BRICS News Digest for the previous week
We will tell you what has happened in economics, politics, culture, science and education in the BRICS countries
BRICS expands healthcare cooperation: member states agree on new joint projects
The plan focuses on advancing joint initiatives, digitalisation and improving the quality of healthcare services

More than 70 representatives of the BRICS countries and their partners adopted a declaration following a visit to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh, northern India.
Russian chemists develop eco-friendly filtration material that works like smart sieve
Films effectively retain valuable molecules

Scientists at Saint Petersburg State University (SPbU), a TV BRICS partner, have developed a technology for creating filtration membranes based on hydroxyapatite – a mineral that makes up human bones and teeth.
Mobile science laboratories boost STEM achievement across South African schools
Hands-on practical learning is helping learners strengthen science skills, improve examination performance and inspire future careers in STEM

South African schools are reporting encouraging progress in science education as mobile and modular laboratories expand access to practical learning, enabling more learners to gain hands-on experience in chemistry and physics.
UAE and Indonesia agree to advance payment systems integration
Particular attention was given to solutions that will make payments faster and more convenient for businesses and citizens of both countries

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Indonesia discussed expanding cooperation between the two countries' banks and the use of digital technologies to simplify cross-border payments.
Ethiopia joins Africa’s early health financing reform initiative to strengthen long-term investment strategies
The country will receive strategic policy and fiscal support as part of a continent-wide effort to strengthen sustainable healthcare funding through domestic reforms and innovative financing

Ethiopia has been chosen as one of the first African countries to participate in a new continental programme aimed at transforming the way healthcare systems are financed, reinforcing national efforts to build more resilient and sustainable funding models.
Brazil launches automated customs clearance to speed up airport arrivals
New digital risk-assessment system allows eligible international air passengers to complete customs procedures without face-to-face inspection

Brazil has introduced a new automated customs clearance system designed to accelerate the arrival process for international air travellers while maintaining border security and customs oversight.
China to expand visa-free entry and digital border services for international travellers
New immigration measures will streamline entry procedures, enhance digital services and support greater international travel to China

China is preparing a new round of immigration reforms aimed at making international travel more convenient by expanding visa-free entry programmes, improving border procedures and accelerating the digital transformation of immigration services.
India sets US$500 billion electronics manufacturing target by 2030
Government outlines sector-specific milestones to expand electronics and semiconductor production as part of India’s vision to become a developed economy by 2047

India is aiming to increase annual electronics and semiconductor production to US$500 billion by 2030 as part of the Viksit Bharat development roadmap, which sets out sector-specific goals on the path towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
Egypt tops Africa in foreign direct investment inflows
Government launches new strategy to attract productive investment, improve business environment and strengthen economic competitiveness

Egypt has become Africa’s leading destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) for the fourth consecutive year, recording total inflows of US$15.5 billion, according to the country’s Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade.
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