18th BRICS Summit outlines new mechanisms for cooperation in technology, security, and economy

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama): The 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit has outlined new mechanisms to deepen cooperation in technology, security and economic development, aimed at benefiting the wider Global South, according to TV BRICS.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in summing up the country's chairship, said that BRICS countries had agreed to create an integrated system for responding to outbreaks of infectious diseases.

In addition, recommendations have been prepared for sharing early-warning data during emergencies, along with a framework programme for cooperation in logistics supply chains.

In technology and innovation, TV BRICS reported that BRICS will establish a network linking start-ups and incubators, and has proposed a BRICS Startup Innovation Fund to support innovative and scalable solutions.

Other cooperation initiatives include BRICS Connect, aimed at skills development, increasing employment, empowering women, strengthening the workforce and social protection.

A BRICS cooperation portal for SMEs has been launched to support small businesses, while the BRICS Digital Agriculture Network will leverage artificial intelligence, geospatial technologies and digital public infrastructure to support farmers.

In the field of sustainable development, a BRICS Digital Centre of Excellence for Smart Grids and Energy Storage Systems has been established, while BRICS countries agreed that indigenous knowledge and the experience of local communities should be taken into account when adapting to the effects of climate change.

Modi stressed that solutions developed within BRICS should not only benefit the group’s countries. They should also be accessible and adapted to the needs of Global South countries.

"The strength of BRICS lies in our diversity and cooperation. May our diversity remain our distinctive feature, our cooperation a source of inspiration, and our progress serve all humanity,” Modi was quoted as saying by TV BRICS.