The inaugural BRICS Sherpas meeting in Brazil set the foundation for an agenda aimed at enhancing multilateralism and cooperation among developing countries. Key topics discussed included addressing global challenges, economic integration through local currencies, and reforming international governance systems. The upcoming summit, scheduled for July in Rio de Janeiro, aims to further these objectives.
Brazilian Presidency hosted the inaugural BRICS Sherpas meeting on February 24-25, 2024, at Itamaraty Palace in Brasilia. The gathering included representatives from all 11 member nations, laying the groundwork for the upcoming summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7. This meeting marks the start of an agenda aimed at enhancing multilateral collaboration and reforming global governance to better represent developing countries’ interests.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mauro Vieira opened the meeting, emphasizing the relevance of BRICS amid significant global changes. Vieira stated, “It is a great honour to welcome you to this inaugural meeting of the Brazilian BRICS Presidency. We are gathered in a crucial moment — of profound transformations, in which the principles of multilateralism and cooperation are being tested by crises that demand urgent and collective action.”
He argued that the solution to the crisis in multilateralism is to strengthen it by making it more inclusive, as existing governance structures struggle to adapt to a changing international landscape. Vieira highlighted that BRICS serves a crucial role in fostering a just and sustainable world order. The recent expansion of the bloc now includes Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia.
The Brazilian presidency will concentrate on cooperation among Global South nations, focusing on six key areas: health, trade, climate change, artificial intelligence, multilateral security reform, and strengthening BRICS institutions. Ambassador Celso Amorim, an advisor to President Lula, emphasized BRICS as a coordination platform for energy, monetary policy, and peace efforts among developing nations.
Amorim addressed misconceptions of BRICS having an anti-Western stance, stating, “How can anyone say that Brazil is against the West when we have just concluded an agreement with the European Union [Mercosur-EU deal]?” Instead, he argued for cooperation over subordination to any dominant nation.
On the second day of the meeting, President Lula delivered an optimistic speech, asserting that BRICS will significantly impact both member nations and the global community. He called for unity in promoting peace and highlighted that “unilateralism undermines the international order,” urging negotiation based on collective agreements rather than power dynamics.
Lula expressed confidence that the presidency would lead to a successful summit in Rio, emphasizing the importance of strengthening Global South cooperation and reforming international governance. He also advocated for expanding local currency payment options among BRICS countries to mitigate economic risks amid increased global protectionism. While championing local currency use, Lula suggested maintaining bilateral payment systems over creating a common currency, noting tensions with members like Iran and Russia who face economic pressure from sanctions.
The first BRICS Sherpas meeting under Brazil’s presidency emphasized a commitment to strengthening multilateralism and highlighting the bloc’s importance in a transforming global landscape. Key areas of focus include enhancing cooperation among Global South nations and addressing economic vulnerabilities through local currency initiatives. The meeting sets the stage for the upcoming summit, reinforcing member countries’ ambitions for a more equitable global governance framework.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
