Senators and experts discuss the group’s priorities on the 20th anniversary of its creation
Over the past 20 years, BRICS has formed an effective multi-level architecture of cooperation, but for further growth it is important to maintain momentum and avoid creating excessive formal structures. This was stated by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov at the round table “Improving the Effectiveness of International Cooperation in the BRICS Format”.
The event was timed to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the group’s creation and was attended by Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council of Russia Konstantin Kosachev, according to the website of the Federal Assembly.
“The unique atmosphere of open and mutually respectful dialogue that has developed within the group has already made BRICS a significant factor in stabilising international relations,” the Deputy Minister noted.
According to Ryabkov, priority should be given to the practical implementation of initiatives such as payment infrastructure, the BRICS Grain Exchange, investment platforms, as well as interparliamentary cooperation and the development of ties between the legislative bodies of the group’s countries at regional and municipal levels.
“Today, BRICS is not simply a dialogue platform for member countries but a genuine mechanism for coordinating positions on sustainable development and reforming global financial and economic institutions” – Andrey Denisov, Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on Foreign Affairs.
In his view, this was confirmed by the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi in September 2026.
Denisov recalled that the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum will take place in New Delhi at the end of October. Among future priorities, he highlighted new technologies, including artificial intelligence and digital platforms.
Federation Council Deputy Speaker Konstantin Kosachev emphasised the importance of developing the parliamentary dimension of BRICS and paid particular attention to the initiative to establish a BRICS+ geopolitical group within the Inter-Parliamentary Union. The initiative was supported by almost all countries of the group, while China confirmed its intention to actively develop this area during its upcoming Chairship in 2027.
African Times published this article in partnership with International Media Network TV BRICS
