Category: Blog

On September 26, 2024, Cape Town hosted the BRICS Universe exhibition at the Iziko Planetarium, a captivating blend of culture, science, and international collaboration. The exhibition, organized by the Russia-BRICS Project Office for International Youth Cooperation and Roscosmos, brought together breathtaking photographs of BRICS nations as seen from space, captured by Russian cosmonauts and photographers.

The event opened with a welcome by Hylton Arnolds, Director of Education at Iziko Museums, who emphasized the museum’s role in fostering education and cultural exchange. His words set the tone for an afternoon dedicated to bridging the worlds of science, art, and international cooperation.

Alexei Malenko, Consul General of Russia in Cape Town, highlighted the strong bonds between BRICS countries, particularly in space science. He praised the enduring relationships between BRICS nations, especially in the field of space exploration, and emphasized that the exhibition was not just about viewing stunning images of Earth but about appreciating the scientific advancements and diplomatic ties that make such feats possible. “Space exploration transcends borders,” he remarked, “uniting us in the pursuit of knowledge and peace.”

The highlight of the afternoon was the appearance of Sergey Kud-Sverchkov, a Russian cosmonaut who had personally contributed to the photographs on display. Speaking with a mix of humility and awe, Sergey described the experience of looking down at Earth from space, capturing images of cities, rivers, and landscapes that he hoped would remind everyone of the shared beauty and fragility of our planet. He joked about the challenges of weightlessness and the meticulous work it takes to live and thrive on the ISS, drawing laughter from the audience.

However, it wasn’t just about the marvels of technology and science. Sergey’s reflections touched on the resilience of humanity itself—a recurring theme throughout the day. “From space, Earth looks peaceful,” he mused, “but the real beauty lies in how we collaborate despite our differences.” His words struck a deep chord, especially given the political and economic tensions of our times. The cosmonaut reminded all present that, despite conflicts on Earth, the pursuit of knowledge and peace in space continues undeterred.

At its core, the BRICS Universe exhibition stood as a symbol of what can be achieved when nations come together for a common cause. The photos displayed at the exhibition were more than just images—they were cultural bridges. They told stories of the BRICS nations from space, but they also brought people from different walks of life together under one roof. Attendees marveled at the vibrant images of Rio de Janeiro, the sprawling landscapes of Russia, the bustling cities of India and China, and the iconic sights of South Africa. Each image felt like an invitation to explore the world anew, reminding everyone of the beauty and potential within every nation.

In the end, the BRICS Universe exhibition wasn’t just about the past and present. It was about the future—the future of science, the future of collaboration, and the future of humanity. With space as the final frontier, the sky is no longer the limit; it’s just the beginning.

BRICS+ YOUTH INNOVATION SUMMIT 2024

Saudi Arabia is still considering an invitation to become a member of the BRICS bloc of countries after being asked to join by the group last year, a Saudi official source told Reuters.

The source commented after South Africa’s Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said on Wednesday the kingdom had joined the grouping.

SABYA aims to enhance understanding and cooperation among young people from South Africa, Global South and other BRICS countries through various initiatives, including conferences, seminars, workshops, and cultural exchanges. The organization strives to create a platform where young people can network, share ideas, and work together on projects that contribute to the development and prosperity of their respective nations. SABYA plays a significant role in advocating for youth empowerment, education, entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development.

It seeks to empower young people to actively participate in decision-making processes that shape policies and programs within the BRICS framework.By fostering collaboration and dialogue, SABYA seeks to leverage the collective potential of BRICS youth to address global challenges and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In line with the purpose to strengthen linkages, institutional cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges within the BRICS and multilateral platforms, the 2024 Summit provided a platform to elevate youth entrepreneurs on the opportunities presented by the BRICS and other multilateral platforms, as well as to provide a platform for investors and businesses to pave the way for partnership with young innovators, and thus invest in their promising innovations.

Amongst the honorary guests who were present was the Minister of Youth, Gender, and Social Development of The Kingdom of Lesotho, H.E. Pitso Lesaoana, who gave a keynote address and encouraged the youth to harness their skills in becoming agents of change, by stating that they “be the architects of the future where innovation and entrepreneurship are not just ideals but the very engines that drive progress.”.

Furthermore, he encouraged a collective effort amongst the youth by encouraging that “this summit be a beacon of inspiration and a testament to what we can achieve when we unite in purpose and action. Let us ask questions where we need to, let us share where we need to share to create a conflict free and economically ripe planet”.

Participating members of this year’s Summit included over 100 delegates from BRICS+ and Global South countries such as Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Lesotho, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. Not only did the Summit support and empower youth innovators and entrepreneurs, it also promoted peer-to-peer networks, knowledge sharing, cultural exchange, global visibility, and skills development.

The two day Summit provided youth delegates the opportunity to immerse in meaningful interactions with distinguished industry leaders as they embarked on fundamental themes and discussions towards unlocking youth potential. The Executive Chairperson of the South African BRICS Association (SABYA), Mr. Raymond Matlala, stressed the significance of SABYA and the Summit when he proclaimed that the summit aims to “create a space to allow young innovators and young entrepreneurs to showcase their projects and innovations”, and advised the youth to use this opportunity to network with other innovators, later characterizing the Summit as a “learning and networking space”.

Over the two day Summit, youth innovators and entrepreneurs who are undertaking projects that reflect prosocial impact in the real world, presented their work before industry experts and adjudicators under the following thematic topics:

It was announced that winners of the Youth Innovation Summit who presented their work, have the opportunity to present their projects at the Saint Petersburg International Forum (SPIEF). The Summit achieved its objective of serving as a meeting point between promising youth entrepreneurs and business leaders, investors, partners, and experts from across BRICS and the Global South.

In the spirit of unified action towards changing the narrative and amplifying the voices of youth and their needs, CEO of The Innovation Hub, Mr. Bangani Mpangase, informed the audience of the strides undertaken by the organization to achieve youth empowerment by stating that “as the Innovation Hub, this year we will be intensifying our activities to empower our youth through assisting youth innovators to navigate the valley of death in bringing their innovations to market”. Furthermore, he enlightens how the organization will “deliberately be using young innovators to address challenges in government and industries through the open innovation solutions platform.”

CEO of W&RSETA, Mr. Tom Mkhwanazi, echoed equal sentiments on the importance of upskilling youth for their development, stating that “sometimes we give young people knowledge without skills, and that is where we play a role as W&RSETA, ensuring that young people get the skills they require”.

In light of the purpose of the Summit and harnessing innovation, an alternative perspective of the meaning of BRICS+ shared by the renowned Message Architect and Program Director of the Summit, Ms. Thami Nkadimeng, challenged delegates to be “BRICS”, in essence to “Be Real In Changing Societies”. We are reminded of the words of encouragement by H.E. Pitso Lesaoana who proposes that we “advocate for policies that foster entrepreneurship ensuring the red tape does not suppress innovation. Let us forge partnerships across borders”.

The Summit was closed off with a keynote address by UNDP Resident Representative in the Kingdom of Lesotho, Dr. Jacqueline Olweya, followed by a prize giving ceremony awarding all participants with certificates, as well as an awards ceremony for youth entrepreneur winners. The 2024 BRICS+ Youth Innovation Summit positioned youth at the forefront of empowerment in advancing sustainability towards a progressive future.

Therefore, the Summit underscored the significance of the South African BRICS Youth Association (SABYA) and its consistent strides towards Empowering Youth Beyond Boundaries.

Today 23 April, Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO) will host the BRICSonomics 2024 forum organised by the Makarenko Economic Club Oeconomicus.

Participants and guests of the event will consider the prospects and current problems of the BRICS member countries in the field of economics. The event is aimed at increasing the interest of future international experts in the activities of the association and researching aspects of its development.

The event will feature debates on “Introduction of the BRICS Single Currency” and “Economic Feasibility of BRICS Expansion”, as well as an investment game “Attracting Investments to the BRICS Countries”.

It can be attended by schoolchildren, students, undergraduates, graduate students, postgraduates and young professionals from Russia and other BRICS countries.

Source: TV BRICS

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in cooperation with the Commission of the African Union and additional partners, arranged the two-day meeting as a prelude to the African Regional Meeting on Sustainable Development. With a focus on ending poverty in Africa, the subject emphasised the role of STI in accomplishing the objectives of the 2063 Agenda and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

 

The conversation focused on how STI may revolutionise African business, agriculture, and attempts to combat poverty. Belete Molla, Ethiopia’s Minister of Technology and Innovation, emphasised that fostering innovation in vital industries like renewable energy, health, and agriculture is a means to boost employment, enhance quality of life, and lessen poverty.

 

Molla underlined that when it comes to helping other African countries strengthen their agricultural and food security, Ethiopia is setting the standard. Enhancing access to technology, crops, and fertilisers for farmers is one of the initiatives. Another is a roadmap for changing the nation’s food chain.

 

In order to advance peace and sustainable development, Lidia Arthur Brito, UNESCO Assistant Director General for Natural Sciences, underlined the need for worldwide scientific cooperation. She emphasised the possibility of enabling youth to become not only the engine of the economy but also creative problem solvers for the environment. However, Brito noted that because many African technology institutes depend on outside financing, achieving stability of finances is a difficulty.

 

Africa’s future can be shaped by the Sixth African Forum on Science, Technology, and Innovation. African nations may construct a future that is more rich, just, and sustainable by utilising the potential presented by STIs and encouraging collaboration.

Source: TV BRICS

 

 

Presidential elections in Russia were held from 15 to 17 March. The turnout across the country was 77,44 per cent. Vladimir Putin, according to official data, received 87,28 per cent of the votes.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was one of the first to recognise the success of the Russian politician. In his message, he congratulated him on his convincing victory in the elections and expressed satisfaction with the trend in the development of relations between the two countries.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent Vladimir Putin a congratulatory telegram. “Your re-election fully shows that you are supported by the Russian people,” it stated.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also expressed his best wishes to the Russian leader on his re-election. He recalled South Africa’s commitment to co-operation with Russia in multilateral platforms, including the UN, G20, BRICS and others.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed “warm congratulations to Vladimir Putin on his re-election as President of Russia”. He said he looked forward to working together to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Brazilian leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva sent a letter to Vladimir Putin congratulating him on his victory in this year’s presidential election.

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud also congratulated the president-elect and expressed “best wishes for success, prosperity, further progress.” Later, Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. The parties reaffirmed their readiness to further actively develop ties between the states and mutually beneficial cooperation.

Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, President of Egypt, praised the historical ties between his country and Russia. President of the United Arab Emirates Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan wished the Russian President further success at the highest state post. The Emirati leader thanked his colleague for the attention paid to strengthening relations between the countries.

Also, the heads of Venezuela, Nicaragua, Myanmar, Vietnam, Algeria, Mali and other countries sent congratulations to Vladimir Putin.

 

Source: TV BRICS

 

Russian President Vladimir Putin asked the Chairman of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) Bakytzhan Sagintaev to work out the possibilities of cooperation between the EAEU countries and the BRICS member states.

 

Russian President said:

“Russia is chairing the BRICS this year. Our other countries are not members of this association, but the opportunities there are great, I mean also the plans of our Chinese friends, One Belt, One Road. BRICS leaders will come to Kazan, and I have a big request to you to see and work with Russian colleagues on how we could include the economies of other countries of our association in joint work with the BRICS countries”

 

Vladimir Putin pointed out that one of the promising areas of joint work of the associations could be the creation of a system of settlements in national currencies. In addition, the Russian leader recalled the creation of the BRICS Bank, whose functionality could also be expanded.

 

The President added.

“It would be great if we offered our colleagues some things on behalf of Russia, but taking into account the interests of the member countries of our organisation. Because any steps in these areas, of course, we seek to coordinate with all members of the Eurasian Economic Community and, accordingly, of course, with your position, with the position of the Commission, we could prepare joint proposals”

 

Source: Kremlin & TV BRICS

 

President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa recalled the strong economic ties between the two countries during the 2nd session of the South African-Ghana Bi-National Commission as reported by Pretoria News.

South Africa According to him is the largest importer of Ghana’s products in Africa and third compared to all other countries in the world.

“South Africa and Ghana have untapped economic potential and much more needs to be done, both with regards to growth of total trade and the diversification of products to high-value manufactured exports” He welcomed delegates from the second side led by Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo.

South African delegates representing over 150 companies and their Ghanaian counterparts from 78 companies in discussion groups agreed that the inability of African businessmen to trade directly and cost-effectively using national currencies needs to be addressed.

Source: Pretoria News & TV BRICS

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched the Insurance and Risk Financing Facility (IRFF) in Ethiopia. This is reported by ENA. IRFF will help the African nation build the capacity of businesses, communities and individual entrepreneurs through accessible, affordable and innovative insurance products.

UNDP Ethiopia Resident Representative, Samuel Doe said the launch of an insurance and risk financing programme in the country is necessary for the development of the economy. He added that Ethiopia is vulnerable to various natural and man-made hazards.

The publication said the insurance and risk financing programme will also be useful to the National Bank of Ethiopia in setting up a dedicated insurance supervisory body that will act as an independent regulator.

source: ENA & TV BRICS

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva(Brazilian President) ordered to change the composition of the basic food basket and to implement the “Solidarity Kitchen” programme, which will provide free meals to people living on the streets and in difficult situations. The relevant decrees were signed at a plenary meeting of the National Council for Food and Nutritional Security (Consea).

“We must realise that the problem is not a lack of food, but a lack of resources that allow people to have access to it,” Lula da Silva said.

The president said that fighting hunger is a priority for the country’s leadership. According to the government, the new composition of the basic food basket is in line with the recommendations and principles of the Ministry of Health’s guidelines. It now includes more natural and minimally heat-treated foods.

The Solidarity Kitchen programme is coordinated by Brazil’s Ministry of Social Development and Fight Against Hunger (MDS) and has been in operation since July 2023. The office has already mapped 2,770 kitchens across the country, which work through collaboration between different entities related to family farming, food procurement and others.

source: Toda Palavra & TV BRICS