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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Russia to prepare roadmap for substantive negotiations with BRICS countries on creating grain exchange

Russia is set to formulate a strategic plan for in-depth discussions with the BRICS nations about establishing the BRICS Grain Exchange, reported Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev's office after a meeting focused on the creation and operation of the exchange.

"The Russian Ministry of Economic Development unveiled proposals for creating the exchange and defining its operational model. The meeting concluded with a decision to prepare a roadmap for in-depth negotiations with the BRICS nations to advance the project," the office stated.

The BRICS Grain Exchange will lay the groundwork for developing independent price benchmarks within the group, Patrushev said. Ultimately, this initiative will foster a more objective valuation of agricultural products in global markets.

"The establishment of the #BRICS Grain Exchange will reduce reliance on Western trading platforms while creating essential infrastructure to enhance the grain market's efficiency," the Deputy Prime Minister remarked.

#NEWS #trade

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BRICS Student Games project presented in Russian Civic Chamber

The BRICS Student Games project was unveiled at the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation. Project manager Anna Vershinskaya emphasised that the initiative "aligns with the international agenda, placing Russia and its capabilities at the forefront of this foreign policy direction while addressing several pressing social issues domestically."

The BRICS Student Games programme features the most popular sports across the BRICS nations, including boxing, tennis, football, swimming, athletics, and rhythmic gymnastics.

The competition is set to take place in 2026.

#NEWS #sport

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Brazil’s Finance Ministry sees citizen engagement as transformative force in BRICS economic and financial discussions

During Brazil’s Chairship in BRICS, the group continues to strengthen its role in promoting multilateralism amid current geopolitical challenges. The University of Brasília (UnB) hosted the BRICS Week, an event aimed at fostering exchanges among academics, government officials, and civil society, with a focus on tax justice, reforming the international financial system, and ensuring financing for equitable social protection.

Ambassador Tatiana Rosito, Secretary for International Affairs at Brazil’s Ministry of Finance, underscored the continuity from Brazil’s G20 Chairship, highlighting BRICS' vital role in transformation and stabilisation, particularly in championing multilateralism and addressing the disparities between developed and developing nations. André Roncaglia, Brazil’s Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), emphasised that #BRICS can evolve beyond a mere discussion forum, aiming to address the IMF's shortcomings in supporting the Global South, especially in conflict-ridden or unstable regions.

Brazil’s Chairship in BRICS prioritises democratic global governance, with the Ministry of Finance advocating for civil society dialogue as a cornerstone of inclusive policy-making, building on initiatives launched in earlier meetings in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo this year.

#NEWS #Brazil #finance

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Cuba's Minister of Communications highlights republic's priorities as BRICS partner

The ongoing partnership with BRICS opens up new opportunities for Cuba in science, technology, and international cooperation. This insight was shared by Cuba's Minister of Communications Mayra Arevich Marín.

"Currently, the most exciting projects revolve around artificial intelligence, which we can cultivate right here in Cuba. These innovations hold promise not just for our people but for fellow BRICS nations as well. We recognise the potential," she remarked.

Cuba achieved #BRICS partner country status in 2024 and has since been actively pursuing collaborative initiatives. The Minister highlighted that this partnership has already elevated the status of the Havana Science and Technology Park.

Ms Marín also emphasised that Cuba’s focus extends beyond technology; it embraces social development too. She noted that President Miguel Díaz-Canel has pinpointed three pivotal areas: enhancing digital environment, bolstering social initiatives, and advancing education, particularly in modern IT disciplines.

#NEWS #Cuba #AI

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Belarus is interested in building contacts with BRICS members

Belarus is ready to join BRICS as a full-fledged member, shared Sergey Rachkov, Chairman of the Standing Commission of the House of Representatives on International Affairs of the National Assembly of Belarus. He spoke at the 1st meeting of the Chairs of the Foreign Affairs Committees of BRICS Parliaments titled "Strengthening BRICS Trade in the Current International Scenario," which took place on the sidelines of the 11th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in Brasília.

"Currently, Belarus engages with BRICS as a partner state, but our ultimate ambition is to secure full membership. We have consistently shown our commitment to partnerships and parliamentary diplomacy. In light of sanctions and economic upheaval, a united response to challenges is more crucial than ever. As one of the world's leading exporters of potash fertilisers, select food products, and agricultural machinery and technologies, Belarus seeks to forge stronger ties with the BRICS nations," Rachkov emphasised.

The Eurasian Economic Union (#EAEU), where Belarus is a member, is also actively expanding trade and economic collaboration with #BRICS nations through existing agreements, memoranda, and ongoing negotiations.

"Amidst global transformations, the advantages of partnerships among the BRICS countries are clear, and Belarus stands ready to join as a full-fledged member," Rachkov concluded.

#NEWS #Belarus #diplomacy

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