Russia Assumes BRICS Chairmanship, Eyes Expansion and Global Collaboration

As Russia steps into the role of the 2024 BRICS chairmanship, President Vladimir Putin expressed a strong commitment to fostering global development and security under the theme "Strengthening Multilateralism for Equitable Global Development and Security."

BRICS Chairmanship 2024

President Putin emphasized the shift in BRICS dynamics since January 1, following the decision made during the 15th BRICS Summit in August 2022. The expansion of the association now includes 10 countries, notably Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, signaling an extended reach and growing influence on the world stage.

BRICS Core Values and Inclusion

Putin highlighted BRICS' core values, including sovereign equality, respect for diverse developmental paths, mutual interests, consensus-building, and the pursuit of a fair, multipolar global order. He mentioned the collective approach to addressing global challenges, positioning BRICS as an inclusive and cooperative platform.

"We aim to integrate new participants into our activities while drawing on the experience of the association," Putin stated, indicating a strategic intent to include approximately 30 other countries to varying extents in BRICS activities, marking the inception of a new category of BRICS partner countries.

Key Domains and Objectives

Russia's BRICS agenda for the chairmanship spans political and security cooperation, economic and financial spheres, and cultural and humanitarian exchanges. Putin emphasized the importance of fostering foreign policy coordination among member nations to tackle global and regional security threats collectively.

"We are committed to the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership 2025 and the Action Plan for BRICS Innovation Cooperation 2021-2024," Putin affirmed. He emphasized energy and food security, expanding BRICS' role in the global monetary system, enhancing interbank collaboration, and promoting the use of national currencies in trade.

Collaborative Initiatives

Russia aims to deepen collaboration in science, technology, healthcare, environmental conservation, culture, sports, and youth exchanges, with over 200 diverse events planned across multiple Russian cities during the chairmanship.

Russia Steers BRICS Toward a "Multipolar World": Inclusion, Security, and Innovation on the Agenda

Russia has taken the helm of the BRICS group, marking a significant shift in global dynamics. With a focus on "Strengthening Multilateralism for Equitable Global Development and Security," President Putin aims to expand the association's reach and influence, paving the way for a more multipolar world order.

Expanding Horizons: From Five to Ten and Beyond:

• BRICS welcomes six new members: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, broadening its representation and global footprint.

• Putin emphasizes respect for diverse paths to development and a commitment to fair global structures, echoing the ideals shared by this growing alliance.

• Integration and tradition: Russia pledges to smoothly absorb new members while building upon the BRICS' established legacy.

Beyond Membership: Partnering for a Multipolar Future:

• Russia proposes a new category of "BRICS Partner Countries," potentially encompassing around 30 additional nations.

• This strategic move aims to further diversify the group's engagement and build a broader network of like-minded states.

• Partnering with diverse forces in the international arena promises to shape a more multipolar world order, challenging existing dominant structures.

Three Pillars of Progress: Cooperation in All Dimensions:

• Russia's chairmanship prioritizes political and security cooperation, tackling international challenges collectively.

• The economic and financial agenda focuses on implementing the BRICS Economic Partnership Strategy and strengthening the group's role in the global monetary system.

• Cultural and humanitarian exchanges remain central, fostering deeper understanding and fostering collaboration in science, technology, and environmental conservation.

Action Speaks Louder: A Year of BRICS Activity:

• Over 200 events across various Russian cities throughout the year will showcase the diversity and dynamism of the BRICS agenda.

• From youth exchanges to cultural festivals, Russia aims to solidify the bonds of partnership and celebrate the group's growing influence.