Chinese expert names key tasks for BRICS summit in Brazil

Over the years, the BRICS mechanism has evolved from an initial economic concept into a platform for comprehensive cooperation. This was stated by Xie Hongjun, Researcher at the BRICS Research Center of the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE), in an interview with CGTN, a partner of TV BRICS.

The expert emphasised that he has high hopes for the upcoming BRICS summit in Brazil, as it is the first meeting of the leaders of the expanded group of countries. According to him, the summit will bring new content to key areas of cooperation in the trade and economic sphere.

"Firstly, it is the creation of a committee to promote trade among BRICS countries with the aim of unifying certification processes and customs procedures, which [...] will facilitate trade between the countries of the group, sustainable development and business innovation. Secondly, it is the strengthening of the mechanism for technology exchange within BRICS to promote cooperation between member countries in areas such as new energy, artificial intelligence and sustainable development," explained Xie Hongjun.

He expressed the opinion that three main topics will be addressed at the summit: deepening trade and economic cooperation, reforming global governance, and jointly addressing global challenges through the institutional development of BRICS. According to the expert, the focus will be on achieving progress in mutual settlements in national currencies, supply chain coordination and digital trade.

"Of course, artificial intelligence governance will also be a key topic. The main question is how to ensure that control over neural networks serves the interests of the whole world, not just a small group of countries," added Xie Hongjun.

The meeting of the heads of state and government of the BRICS countries will take place in Rio de Janeiro on 6–7 July and will be the main event of Brazil's presidency of the association.

Photo: CGTN