In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 19

⚪ Systemic dialogue between the EAEU and BRICS will help develop industrial cooperation

⚪ Kenya to gain new opportunities if it joins BRICS

⚪ BRICS scientists meet in Brazil to prioritise joint research in neuroscience and biotechnology

⚪ Indonesia supports Thailand’s efforts to be a BRICS member

#ExpertCouncilDIGEST

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Expert view: Malaysia seeks partnership with BRICS

Alexander Korolev, political scientist, Candidate of Sciences (PhD) in Political Science, and Deputy Director of the Centre for Comprehensive European and International Studies (CCEIS) at HSE University, highlighted a pivotal foreign policy event of the week: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Russia which took place from May 13 to 16, 2025.

According to Dr Korolev, the discussions between the Malaysian leader and Russian President Vladimir Putin, along with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, held special significance. During these talks, Anwar Ibrahim articulated Malaysia's keen interest in deeper integration with BRICS and its readiness to forge a strategic partnership with its member nations. The Russian side reciprocated, expressing a strong commitment to facilitate Malaysia's inclusion in the #BRICS agenda as a partner state.

Alexander Korolev emphasised that beyond its political and diplomatic significance, the Malaysian Prime Minister's visit took on a vital substantive dimension. Anwar Ibrahim actively promoted topics focused on innovations, including the development of artificial intelligence, digitalisation of public administration, climate technologies, and Islamic banking. These areas could emerge as vital components of the BRICS agenda moving forward, enhancing the group's relevance and depth.

"Russia's BRICS partners are actively seeking digital transformation, AI solutions, and innovative frameworks within the group," the expert observed.

He pointed out that BRICS has the potential to pioneer international discussions on new strategies for climate regulation and artificial intelligence management, making the integration of such initiatives particularly timely.

This text reflects the personal opinion of the author, which may not align with the position of the BRICS Expert Council-Russia.

#EXPERT #Malaysia #RussiaMalaysia #politics

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Expert view: Russia and Iran forge alternative payment architecture

Alexander Korolev, political scientist, Candidate of Sciences (PhD) in Political Science, and Deputy Director of the Centre for Comprehensive European and International Studies (CCEIS) at HSE University, highlighted that along with Anwar Ibrahim's visit, the successful completion of the second stage in integrating the MIR (Russia) and Shetab (Iran) payment systems was another important event. This milestone marks a crucial achievement as both nations are members of BRICS and actively champion the establishment of an alternative payment architecture.

"Among all BRICS countries, Russia and Iran are at the forefront, vigorously advocating for not only a shift to alternative currencies and de-dollarisation but also the development of a new payment system within BRICS," emphasised Alexander Korolev.

While the integration is still unfolding on a bilateral level, its potential for replication and expansion is substantial. If executed successfully, the experience of Russia and Iran could serve as a model for countries like China, India, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian partners. A key element in this process is the adoption of modern technological solutions, such as QR codes and digital identifiers, which transforms the initiative into a blend of financial and technological innovation.

Thus, both events—Anwar Ibrahim’s visit and the advanced integration of payment systems—signal that #BRICS is evolving to a new stage: transitioning from political dialogue and coordination to tangible strategic content and the establishment of a functional infrastructure for a future multipolar world.

This text reflects the personal opinion of the author, which may not align with the position of the BRICS Expert Council-Russia.

#EXPERT #Iran #RussiaIran #finance

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 20

⚪ BRICS New Development Bank emerges as new pillar of global economic cooperation

⚪ Congolese women entrepreneurs shine: BRICS opens the doors to success

⚪ Africa’s largest natural gas exporter Algeria sparks interest in joining #BRICS

⚪ The international Arctic station "Snezhinka" on Yamal may become a joint project of the BRICS countries

#ExpertCouncilDIGEST

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Fight against poverty and inequality unites Russia and Brazil

Russia and Brazil have made significant progress in implementing targeted programmes for impoverished families. These initiatives not only provide direct financial aid but also encourage families to engage actively in the workforce, entrepreneurship, and subsistence farming, says Lilia Ovcharova, expert, Doctor of Sciences, and Director of the Institute for Social Policy at HSE University.

A round table on combating poverty and inequality took place during the visit of Brazil's First Lady, Janja Lula da Silva, to HSE University. Dr Ovcharova shared her insights on how the social programmes of both nations can contribute to the global fight against poverty.

The expert underscored the vital principle of mutual obligations that underpins these programmes. Key measures, including raising the minimum wage, supporting small businesses, and launching social initiatives for the most vulnerable groups, form the foundation of policies aimed at alleviating poverty and inequality in both countries. Brazil's experience with the Bolsa Família programme can offer valuable insights for Russia, particularly in supporting large families and enhancing access to education.

📎 Read the full article on the official website of the BRICS Expert Council-Russia

#HSEUniversity #Brazil #RussiaBrazil

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 21

⚪ Brazil hosts 10th BRICS Energy Ministerial Meeting and consolidates consensus around energy transition agenda

⚪ PBIA takes center stage at BRICS AI Forum with supercomputer and industrial innovation goals

⚪ Chile and its willingness to join #BRICS is being watched closely

⚪ BRICS expansion unlocks new potential for global renewable energy leadership

⚪ Ethiopia, South Africa eye stronger tourism ties under BRICS

#ExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 22

⚪ President Prabowo supports Thailand's accession to BRICS

⚪ BRICS industry ministers reaffirm commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development

⚪ Algeria finalises its accession to the New Development Bank of #BRICS

⚪ Multilateral сooperation in India-Russia ties: a decadal review of BRICS and SCO

#ExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 23

Key developments unfolding right now in the BRICS world:

⚪ BRICS conclude Understanding on Data Economy Governance

⚪ BRICS nations approve joint roadmap to boost entrepreneurship

⚪ Indonesia, Ethiopia eye stronger economic, #BRICS cooperation

⚪ Russia proposes strengthening inter-parliamentary ties with UAE in BRICS

#ExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 24

Key developments unfolding right now in the BRICS world:

⚪ No BRICS asset pile big enough to rival dollar, Brazil central bank director says

➖ The West fears Malaysia's rapprochement with Russia and China

➖ Brazilian President invites Angolan counterpart to attend #BRICS Summit

➖ India urges BRICS to remove export controls in bloc

#ExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 25

Key developments unfolding right now in the BRICS world:

⚪ Brazil’s chairship in BRICS: Opportunities and challenges

⚪ Argentina, Colombia to showcase plays at Moscow theater festival

⚪ Singapore’s strategic pivot: partnering with #BRICS in a multipolar world

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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BRICS strengthens financial and economic co-operation: new NDB shareholder and SMEs support plan

During the week spanning May 19–23, 2025, two significant developments marked the progress of cooperation among the #BRICS nations in the financial and economic realm. First, Algeria officially joined the New Development Bank (NDB) as a shareholder. Second, the 9th Meeting of BRICS Industry Ministers, held in Brazil's capital, culminated in the adoption of the inaugural Action Plan for the Development of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) for 2025–2030, outlined in the Joint Declaration. Russia played a pivotal role in implementing both initiatives within the group.

"With Algeria's accession to the NDB, the number of member states in this multilateral development bank has risen to nine, including the founding members Brazil, India, China, Russia, and South Africa, along with Bangladesh, Egypt, and the UAE, which joined between 2021 and 2023. This expansion will enhance the NDB’s operational geography, diversify its project portfolio, advance cooperation among member nations, and elevate its standing among global and regional development banks.
Additionally, the 9th Meeting of BRICS Industry Ministers officially endorsed the establishment of the BRICS Centre for Industrial Competencies (BCIC), which took place a month ago in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Initiated by Russia in 2020, this centre marks a significant step toward harnessing knowledge and technology for optimal engagement with Industry 4.0 advancements across the BRICS nations. For the SME sector, leveraging digitalisation, robotisation, and other innovative developments is crucial for boosting competitiveness and successfully integrating into regional and global value chains. The implementation of the Action Plan for the Development of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) for 2025–2030 by the BRICS nations will facilitate systematic progress in these crucial areas", the expert noted.

#NEWS #EXPERT #BRICSExpertCouncil #Algeria #NDB

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📖 Word of the week: New Development Bank

This week is dedicated to the term ‘New Development Bank’ (NDB). The NDB is a key player among international financial institutions. The Bank was established to support infrastructure and sustainable development projects in the BRICS countries, as well as in other developing countries.

📍 Foundation of the bank

The idea of establishing the New Development Bank was proposed by India at the 4th BRICS Summit in New Delhi in 2012. The political decision to establish it was endorsed by the BRICS leaders at the 5th BRICS Summit in Durban 27 March 2013.

One of the main reasons for the establishment of the NDB was the dissatisfaction of the #BRICS members regarding their lack of influence in organisations such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

The agreement to establish the NDB was signed on 15 July 2014 on the first day of the 6th BRICS Summit in Fortaleza, Brazil. Following this, Russian President Vladimir Putin ratified the agreement on 8 March 2015. In July 2015, the first meeting of the NDB's Board of Governors was held in Moscow to launch the bank's official operations.

⭐ Main objectives

The primary role of the New Development Bank is to finance infrastructure and sustainable projects around the world. This can include the construction of roads, bridges, energy facilities and other critical infrastructure elements that contribute to economic growth and improve the quality of life.

The Bank actively supports projects that help develop economies, create jobs and improve environmental standards in developing countries. In addition, the NDB pays special attention to projects related to renewable energy and energy efficiency, which contributes to the fight against climate change.

📊 Impact and achievements

Since 2018, the New Development Bank has financed nearly 100 projects worth $33 billion. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasised that increasing the share of settlements in local currencies helps to reduce geopolitical risks and strengthen the financial independence of BRICS countries.

At a meeting with NDB President Dilma Rousseff at the 2024 BRICS Summit in Kazan, it was noted that the bank has already channelled funds to a number of important projects and continues to look for ways to work more efficiently. Rousseff noted that many countries need financial support and the NDB can play a key role in this process.

The New Development Bank demonstrates not only financial support, but also strategic importance for BRICS member countries, providing them with tools to achieve economic sustainability and independence.

#BRICSExpertCouncil #BRICSExpertCouncilRussia #NDB #Summit #wordoftheweek

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 26

Key developments unfolding right now in the BRICS world:

⚪ Indonesia, Ethiopia eye stronger economic, BRICS cooperation

⚪ What future awaits the expanded BRICS

⚪ #BRICS shifts trade away from US dollar

⚪ ASEAN-GCC-China cooperation a new "golden triangle" in global affairs

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 27

Key developments unfolding right now in the BRICS world:

⚪ Russia expanding BRICS New Development Bank financing in national currencies

⚪ South Africa nurtures agricultural ties with Russia and Global South against external pressure

⚪ India seeks #BRICS cultural and civilisational leadership

⚪ BRICS represents new initiative as cohesive force within Global South

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 28

Top stories shaping BRICS today—stay informed in minutes

⚪ Yevgeny Terekhin emphasised that BRICS membership serving as impetus for Ethiopia's economic growth, global standing

⚪ #BRICS security chiefs meeting held with Iran’s participation

⚪ Path to better Russia-US ties difficult but Moscow ready for honest dialogue

⚪ Russia expanding BRICS New Development Bank financing in national currencies

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 29

Your quick rundown of the most important BRICS updates today

⚪ Lavrov noted that West sees great power conflict as inevitable, Russia-China relations disprove it

⚪ BRICS: a challenge to Western-led institutional architecture?

⚪ Brazil concludes preparatory stage for BRICS Sports Ministers Meeting

⚪ Brazil hosts #BRICS Culture Ministers Meeting

⚪ BRICS with a new platform for multi-million dollar investments

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 30

Top highlights from the BRICS world—economics, politics, and more

⚪ Kazakhstan has no plans to join BRICS as a full member in the near future

⚪ Launching a multifunctional investment platform will help attract up to USD 100 billion of annual investment in BRICS and Global South countries

⚪ Brazil leads BRICS amid growing US-China tensions

⚪ SCO and BRICS valuable opportunities for Iran

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for May 31

Most essential BRICS news and headlines at a glance

⚪ The comprehensive high-level international dialogue on the future architecture of global security has definitively dispelled the myth of Russia’s isolation

⚪ Ghanaian MP: BRICS is the best thing that will ever happen

⚪ Chinese silk gained popularity among BRICS nations and Belt and Road countries

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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In touch with BRICS: news digest for June 1

A snapshot of BRICS today—what’s moving markets and shaping policies

⚪ BRICS presents updated emissions targets and native vegetation restoration strategy

⚪ Global digital forum agenda: BRICS and sovereignty, AI, sybersecurity

⚪ Brazilian Ministry of Education to hold BRICS educational meetings

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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Research Seminar: "Prospects and Features of Responsible Business in BRICS"

As the global economy undergoes transformation, the role of BRICS nations in advancing sustainable development is becoming increasingly prominent. Business responsibility is a cornerstone of national sustainability, and the unique characteristics of responsible business practices across the #BRICS countries play a pivotal role in this dynamic. On June 11, experts from the Laboratory of Responsible Business at HSE University will discuss the key challenges and opportunities for responsible business development across Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, focusing on their distinct national traits:

✔ What are the national characteristics of responsible business in the #BRICS countries?
✔ What are the prevailing trends shaping responsible business in these nations?

🗣️ Format: Online
🔥 Date and Time: June 11, 11:00–13:00 (Moscow)
❕ Language: English

📎 Registration is available on the website.

#EVENTS

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Vladimir Putin extended the powers of Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a decree extending Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov’s term of office until July 8, 2026. The official document was published on the legal information portal.

Born in 1960, Sergey Ryabkov graduated from MGIMO University in 1982. He has held various diplomatic roles both at the Ministry's central office and abroad. Since August 2008, he has served as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, overseeing bilateral relations with the United States and Latin America, as well as issues related to non-proliferation, arms control, the Iranian nuclear programme, and Russia's participation in #BRICS.

#NEWS #diplomacy

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