Brazil has hosted its first BRICS Sherpas meeting, led by Foreign Affairs Minister Mauro Vieira, who called for a stronger multilateral system amid a changing global order. The meeting, focused on promoting equity and inclusion, underscores the significance of BRICS in shaping policies for emerging economies and the Global South, while also addressing issues like trade and development financing.
On Tuesday, Brazilian Foreign Affairs Minister Mauro Vieira inaugurated the inaugural meeting of the BRICS Sherpas, the chief negotiators of the bloc, in Brasilia, where Brazil is currently holding its rotating presidency. Confirmed by the Foreign Ministry and reported by News.az, Vieira emphasized that the response to the crisis of multilateralism requires “more multilateralism, stronger and more inclusive in all spheres.”
In his address, Minister Vieira acknowledged the significant changes in the international order and the difficulties faced by existing institutions in adapting to these new circumstances. He stated that emerging economies are increasingly seeking greater involvement in global decision-making processes. He asserted, “In this evolving scenario, BRICS plays a fundamental role in promoting a more just, inclusive and sustainable world order.”
Further expanding on this theme, Vieira posited that a multipolar world is not only a developing reality but also a collective goal. He argued that a rebalanced global system must rely on foundations of equity and representation, emphasizing the importance of including the voice of BRICS. He noted that the group embodies the aspirations of the Global South, making its role in shaping future policies more crucial than ever.
The discussions, which are taking place over two days at the Itamaraty Palace, aim to promote a fairer and more multipolar world order aligned with Brazil’s priorities for its BRICS presidency. This meeting marks the first gathering of negotiators since the BRICS bloc expanded last year to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia, in addition to the original members Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Moreover, countries such as Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan are associated members of the bloc. Minister Vieira expressed the need to redefine global governance to reflect contemporary realities, ensuring developing countries play a proactive role rather than a passive one. He highlighted that rising protectionism poses threats to equity, urging BRICS to champion an “open, fair and balanced” multilateral trade system that serves the needs of the Global South.
He also called for continued advancement in alternative financial mechanisms, specifically referencing the New BRICS Development Bank, which he deemed essential for financing sustainable infrastructure in emerging economies. Under Brazil’s leadership, BRICS will prioritize cooperation with the Global South and focus on six vital areas: health, trade, climate change, artificial intelligence, reforming the multilateral security system, and strengthening the bloc’s institutions.
A special session featuring Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is scheduled for the meeting’s second day, with a summary of the proceedings to be published in the afternoon.
The first BRICS Sherpas meeting under Brazil’s presidency has emphasized the need for a more equitable and inclusive multilateral global order. Minister Mauro Vieira reiterated the importance of BRICS in representing the Global South, advocating for significant changes in global governance and trade systems. The bloc aims to focus on crucial areas, ensuring that emerging economies play a leading role in shaping the future of international relations.
Original Source: news.az
