tuberculosis Research Network was held last week in Brasilia, aiming to strengthen joint studies among the countries to develop faster treatments and new immunizers against the disease
The 18th meeting of the BRICS Tuberculosis Research Network took place last week, bringing together, in person, the five founding countries of the group and the thematic network — Brasil, Russia, India, China, South Africa — as well as Ethiopia. During the meetings, researchers agreed to join efforts to expand partnerships in the development of new vaccines against the disease and to develop faster treatments.
“A large number of BRICS countries face a high burden of tuberculosis. India has the highest number of cases; South Africa is among the most affected; Brazil is also classified as a high-burden country; and Indonesia, which joined this year, currently ranks second in incidence. In this context, we face many challenges, and the network aims to work jointly to overcome them. So, we face many challenges, and this network aims to work together to overcome them. As a result of the meeting, we expect to identify key strategies to mobilize resources for this group, list the main research efforts and investment priorities, whether in vaccines or new drugs,” explained Fernanda Dockhorn Costa Johansen, General Coordinator of Surveillance for Tuberculosis, Endemic Mycoses and Nontubercular Mycobacteria at the Ministry of Health. She coordinated this meeting of the member countries.
"A vaccine specifically for tuberculosis has started its research process at Fiocruz, at Bio-Manguinhos, and is still in the very early stage of animal models. We hope to develop a national vaccine with a new RNA-based technology. We expect some news by 2030"
The creation of new vaccines to combat tuberculosis is among the priorities set by the network. Currently, the most widely used immunizer worldwide to prevent severe cases of tuberculosis is the BCG — administered in Brasil to newborns. However, this vaccine has some limitations.
“We are looking forward to the new vaccines, which should begin in 2029. And, of course, this will be a game changer, because the only vaccine currently available is BCG, which is over 100 years old. It is clearly not very effective. In fact, it only protects young children from developing severe forms of tuberculosis, such as tuberculous meningitis. Now we have the chance to reduce the tuberculosis incidence curve and accelerate progress toward eradicating the disease. This requires several years of preparatory work. We need to review regulatory principles in different countries. Assess the capacity to introduce these new products,” said Tereza Kasaeva, Director of the Global Tuberculosis Programme and Lung Health at the World Health Organization (WHO).
The BRICS tuberculosis network aims to participate in clinical trials of new vaccines being developed globally. One of them is Brazilian and currently under research at Fiocruz. “A vaccine specifically for tuberculosis has started its research process at Fiocruz, at Bio-Manguinhos, and is still in the very early stage of animal models. We hope to develop a national vaccine with a new RNA-based technology. We expect some news by 2030,” detailed Fernanda Johansen.
Excellence"BRICS countries are not only a major political power, but they are also recognized for their expertise in various areas related to global health. Here we are discussing tuberculosis, in particular. We must say that not only do BRICS countries account for over 50% of the global tuberculosis burden, but all major specialists are in BRICS countries"
WHO representative Tereza Kasaeva praised Brasil’s pioneering role in attempting to develop a national tuberculosis vaccine. “This was a very inspiring move. Brasil made the decision to renew vaccine production in the country. And this local manufacturing is another important tool. Because dependency on certain foreign manufacturers is one of the reasons why access is not always timely, not equitable, and why vaccines and other products are not accessible to most of the population,” she said.
“BRICS countries are not only a major political power, but they are also recognized for their expertise in various areas related to global health. Here we are discussing tuberculosis, in particular. We must say that not only do BRICS countries account for over 50% of the global tuberculosis burden, but all major specialists are in BRICS countries. If we look at what has been done in terms of new tools introduced, new guidelines, new strategies, BRICS representatives played a central role in all of these efforts,” Kasaeva also noted.
Finally, the WHO representative stated that BRICS can become a leader in global health. “The world is looking to BRICS with great expectation, declaring its willingness and prioritizing global health on its agenda. The world seeks this leadership and needs it right now, in this challenging moment. And we hope that BRICS countries make this clear,” she said.
Speed
Another point highlighted by the group is the need for faster tuberculosis treatment, as explained by Sanjay Kumar, India’s representative in the BRICS Tuberculosis Research Network.
"We now hope, under Brasil’s leadership this year, to seek new funding sources to keep research initiatives going"
“If you look at the simple form of tuberculosis, patients need to continue treatment for six months. When it comes to complex, drug-resistant tuberculosis, the duration becomes even longer. Right now, we are achieving good results with the drug BIPAL-M. Before that, the treatment duration could be up to two or three years, with multiple medications being administered,” said the Indian delegate.
Funding for this type of research is also a concern for member countries. “We now hope, under Brasil’s leadership this year, to seek new funding sources to keep research initiatives going. In particular, there has been a significant drop in research due to financial dependence on countries outside the group,” warned Barry Kistnasamy, Health Compensation Commissioner of South Africa.
“We need to strengthen these exchanges, as well as the flow of products coming from different countries, whether they be new vaccine trials or new medications. There has been some collaboration in multinational trials, but not enough, so we need to deepen this process. We need to start looking at new mechanisms of collaboration and how to fund them,” added the South African representative.
English version Luana Ferreira de Freitas/UFC/POET
Proofreading Kelvis Santiago do Nascimento/UFC/POET
BRICS to consider information security issues at its next summit — Russian MFA (БРИКС рассмотрит вопросы информационной безопасности на своем следующем саммите — МИД России) / Russia, May 2025
Keywords: brics+, cybersecurity, cooperation
2025-05-19
2025-05-19
Russia
Source: www.nkibrics.ru
BRICS plans to consider information security issues at its summit in July, said Artur Lyukmanov, the Russian president’s special envoy for international cooperation in the field of information security.
The official, who is also director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Department of International Information Security, made the statement on the sidelines of the international economic forum "Russia - Islamic World: KazanForum."
"Of course. This has always been on the BRICS agenda and will remain so," he said when asked whether information security issues will come up for discussion at the upcoming summit.
Lyukmanov mentioned that BRICS has a working group on security issues in the field of information and communication technologies.
"The working group on ICT security held a meeting a month ago, in April. We came to an agreement on several decisions that will be brought to the country level," the diplomat said.
According to Lyukmanov, all BRICS member countries realize the need to give priority to regulation of issues pertaining to the use of information and communication technology in order to "ensure law and order, prevent conflicts between nations and neutralize the consequences of the use of ICT for malicious purposes."
About the forum
The 16th International Economic Forum "Russia - Islamic World: KazanForum" is taking place from May 13 to 18 in Kazan. The main theme in 2025 is "Digitalization: a new reality and additional opportunities for expanding cooperation." Representatives of more than 100 countries have confirmed their participation in the forum.
Source: www.nkibrics.ru
BRICS plans to consider information security issues at its summit in July, said Artur Lyukmanov, the Russian president’s special envoy for international cooperation in the field of information security.
The official, who is also director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Department of International Information Security, made the statement on the sidelines of the international economic forum "Russia - Islamic World: KazanForum."
"Of course. This has always been on the BRICS agenda and will remain so," he said when asked whether information security issues will come up for discussion at the upcoming summit.
Lyukmanov mentioned that BRICS has a working group on security issues in the field of information and communication technologies.
"The working group on ICT security held a meeting a month ago, in April. We came to an agreement on several decisions that will be brought to the country level," the diplomat said.
According to Lyukmanov, all BRICS member countries realize the need to give priority to regulation of issues pertaining to the use of information and communication technology in order to "ensure law and order, prevent conflicts between nations and neutralize the consequences of the use of ICT for malicious purposes."
About the forum
The 16th International Economic Forum "Russia - Islamic World: KazanForum" is taking place from May 13 to 18 in Kazan. The main theme in 2025 is "Digitalization: a new reality and additional opportunities for expanding cooperation." Representatives of more than 100 countries have confirmed their participation in the forum.
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