BRICS Summit 2023: Session to focus on sustainable development, multilateralism | WION

Summary

The 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, brought together leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss global economic recovery, sustainable development, and the African agenda. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of BRICS in promoting inclusivity and addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. He emphasized Africa's role in the summit and the necessity of a fair global order. The summit also showcased youth participation, focusing on leveraging BRICS' collective strengths to support the Sustainable Development Goals and foster multilateralism.

Takeaways

• 😀 BRICS is a key driver of global economic growth, trade, and investment, representing 23% of the world's GDP.
• 😀 The BRICS partnership includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, with a growing focus on cooperation with Africa.
• 😀 The African agenda is a strategic priority for South Africa during its chairmanship of BRICS, highlighting the importance of African nations in global trade.
• 😀 Over 30 African countries have been invited to the BRICS Summit, reinforcing the commitment to Africa's development and inclusion in global discussions.
• 😀 BRICS stands for solidarity, inclusivity, and sustainable development, aiming to create a more equitable global order.
• 😀 The transition to a low-carbon economy must be fair and account for the diverse circumstances of different countries, particularly in the Global South.
• 😀 BRICS nations advocate for developed countries to fulfill their climate commitments, emphasizing support for climate actions and developing economies.
• 😀 Diplomatic engagement, dialogue, and adherence to the United Nations Charter are essential for peaceful conflict resolution, according to South Africa's position.
• 😀 There is a growing concern about the use of global financial and payment systems as instruments of geopolitical contestation, which may hinder global economic recovery.
• 😀 South Africa is pushing for the increased use of local currencies to facilitate trade and investment flows within BRICS countries and beyond.
• 😀 BRICS aims for a reform of global governance institutions to ensure they are more representative and capable of addressing global challenges.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg?

The main purpose of the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg is to discuss global economic recovery, sustainable development, and strengthening partnerships with Africa and the Global South in a multipolar world.

Which countries are currently part of the BRICS group?

The BRICS group currently consists of five countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

How many African countries were invited to the BRICS Summit?

Apart from South Africa, around 30 different African countries were invited to the BRICS Summit.

What is South Africa's strategic priority during its chairmanship of BRICS?

South Africa's strategic priority during its chairmanship of BRICS is advancing the African agenda and promoting mutually accelerated growth, sustainability, and inclusive multilateralism.

What role does Africa play in the BRICS Summit discussions?

Africa plays a central role in the BRICS Summit discussions, with a focus on promoting Africa's economic development, ensuring fair global trade, and fostering stronger partnerships between Africa and BRICS countries.

What is the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in BRICS discussions?

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is crucial in BRICS discussions as it aims to unlock the potential of the African market and generate mutually beneficial opportunities for both African and BRICS countries.

How does President Ramaphosa view BRICS in terms of global economic influence?

President Ramaphosa views BRICS as an important economic bloc that represents about 23% of the world's GDP and plays a vital role in shaping the global economy by driving growth, trade, and investment.

What does President Ramaphosa emphasize about climate change at the BRICS Summit?

President Ramaphosa emphasizes that the transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient future must be just, fair, and considerate of the diverse circumstances in different countries, urging industrialized nations to fulfill their climate commitments.

What is the stance of BRICS on global governance reforms?

BRICS advocates for fundamental reforms in global governance to make institutions more representative and responsive to the challenges facing humanity, especially in light of new economic, political, and technological realities.

What role do young people play in the BRICS Summit discussions?

Young people are recognized as a significant demographic in BRICS countries, and their voices are critical in shaping the post-pandemic future. The BRICS Youth Summit, held in Durban, focused on the development of youth cooperation and aligning efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals.