Tag: brics

Categories
-Top News Arab News World News

BRICS Decries Gaza Violence

The ministers also called for the effective implementation of the UNSC resolution for an “immediate, durable, and sustained ceasefire…reports Asian Lite News

The BRICS Foreign Ministers expressed “grave concern” regarding the escalating violence in the Gaza Strip that has led to mass civilian displacement, death and casualties, and destruction of civilian infrastructure.

The ministers also called for the effective implementation of the UNSC resolution for an “immediate, durable, and sustained ceasefire” and the relevant UNGA resolutions and UNSC resolution for immediate safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

The conflict escalated on October 7 after Hamas launched a massive terror attack on Israel killing over 1200 people and holding around 250 as hostages.

Following this, Israel launched a strong counteroffensive, carrying out military operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip with the aim of “completely eliminating” Hamas. However, the operations have led to massive civilian casualties with over 37,000 Palestinians have been killed.

“The Ministers expressed grave concern at the deterioration of the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, in particular the unprecedented escalation of violence in the Gaza Strip as a result of the Israeli military operation that led to mass civilian displacement, death and casualties, and destruction of civilian infrastructure,” the joint statement of BRICS foreign ministers meeting read.

“In this regard, they called for the effective implementation of the relevant UNGA resolutions and UNSC resolution 2720 and for immediate safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale directly to the Palestinian civilian population throughout the Gaza Strip. They also called for the effective implementation of the UNSC resolution 2728 for an immediate, durable, and sustained ceasefire,” it added.

The Foreign Ministers met at the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Russia’s Nizhny Novgorod on Monday.

Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations), at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), led the Indian side at the meeting, in what was the first foreign assignment for India’s foreign policy under the historic third consecutive term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The ministers also called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and civilians who are being illegally held captive, the joint statement read.

They further expressed grave concern by the increasing attacks by Israel on Rafah, which would compound the dire humanitarian situation. The ministers condemned the Israeli military operation in Rafah and its ramifications that directly impact civilian lives, especially in view of the “high density of Palestinian civilians in this location”, and the “humanitarian catastrophic” results due to the suspension of the Rafah crossing from the Palestinian side.

The ministers also reaffirmed their rejection of any attempt aiming at forcefully displacing, expelling, or transferring the Palestinian people from their land. Furthermore, they cautioned against the spillover effects of the escalation of tensions to the rest of the Middle East region.

They acknowledged the provisional measures of the International Court of Justice in the legal proceedings instituted by South Africa against Israel. The Ministers expressed serious concern at “Israel’s continued blatant disregard” of international law, the UN Charter, UN resolutions and Court orders.

“The Ministers reaffirmed their support for Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations and reiterated their unwavering commitment to the vision of the two-state solution based on international law including relevant UNSC and UNGA resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative that includes the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine in line with internationally recognized borders of June 1967 with East Jerusalem as its capital living side by side in peace and security with Israel,” the statement read.

The ministers expressed serious concern over the prevailing conflicts and the continuing threats posed by terrorist organizations in various sub-regions of Africa and over remaining conflict potential in the Sahel region, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Great Lakes Region, and in the Horn of Africa, particularly in Sudan as well as growing activity of numerous terrorist groups and insurgents.

The Ministers reiterated their call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and peaceful resolution of the conflict in Sudan and unimpeded access of the Sudanese population to humanitarian assistance, and the scaling up of humanitarian assistance to Sudan and neighboring states.

The Foreign Ministers expressed serious concern with the ongoing deterioration of the security, humanitarian, political and economic situation in Haiti.

“They stressed that the current crisis requires a Haitian-led solution that encompasses national dialogue and consensus building among local political forces, institutions and the society and called on the international community to support the Haitian endeavours to dismantle the gangs, enhance the security situation and put in place the foundations for long-lasting social and economic development in the country,” the statement read.

The Ministers also emphasized the need for an urgent peaceful settlement in Afghanistan in order to strengthen regional security and stability.

They advocated for Afghanistan as an independent, united and peaceful state free from terrorism, war and drugs. They urged for more visible and verifiable measures in Afghanistan to ensure that the territory of Afghanistan is not used by terrorists.

“They further stressed the need to provide urgent and uninterrupted humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people and to safeguard the fundamental rights of all Afghans including women, girls, and different ethnic groups. They emphasized the primary and effective role of regional platforms and neighbouring countries of Afghanistan and welcomed the efforts of such regional platforms and initiatives to facilitate the Afghan settlement,” the statement added.

This is the first meeting of foreign ministers since the expansion of BRICS in 2023. The 10 full members of the association include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa with new members Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia joining the grouping in 2023.

Russia took over the chairmanship of BRICS on January 1, 2024. (ANI)

ALSO READ: India participates in BRICS FMs Meet in Russia

Categories
-Top News Europe India News

India participates in BRICS FMs Meet in Russia

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov opened the BRICS Ministerial with a minute of silence in memory of the deceased former Iran President Ebrahim Raisi and foreign minister…reports Asian Lite News

India participated in the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting which began in Russia’s Nizhny Novgorod on Monday, the first assignment for India’s foreign policy under the historic third consecutive term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations), at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), led the Indian side at the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov opened the BRICS Ministerial with a minute of silence in memory of the deceased former Iran President Ebrahim Raisi and Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. He offered condolences to the people of Iran and the families of the victims.

South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor, Brazil’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mauro Vieira, UAE’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shokri and several other distinguished guests participated in the meeting. Heads of delegations also posed for a family photo ahead of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting.

While sharing the picture of leaders on X, the Russian Foreign Ministry stated, “Heads of delegations take part in the traditional #FamilyPhoto ceremony ahead of the #BRICS Ministerial.”

This is the first meeting of foreign ministers since the expansion of BRICS in 2023. The 10 full members of the association include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa with new members Egypt, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Ethiopia joining the grouping in 2023.

Russia took over the chairmanship of BRICS on January 1, 2024.

In his opening remarks at the BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting, Sergey Lavrov said, “We are glad to welcome you to one of the oldest cities in Russia, Nizhny Novgorod, whose history goes back more than 800 years,” according to the translation of the speech released by Russian Foreign Ministry.

“Today’s meeting will certainly leave a special mark not only in the chronicle of the city’s leading international events but also in the BRICS itself. For the first time, a meeting of the heads of foreign policy departments of the association is being held in a new, expanded composition,” he added.

He noted that the expansion of BRICS is a “clear confirmation of the process of formation of a multipolar world order.” He further said, “New centres for making globally significant political decisions are emerging from among the states of the Global South and East, from the states of the World Majority. These countries advocate a more just way of life based on the sovereign equality of states and civilizational diversity.”

He accused the US and its allies of not abandoning attempts to maintain their elusive dominance and slow down the objective processes of the formation of multipolarity.

Lavrov further said, “At the same time, they use economic instruments as weapons – through sanctions pressure and financial blackmail they try to influence the choice of development models and trading partners by sovereign states. The West does not shy away from using force. Examples are known to everyone: Yugoslavia, Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, Syria, Ukraine and several other countries. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.”

He stated that Russia stands for a more equitable world order based on the sovereign equality of states and taking into account the balance of forces and interests, according to the translation of his speech released by the Russian Foreign Ministry.

Lavrov said, “Recent international events have ‘thrown off the masks’ from those who until now had verbally claimed almost the exclusive right to define ‘universal values’ under the guise of a ‘rules-based order.’ Supporters of this concept are trying to impose norms and mechanisms of interaction that are beneficial only to them, to replace equal, honest dialogue with narrow coalitions that operate in secret and arrogate to themselves the right to speak and act on behalf of the whole world.”

“Russia, like the countries of the World Majority, stands for a more equitable world order, based on the sovereign equality of states and taking into account the balance of forces and interests. Together we aim to advance a forward-looking, constructive international agenda. An important task in this context is strengthening the role of interstate formats that advocate collective approaches to international development,” he added.

The Russian Foreign Minister called BRICS one of those associations where the principles of equal cooperation are implemented in deeds. He expressed confidence that BRICS is driven forward by the wind of change, as its role in solving global problems will only increase.

Lavrov further said, “In this context, we expect productive discussions at a separate session today with the participation of several like-minded BRICS countries.” (ANI)

ALSO READ: Cabinet gives nod to build 3 crore houses for poor

Categories
-Top News World World News

BRICS Games to Draw 4,000+ from 97 Nations

India at the BRICS summit-Exercise of Strategic Autonomy in difficult circumstances.(photo:IN)

The BRICS Games will be held in the capital of Tatarstan from 12 to 23 June….reports Asian Lite News

More than 4,000 foreign participants from 97 countries are expected at the BRICS Games in Kazan, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko said following a meeting of the organising committee for the preparation and holding of the BRICS Games. This is reported by the official website of the Russian Government, according to TV BRICS.

“The BRICS Games, held on the instructions of President Vladimir Putin, are an important component of our country’s presidency plan in the association, and 97 countries have already confirmed their participation in them,” the official said.

Russia has also developed and proposed to its partners the BRICS Kazan Sports Charter.

The charter regulates the goals, principles and directions of sports cooperation in the BRICS space, provides for the mechanism of their implementation, as well as the conditions of holding games by the country-chairman of the association, as reported by TV BRICS.

The BRICS sports ministers’ meeting scheduled for June 22 will bring together representatives from China, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, India, South Africa and Brazil.

Russian Deputy Sports Minister Alexey Morozov said about 4,000 participants from other countries are expected at the BRICS Games.

“We expect about 5,000 participants, including more than 4,000 foreign participants. On behalf of the organising committee, the Russian Sports Ministry has formed the final sports programme taking into account the applications received. It includes 27 sports,” Morozov said.

The BRICS Games will be held in the capital of Tatarstan from 12 to 23 June.

The list of participants of the sporting event includes more than 50 countries, including Kazakhstan, Turkey, Mexico, Uruguay, Venezuela, Bahrain, Congo and others. 380 sets of awards in 29 disciplines will be played at the competitions, TV BRICS reported. (ANI)

ALSO READ: BRICS confident of Russia’s chairmanship 

Categories
-Top News Asia News Europe

BRICS confident of Russia’s chairmanship  

Viktor Sadovnichy, Rector of Lomonosov Moscow State University, opened the conference with a welcoming video address…reports Asian Lite News

The International Scientific and Practical Conference “BRICS in the Era of Global Social Transformations” was held in Russia, where an Indian professor expressed his confidence that during Russia’s BRICS chairmanship, special attention will be paid to solving the problems of the global south.

The International Scientific and Practical Conference “BRICS in the Era of Global Social Transformations” was held in Moscow at the Faculty of Global Studies, Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU), TV BRICS reported.

The conference was held in three parts, the opening ceremony, the plenary session, and the session.

Viktor Sadovnichy, Rector of Lomonosov Moscow State University, opened the conference with a welcoming video address.

Moreover, the event was attended by scientists from Russia, China, South Africa, and India.

During the plenary session, Sanjay Kumar Pandey, Professor at the Institute of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), made a presentation on the theme “BRICS and Global South: Perspective from India”.

Pandey stressed that the Asian, African, and Latin American countries are increasingly prominent in this dynamically changing world, TV BRICS reported.

The Professor also highlighted that there is a need to pay more attention on solving the problems that arise in this region.

“I am sure that during Russia’s BRICS chairmanship, special attention will be paid to solving the problems of the global south,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sadovnichy said, “Today BRICS is the vanguard, the core of the formation of a certain world order based on deep respect, civilizational identity and values of the peoples of all countries, on the desire for equal dialogue and mutually beneficial cooperation”.

Candidate of Historical Sciences, Doctor of Political Sciences, UNESCO Chairholder of the Faculty of Global Processes of MSU Yuriy Sayamov explained what role the BRICS countries can play in solving global social problems, TV BRICS reported.

“BRICS represents a format that opens up the possibility of fair participation of countries in international relations and world processes. The countries of the group should focus on the need to fulfil the global development agenda approved in 2015 by the UN General Assembly until 2030. However, we should already think about a renewed global agenda, which will reflect the new configuration of the global world,” Sayamov said.

He further emphasized that the organic integration of the new participants in BRICS is one of the goals of Russia’s BRICS chairmanship in 2024. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Sri Lanka keen to join BRICS, seeks India’s backing

Categories
-Top News Asia News Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka keen to join BRICS, seeks India’s backing

INdia promises to increase investment flows to SL.

Sri Lankan foreign minister emphasised that Colombo would reach out first to New Delhi whenever it formally applies to join the BRICS grouping….reports Asian Lite News

.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry expressed his country’s keenness to join the BRICS grouping on Monday and conveyed that the group has become a ‘good body’ after India became part of it. He emphasized that Sri Lanka would reach out first to India whenever it formally applies to join the BRICS grouping.

“We will look forward for BRICS. Also, I think the cabinet had appointed a sub-committee to look into that and recommend to us. We would like to see that because we would like to have multiple options. Who doesn’t want to? So therefore BRICS is a good body, particularly since India is a part of it,” Sabry said in an interview with ANI.

Modi’s participation at BRICS summit showcases India’s Strategic Autonomy doctrine.(photo:IN)

“The first country we would be talking to is India and seek India’s support for us to reach to the BRICS. And then of course I have been invited to take part on the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Russia. So I hope that I will be there and then we will assess that. And yes, I think that right now personally if you ask me, I think that we should look at BRICS seriously,” he added.

On January 1, 2024, Russia took over the chairmanship of BRICS, an intergovernmental organization that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, plus four new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.

Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates joined BRICS as new full members, which is a strong indication of the growing authority of the association and its role in international affairs.

When asked if Sri Lanka is looking to host any high-level visit from India, the Sri Lankan Minister said that his president visited India recently and now they are looking to host the Indian Prime Minister and a high-level delegation in the country.

“We are looking forward to the visit to the Indian prime Minister as soon as possible when the circumstances conduce you for such a visit because my president already visited last year. So this is the turn for the Indian prime minister to visit Sri Lanka,” he said.

“We would hope for a high-level delegation with a very powerful business delegation accompanying the honourable Prime Minister and visiting Sri Lanka in near future, that will further strengthen our relationship, which is at an all-time high,” he added.

At the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe visited India on an official visit on July 21, 2023. This was President Wickremesinghe’s first visit to India since assuming the current responsibilities.

During his visit, President Wickremesinghe met President Droupadi Murmu and held discussions with the Prime Minister and other Indian dignitaries on a range of issues of mutual interest.

Sri Lanka is an important partner in India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR. The visit reinforced the longstanding friendship between the two countries and explored avenues for enhanced connectivity and mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors. (ANI)

India marching towards economic glory: Lankan FM

Hailing the ‘excellent’ relationship between Colombo and New Delhi, Sri Lanka Foreign Minister Ali Sabry said that India is marching towards economic glory, which is not only good for the region but also for countries like Sri Lanka.

He said Sri Lanka is also looking at a lot of investment in ports, renewable energy, and other infrastructure, which makes it a win-win situation for both nations.

“We have an excellent relationship, I think almost all-time high. There is a multi-faceted partnership between the two countries. Economically, we are trying to engage with each other for the common benefit of each other… I think that will open up many more avenues for the Indian to visit Colombo and see,” Sabry told ANI.

“And we are looking at a lot of investment in ports and renewable energy, in other infrastructure. So going forward, we see a win-win situation for both countries. As I always maintained, India is marching towards economic glory, and that’s good for the region and good for the countries like Sri Lanka,” he added.

Shedding light on the civilizational ties shared between Sri Lanka and India, Sabry noted that all the communities in the island nation are influenced by Indian civilization.

“I think the entire civilizational contact we have had for a long period of time in multifaceted Buddhism is Sri Lanka’s biggest gift from India. So there is so much in common between the countries,” he said.

“All communities, Buddhists, Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, all have been influenced by the Indian civilization. So we see a lot of partnership going forward, and this Ramayan trail may be a very good beginning for us to further spur the already good tourism and people-to-people connection,” he added.

The sacred water, drawn from the revered Saryu River in Ayodhya, India, marked the auspicious beginning of a journey destined for the Seetha Amman Temple in Seetha Eliya last week. The event, which resonated with ancient traditions and divine reverence, symbolized the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka.

Seetha Amman Temple, nestled in the tranquil village of Seetha Eliya, holds profound mythological significance as the purported location, Goddess Sita was held captive by Ravana, according to ancient lore.

Enhancing the sanctity of the ceremony, five revered Kalash filled with Saryu water from the holy city of Ayodhya have been ceremoniously brought in, infusing the proceedings with spiritual resonance and symbolic purity.

In terms of connectivity, both nations are, at present, looking at the feasibility of it, the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister said, “I think connectivity, we are looking at the feasibility of it right now. After the President’s visit, Chief of Staff Sagal Ratnaikar visited with a host of senior officials to India, and they had a very good discussion. So like right now we are looking at the feasibility of it. I see once the feasibility is there, probably connectivity things will open.”

“And already I think more flight connections have started from Sri Lanka and from India and also vice versa. Similarly, we are very excited about the launch of the ferry services. So connectivity is multifaceted. Some of those things will take time. But the desire to connect both sides of people and then to help each other is there from both sides,” Sabry added.

The ferry service between Nagappatinam in India and Kankesanthurai (KKS) near Jaffna is a high-speed ferry operated by the Shipping Corporation of India and has a capacity of 150 passengers, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The distance of about 60 nm (110 Km) between Nagapattinam and Kankesanthurai will be covered in approximately 3.5 hours depending on sea conditions, according to MEA.

In order to start the ferry service, the Indian government supported the Tamil Nadu Maritime Board in upgrading facilities at the Nagapattinam port. Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan government had created the necessary infrastructure at the port of KKS.

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister also expressed condolences on the demise of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian in a helicopter crash on Sunday afternoon in northwestern Iran.

“We are deeply saddened by both the Iranian president and the party ministers this sudden demise on tragic circumstances. They have been good friends of Sri Lanka. I visited Iran. Iranian foreign minister and the president visited Sri Lanka very recently. So naturally, we are very saddened by this tragic death and also condolences to the family and the people of Iran,” Sabry said.

The chopper, which also carried other officials, had disappeared in the mountains of northwestern Iran after making a ‘hard landing’ on Sunday. All those onboard were confirmed killed on Monday morning around 16 hours after the helicopter they were travelling in crashed in poor weather.

Raisi was returning to Iran following a visit to Azerbaijan when his helicopter came down in bad weather conditions. (ANI)

ALSO READ: India set to participate in G7, Ukraine peace summits

Categories
-Top News EU News Europe

Kazan BRICS summit will mark achievement of new heights, says Lavrov

Screengrab of official footage shows that Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov speaks during an online press conference on June 6, 2022.(Xinhua/IANS)

On January 1, 2024, Russia took over the chairmanship of BRICS, an intergovernmental organization that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, plus four new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates…reports Asian Lite News

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Thursday emphasised that the 2024 BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, will mark the achievement of new heights in the interaction between the BRICS countries.

“I think that the summit in Kazan this October will mark the achievement of new heights in the interaction between the BRICS countries,” the Russian Foreign Minister said.

He further spoke about what to expect from Russia’s chairmanship of the group.

Responding to how the enlargement of the association affected the concept of the Russian chairmanship this year, he said, “We entered 2024 with no historical experience of expanding unification. It wasn’t clear how the lapping process would go or what would come of it. But today, with a third of the chairmanship behind us, the engagement has gained full momentum and we are moving at an increasing pace towards success.”

On January 1, 2024, Russia took over the chairmanship of BRICS, an intergovernmental organization that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, plus four new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.

Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates joined BRICS as new full members, which is a strong indication of the growing authority of the association and its role in international affairs.

During the BRICS Chairmanship, the Russian side will continue its work in all three key areas, including, politics and security, economy and finance, and humanitarian cooperation.

“It is worth considering that there has been no example of an entity doubling its membership so far,” Lavrov added.

He further underscored that all the newcomers are showing great enthusiasm and are ready to work substantively and professionally on the agenda that the Russian Chairmanship has developed in consultation with all participants.

“The second thing, of course, for some of the recruits, was the volume and scope of the work that we are doing in BRICS, which was a bit of a surprise. It is not even so much the number of events, but rather the multi-level mechanism of interaction, formats in which new ideas and certain traditions are worked out, initiatives are introduced into the fabric of BRICS work, and they are implemented,” he added. (ANI)

ALSO READ-BRICS Surpassing G7 in GDP: Putin

Categories
-Top News Economy World News

BRICS Surpassing G7 in GDP: Putin

The share of BRICS will increase to 36.6 per cent by 2028, while that of the G7 will decrease to 27.8 per cent…reports Asian Lite News

The BRICS states are overtaking the G7 in terms of share in global GDP in PPP terms, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday while addressing the Federal Assembly, a media report said.

The share of BRICS will increase to 36.6 per cent by 2028, while that of the G7 will decrease to 27.8 per cent, according to estimates provided by President Putin, RT reported.

“But 10 years ago, the situation was different,” Putin said, noting that in 2022, the BRICS countries surpassed the G7 in terms of GDP in PPP terms (31.5 per cent versus 30.3 per cent), whereas back in 1992, the BRICS share was only around 16.5 per cent, RT reported.

PPP is a metric popular with many economists that compares economic productivity and standards of living between countries by adjusting for the differences in the cost of goods and services.

The BRICS group of emerging economies, which previously comprised Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, underwent a major expansion after Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt and the UAE joined in January this year.

Saudi Arabia has also been invited and is set to become a member. Numerous other states have expressed interest in joining, while some have already formally submitted applications, RT reported.

ALSO READ: Reform IMF, WB with BRICS Involvement, UN Chief Bats for Global South

Categories
-Top News Arab News UAE News

BRICS Chamber of Commerce Launches UAE Chapter

The launch of the UAE chapter office holds significant importance as the United Arab Emirates aligns itself with the BRICS alliance…reports Asian Lite News

The BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BRICS CCI), a not-for-profit organization, recognized by the United Nations that promotes commerce and industry in the BRICS and other friendly nations has officially launched its UAE Chapter office. UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran and Ethiopia joined BRICS on January 1, 2024, doubling its membership to 10, with Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa the original members.

The launch of the UAE chapter office holds significant importance as the United Arab Emirates aligns itself with the BRICS alliance, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This marks a pivotal moment in the region’s economic trajectory, paving the way for unparalleled collaboration and growth opportunities across various sectors.

The distinguished Chief Guest for the evening was Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer – Parks & Zones, DP World GCC. The guest list featured esteemed representation from the BRICS+ nations, including diplomats- Sidney Leon Romeiro, Ambassador, Embassy of The Federal Republic of Brazil; Andrew Tsepo Lebona, Consul General, South Africa in Dubai & Northern Emirates; Oleg Lavrik, Founder and Vice Chairman, Russian Business Council; Aklilu Kebede, Consul General, The Consulate General of The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; Ashraf Hamdy, The Commercial Consul, Consulate General of the Arab Republic of Egypt and Reza Amiri, Ambassador, Embassy of The Islamic Republic of Iran.

Modi’s participation at BRICS summit showcases India’s Strategic Autonomy doctrine.(photo:IN)

The diverse and dynamic gathering included luminaries such as Rizwan Sajan. Distinguished Members of the BRICS CCI Governing Body also graced the event, including Sameep Shastri, Ruhail Ranjan, Prann Sharma, Ruby Sinha, Shabana Nasim and Gulshan Narang along with BRICS CCI secretariat represented by Ankita Sachdev, Joint Director BRICS CCI.

In his opening remarks, the Chief Guest for the evening Abdulla Al Hashmi, Chief Operating Officer, Parks & Zones, DP World GCC, said, “The launch of the UAE Chapter of the BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry marks a significant moment. At DP World, our goal is to seamlessly connect economies to global trade networks, and through our integrated supply chain solutions and the strategic location of Jebel Ali, we stand ready to facilitate the trade corridors between the BRICS members.”

Rizwan Sajan, Chairman of the UAE’s esteemed Danube Group, has embraced the role of honorary advisor on the board with great enthusiasm. Reflecting on the significance of this appointment, he stated, “BRICS countries which have joined has doubled compared to what it was earlier. And I’m sure more and more countries are going to join, and this will help in improving the economic relationship between all the countries. I want to congratulate all the countries who have joined and wish them all the best.”

Sameep Shastri, Vice Chairman, BRICS CCI expressed his excitement about the occasion, stating, “We are thrilled to unveil the UAE chapter office of BRICS CCI amidst the prestige and allure of Dubai. This momentous occasion reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering global partnerships, bilateral trade and driving economic growth. With the UAE joining the BRICS alliance, the possibilities for collaboration are endless, and we are excited to embark on this spectacular journey together.”

Ansh Virmani, Country Director, BRICS CCI UAE Chapter opened the ceremony stating, “The inauguration of the BRICS CCI UAE Chapter signifies more than just an event; it epitomizes the organization’s dedication to forging a more interconnected and prosperous world. The stage is now set for unparalleled collaboration and growth, with BRICS CCI poised to be a guiding light for economic diplomacy in the UAE.”

A symbolic logo unveiling added a touch of grandeur to the proceedings, marking the beginning of a new era for BRICS CCI in the UAE. The unveiled logo symbolized the organization’s commitment to fostering collaboration and acting as a catalyst for economic growth.

In this era of global challenges and opportunities, the role of the BRICS CCI UAE Chapter is more critical than ever. The chamber is committed to building bridges between nations, sectors, and cultures, fostering dialogue and collaboration that go beyond borders. The initiatives will mainly focus on facilitating trade, attracting investment, and promoting sustainable practices that benefit not only the member countries but also the global community.

ALSO READ: ‘FATF Decision a Testament to UAE’s Progress’

Categories
-Top News World World News

Reform IMF, WB with BRICS Involvement, UN Chief Bats for Global South

Guterres emphasised BRICS’ vital role for developing nations but warns against fracturing the global economy….reports Arul Louis

The international financial and development institutions should be reformed to reflect the interests of the Global South, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said.

While the BRICS can play an important and complementary role for developing nations, he stressed that it should not contribute to a fragmentation of the world economy.

The international financial institutions — the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank — and the Security Council that were created in the 1940s after World War II reflect “what the power relations and the global economy were at that time” but aren’t relevant to today’s world, he said at a news conference here on Thursday.

Since they don’t “correspond to the power relations and to the global economy as it is today”, he said, “it will be very important for those institutions to reform in order to represent today’s global economy, to be truly universal and truly inclusive”.

Modi’s participation at BRICS summit showcases India’s Strategic Autonomy doctrine.(photo:IN)

“We obviously need that those institutions reflect more obviously the interests of the Global South”, he emphasised.

Asked about the role of BRICS, he said that “it is important to have a multiplicity of different organisations to support developing countries” in the finance and trade sectors.

“But”, he added, “it is essential that (it) doesn’t correspond to a fragmentation of the global economy”.

“One of the most important aspects that we need to preserve today is One Global Economy, One Global Market, One Global Internet and to avoid the fragmentation of that global economy”, he said.

“Within a united global economy, I think that many of these institutions (like BRICS) can play an extremely important and complementary role”, he added.

BRICS, made up originally of emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, has expanded to include Ethiopia, Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates with membership queries from 34 countries pending.

The group, which aims to foster trade and financial cooperation has created the New Development Bank to fund development projects and help financial stabilisation in the member countries, functioning in some ways like the established financial institutions.

About the fitness of the Bretonwoods Institutions — as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund are known for the venue of their founding — to meet contemporary needs, Guterres said that besides the unrepresentative character of their power structure and orientation, they are undercapitalized and too small for the current global needs.

“The truth is that they became too small”, he said, pointing out that “the paid-in capital of the World Bank as a percentage of global GDP today is less than one-fifth of what it was in 1960”.

“So we obviously need a meaningful capitalisation of those institutions”, he said.

While the UN cannot reform them, Guterres said that he would like to see the United Nations Summit of the Future in September give some directions for the way those institutions “should structurally move”.

Assessing the global political situation, Guterres said, “We are no longer in a bipolar or unipolar world, as I said, we are in a kind of on the way to a multipolar world, but in a very chaotic situation”.

“Power relations became unclear and what we see today in the world is political actors doing whatever they want and with total impunity”, he said.

To end the multitude of conflicts and divisions and to effectively address threats posed by Artificial Intelligence, to act on climate action and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, “a serious conversation between developed and developing countries; between rich and emerging economies; between north and south, east and west” is needed, he said.

ALSO READ: Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ tapestry back at United Nations

ALSO READ: Gargash meets UN special envoy to Yemen

Categories
-Top News Asia News India News

BRICS members call for greater global uptake in renewable energy

Smriti Irani said the economic bloc is working toward an “agenda of growth, an agenda of inclusion…reports Asian Lite News

Members of the BRICS alliance have called for greater global uptake in renewable energy as a means to not only tackle climate change but global economic inequalities.

BRICS countries were responsible for 55 percent of solar capacity added to the international grid in 2023. While China led the way, adding 40 percent of new capacity, Brazil, India and South Africa also found themselves among key producers.

Gao Jifan, chair of Chinese solar manufacturer Trina Solar, told the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday that the developments made by BRICS nations will benefit the whole world. “The UAE, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have ambitious plans for renewable energy development, and developing renewables isn’t just about climate change but also achieving green development, and so also about reducing poverty,” he said.

“These countries are world leaders, and their contribution in spreading green technology will better stimulate a green transition.” UAE Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al-Marri said his country’s decision to become a BRICS member was motivated by the need to engage in a “fragmented” world.

“We aren’t living in a Cold War environment anymore, and so joining BRICS wasn’t about taking a political stance, but rather is part of an economic plan, as a way of engaging trade, traders, and supply and demand,” he added. “In the fragmented world in which we’re living, (BRICS) is creating new ways of dealing and to really grow economies moving forward.”

Smriti Irani said the economic bloc is working toward an “agenda of growth, an agenda of inclusion.” She touted the success of India, which has experienced three years of 7 percent growth in terms of gross domestic product.

“As an Indian, I believe we’ve proven the point of growth, reform and social justice,” she said. “When we landed on the dark side of the moon, it wasn’t a celebration of India alone, it was about cooperation in space tech. BRICS is the place to be as a bridge between the Global North and the Global South.” While the UAE is among the latest additions to the bloc, South Africa’s Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana said there remains scope for further expansion.

Asked whether there was a driving or deciding force behind the decision to invite a further six nations to join the group, he said: “The issue of expansion wasn’t something that emerged last year. It has been a continuing debate.”

He added: “Those discussions consider expanding at both an economic and political level, and then key issues concern how to mobilize members’ savings to ensure creation of a better development agenda.”

ALSO READ-India a partner that BRICS can count on, says Smriti Irani