BRICS TOPICS

Focus areas

  • Global Governance
  • International Security & Stability
  • Trade & Economic Cooperation
  • Enhancement of International Financial and Monetary Systems
  • Business and Investment
  • Just Development
  • Environmental Protection
  • Science, High Technology and Innovation
  • Education
  • Healthcare Cooperation

A Call to Conscience – South Africa Reaffirms Solidarity with Palestine

On November 25, 2024, at Freedom Park in Pretoria, South Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, HE Minister Ronald Lamola, delivered his remarks commemorating the 47th UN International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. The event, attended by diplomatic dignitaries, UN representatives, and civil society leaders, emphasized South Africa’s steadfast support for Palestinian self-determination and justice. Minister Lamola reflected on historical parallels between South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle and Palestine's ongoing fight for freedom. Citing the legacy of Nelson Mandela, he reaffirmed that South Africa’s liberation remains incomplete without the freedom of Palestinians. The Minister highlighted South Africa's actions at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to hold Israel accountable for alleged genocide and apartheid policies in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. MInister Lamola underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and called for international action to end Israel’s illegal occupation. He commended recent Palestinian unity talks in Beijing as a hopeful step toward peace and reconciliation, lauding the resilience of negotiators and stakeholders in advancing dialogue. With over 43,000 Palestinians killed and millions displaced due to ongoing hostilities, Lamola urged the global community to uphold human rights and humanitarian law. He emphasized that justice for Palestine is not an act of hostility but a moral imperative, echoing the call for mutual peace through a two-state solution. The speech served as a poignant reminder of South Africa's historical solidarity with Palestine and its commitment to advocating for justice, peace, and the restoration of Palestinian rights on the world stage.

A Compelling Compendium

Given China’s massive importance in the contemporary world system, the governance of the country is of broad and universal interest. Chinese President Xi Jinping, who is also General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, has provided a fascinating collection of his spoken and written works, offering both domestic and international audiences the tool to navigate through the issues, thinking and practices that are central to the governance of modern China. The fourth volume of the work, following the tradition of the previous volumes, follows the trajectory of clarifying and elaborating the issues that have an impact on the governance of contemporary China and the world. While President Xi’s thinking is profuse and establishes him as an outstanding proletarian theoretician, the sheer breadth and depth of his work benefit from the expansive thought infrastructure of the Party accumulated from the spring of its wisdom and validated by the practice of seeking truth from facts. In the new era characterised by opportunities, challenges and even risks, the theoretical framework and outline of the “Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era,” the latest development in the Party’s theoretical innovation, offers the framework for exploring modernisation in its total ramifications. Against the background of the central role of President Xi in the modernisation and national rejuvenation, his written and spoken works captured in the fourth volume of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China provide an unassailable gateway to understanding modern China.

Draft remarks by Madam Nguyen Thi Tuyen, Permanent Deputy Secretary of the Ha Noi Party Committee at the "Conference on the Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion between Viet Nam – South Africa 2024 "

H.E.Hoàng Sỹ Cường - Ambassador of Viet Nam to South Africa,Mr. Mtho Xulu, President of the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry,Distinguished guests,Today, I am truly delighted to attend the"Conference on the Investment, Trade, and Tourism Promotion between Viet Nam – South Africa 2024 " under the theme “Ha Noi: A Destination of Opportunities and Potential for Cooperation.” On behalf of the leadership of Ha Noi, I would like to extend my warmest greetings and best wishes to all distinguished guests present here today.Distinguished guests,On November 22, 1993, Viet Nam and South Africa formally established diplomatic relations. Despite geographical separation, the two countries, anchored by close historical bonds, have nurtured a profound and traditional friendship over the past three decades, yielding substantial and ever-more effective cooperation across multiple domains. Viet Nam holds this relationship in high regard, recognizing South Africa as a primary partner within Africa. Bilateral ties have flourished,especially in the realms of economy, trade, and technology. Today, South Africa stands as Viet Nam's largest trade partner and export market on the continent,with an average annual trade turnover of USD 1.2 billion in recent years. Both countries envision broader collaboration opportunities spanning trade, tourism,cultural exchange, arts, and education.

SPEECH BY THE HON NONCEBA MHLAULI, MP, DEPUTY MINISTER IN THE PRESIDENCY ON THE OCCASION OF THE UNDP OSF ROUND TABLE PRETORIA

Deputy Minister Nonceba Mhlauli delivered a speech at the UNDP OSF Round Table on October 28, 2024, in Pretoria, underscoring South Africa's commitment to a Just Energy Transition (JET) aimed at sustainable, inclusive growth. President Ramaphosa recently emphasized that low-carbon, climate-resilient development is central to South Africa's economic priorities. The government's JET Investment and Implementation Plans (2023-2027) reflect this focus, as does the Presidential Climate Commission's strategy for renewable energy expansion, targeting 50-60GW over the next decade. Mhlauli highlighted South Africa's unwavering dedication to climate goals enshrined in the Paris Agreement and its emissions targets outlined in the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC). The newly signed Climate Change Act plays a pivotal role in this dedication, mandating the alignment of all government policies with emissions reduction goals, introducing carbon budgets for major emitters and sectoral emissions targets. This Act represents the country's legal commitment to climate mitigation, while also prioritizing the reduction of poverty, inequality, and unemployment. Achieving JET goals requires an estimated $98 billion investment across renewable energy, new energy vehicles, and green hydrogen sectors. The government addresses critical skills gaps through a dedicated JET Skills Desk and Skills Development Zones focused on emerging industries to support this transition, especially in Mpumalanga. However, the success of this transition is not solely in the hands of the government. Collaboration across government, the private sector, educational institutions, and communities will be vital. We all have a role to play in this transformative journey. In closing, Mhlauli emphasized that the Just Energy Transition offers not only environmental benefits but also significant economic growth, job creation, and enhanced energy security for all South Africans. This transition is not just about reducing our carbon footprint, but also about creating new opportunities and a more prosperous future for our nation. Through this transition, South Africa aims to become a leader in renewable energy, fostering a resilient and sustainable future.

Ties That Matter

Cooperation with China is crucial for Nigeria to grow its economy and implement the AfCFTA Agreement. It has been my privilege to witness a huge transformation and pivot as well as an enormous development of China from a close distance during my years living in China. I will say that if ever there was a time when African countries needed to be modernised, it is now. Themed Joining Hands to Advance Modernisation and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future, the goal of the 2024 Summit on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing is to strengthen China-Africa cooperation in a way that will help African countries to emulate China’s “new” long march towards modernisation. FOCAC can usher in a new era of cooperation, which is both sustainable and mutually beneficial as well. During the course of China’s deepening economic ties with African countries, it is simultaneously gaining critical support in international forums, allowing China to exert more influence in the world. As China seeks to challenge and reshape a world order it perceives to be biased and inequitable, this kind of support is essential for it to succeed. Since Africa is a continent whose economic value to China is undeniable, the opportunities that China is offering African countries, including Nigeria, to follow the strategies behind its path to a “new” long march to has the potential to open up significant development opportunities that are not otherwise available to African countries.

Outcomes of the BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting 11 October 2024

BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, under Russia’s chairmanship, met under the theme “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security.” The joint statement addresses several key areas: Integration of New Members: The group emphasizes cooperation with newly joined BRICS members and appreciates their proactive contributions. Economic Outlook and Policy: Despite global challenges, BRICS economies have shown resilience with strong GDP growth in 2023-2024, surpassing developed countries. This growth was supported by prudent policies, domestic demand, and international market conditions. Future policies will focus on strengthening economic fundamentals and maintaining fiscal prudence. Global Financial Governance Reform: BRICS calls for reform in international financial institutions, such as the IMF and World Bank, to improve the representation of developing nations. They advocate for non-discriminatory trade practices and oppose unilateral sanctions. Improving International Monetary and Financial Systems (IMFS): BRICS stresses the need for the IMFS to reflect developing economies' growing role. They support Russia’s Chairmanship's efforts to improve the system with principles of security, inclusion, and sustainability. Practical Financial Cooperation: BRICS countries are working towards better financial cooperation, including initiatives like cross-border payments, promoting the use of local currencies, and exploring financial infrastructure integration. Customs and Tax Cooperation: There is ongoing collaboration on customs matters, including Mutual Administrative Assistance Agreements. Additionally, the group emphasizes systematic tax cooperation, promoting tax transparency, and supporting the UN’s inclusive international tax framework. Infrastructure Investment: The BRICS Public-Private Partnership and Infrastructure Task Force recognizes blended finance as a key tool to mobilize private capital for infrastructure projects, particularly to meet the Sustainable Development Goals. New Development Bank (NDB): BRICS supports the NDB’s efforts to expand membership, enhance governance, and promote infrastructure financing in local currencies. BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA): The CRA continues to provide financial support during crises, with planned amendments to improve flexibility and inclusivity. Technological and Financial Security Cooperation: The group acknowledges the importance of cybersecurity in finance and welcomes joint research on payment systems, information security, and AI in finance. This joint statement reinforces BRICS' commitment to promoting multilateralism, addressing the needs of developing nations, and strengthening financial cooperation within the group.

Together, Answering the Question of Our Time and Creating a Bright Future: "Thucydides Trap or Orderly Multipolar World" Conference by Ambassador Wu Peng

Ambassador Wu Peng Calls for Global Cooperation at “Thucydides Trap or Orderly Multipolar World” Conference On October 11, 2024, at the Protea Hotel Balalaika in Sandton, Ambassador Wu Peng delivered a powerful speech at the “Thucydides Trap or Orderly Multipolar World” Conference, hosted by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection (MISTRA). The event, attended by notable figures including Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola, addressed critical issues of global relations and multipolarity. Amb. Wu emphasized that the so-called “Thucydides Trap”—the idea that rising powers and established powers are destined for conflict—is not inevitable. He stressed that China and the U.S. must pursue a path of cooperation rather than confrontation to benefit the future of humanity. Citing President Xi Jinping, Amb. Wu highlighted that mutual respect and win-win collaboration are essential for avoiding strategic miscalculations. The Ambassador also discussed the broader global landscape, advocating for a transition to an orderly multipolar world where all nations contribute to shared development. He underscored China’s commitment to peaceful development and inclusive globalization through initiatives like the Belt and Road and the Global Development Initiative. Regarding China-Africa relations, Amb. Wu praised the ongoing cooperation through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and encouraged diversified partnerships in Africa’s development. He noted recent successes, such as the entry of 21 tons of South African avocados into the Chinese market, as symbols of this growing cooperation. Amb. Wu’s call for collaboration and a shared future aligns with the goals of BRICS Africa to promote peace, development, and cooperation among emerging economies. His remarks reinforced the role of partnerships in overcoming global challenges and building a brighter future for all.

Thucydides Trap – Challenges and Opportunities for Africa at the MISTRA CONFERENCE EXPLORING AFRICA'S ROLE IN GLOBAL GEOPOLITICS, By Minister Ronald Lamola

Thucydides Trap – Challenges and Opportunities for Africa On October 11, 2024, Minister Ronald Lamola delivered a critical address, reflecting on the 'Thucydides Trap' and its implications for Africa. Drawing from Thucydides' historical analysis, Lamola discussed how geopolitical rivalries and the erosion of multilateralism shape today's global order. He stressed that Africa, caught in proxy wars and facing economic marginalisation, must assert its agency through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and responsible management of critical minerals, making the audience feel empowered and responsible for their continent's future. Minister Lamola emphasised Africa's potential to lead in re-industrialisation, foster genuine partnerships, and advocate for more climate financing. Highlighting the global crisis exacerbated by geopolitical conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and Middle East tensions, he noted that Africa has an opportunity to shape a more just and prosperous future, inspiring hope and determination in the audience. Key points in his speech included Africa's responsibility to reclaim its resources, prioritize development, and support multilateralism to secure a more equitable global order. Minister Lamola urged Africans to unify and champion "African solutions for African problems" as the pathway to global engagement and accountability. This reflection serves as a clarion call for Africa to navigate the complex terrain of global power struggles while seizing the opportunities for growth and influence in the shifting international landscape.

THUCYDIDES TRAP OR ORDERLY MULTIPOLAR WORLD: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR AFRICA By Joel Netshitenzhe

Joel Netshitenzhe, a renowned strategist and intellectual from South Africa, urgently explores the geopolitical shifts impacting Africa within the context of a potential "Thucydides Trap" or the emergence of a more orderly multipolar world. In his 2024 address at the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, Netshitenzhe emphasises Africa's critical role in global power transitions, advocating for strategic engagement and the assertion of African interests. Netshitenzhe's analysis of great power competition is underpinned by his engagement with theoretical frameworks like the "Thucydides Trap." This framework, which posits that incumbent and rising powers are prone to conflict, is contrasted by Netshitenzhe with the possibility of a peaceful multipolar order. He references Graham Allison's warning of a potential war between the U.S. and China, while also citing critiques by David Kang and Xinru Ma, who argue for peaceful transitions, especially in East Asia. This rigorous analysis demonstrates Netshitenzhe's deep understanding of geopolitics and his commitment to exploring all possible outcomes. Netshitenzhe's address underscores Africa's unique opportunities, particularly its vast natural resources, demographic dividend, and critical minerals needed for a low-carbon future. He calls for the continent to leverage these opportunities in initiatives like Agenda 2063, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD). This proactive engagement, he stresses, is crucial for Africa's strategic importance in shaping a new global order and navigating great power rivalries to its advantage. Netshitenzhe's analytical approach demonstrates his deep engagement with transdisciplinary insights into geopolitics, history, economics, and technological progress. His work reflects a critical vision for Africa's future as a proactive player on the global stage, capable of shaping international relations while avoiding the pitfalls of external dependencies and historical failures.

Sebastian Sperling at the Mistra Conference "Thucydides Trap or Orderly Multipolar World?"

Sebastian Sperling of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung South Africa addressed the conference "Thucydides Trap or Orderly Multipolar World?" in Johannesburg on October 10, 2024. He thanked the organizers, emphasizing the need to focus on global geopolitics beyond domestic concerns, particularly regarding the involvement of countries like India, China, and Germany in shaping the international landscape. Sperling highlighted the shift from a unipolar world, once dominated by the U.S. after the Cold War, to a multipolar order. He argued that this new world is far from orderly, with escalating conflicts in regions like Gaza, Lebanon, Ukraine, and Sudan, revealing the outdated structure of global institutions such as the United Nations. Referring to the Thucydides Trap—the idea that rising powers inevitably clash with established ones—Sperling noted that this simplistic view does not fully explain the complexity of today’s world. Instead, he stressed the importance of understanding the agency of Global South countries, which seek independence from global power blocs. He pointed out that the rise of authoritarianism, ethno-nationalism, and corporate power exacerbates global inequalities and undermines democracy, leaving marginalized communities even more vulnerable. Sperling underscored the need for progressives and democratic forces to address these challenges with new economic and development strategies. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of forging strategic alliances across different sectors, globally and within nations, to tackle issues such as the climate crisis, inequality, and the current polycrisis. The speech urged political engagement and cooperation at various levels to confront the multifaceted crises of today’s world. Read Mr Sperling's full speech below:

South Africa’s Untapped Oil and Gas Potential Highlighted at Africa Oil Week

South Africa’s Untapped Oil and Gas Potential Highlighted at Africa Oil Week Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe emphasized the significant potential for oil and gas in South Africa's underexplored deep waters during the Africa Oil Week in Cape Town. The discovery of gas and condensate in the South Outeniqua Basin and recent findings in Namibia's Orange Basin underscore the region's prospects. Mantashe highlighted eight discoveries in the Orange Basin, made by TotalEnergies, Shell, and Galp, potentially holding 3.5 billion barrels of recoverable oil. These discoveries could extend into South Africa, increasing interest from global petroleum companies. Despite TotalEnergies' withdrawal from Blocks 11B/12B and 5/6/7 offshore, Mantashe assured the viability of these blocks and noted opportunities for new partnerships. He stressed the growing momentum of exploration projects in South Africa’s Orange Basin, including preparations for deep-water drilling and environmental authorization processes for new blocks. However, Mantashe acknowledged legal challenges to exploration, referencing the abandonment of seismic surveys by Shell and ENI due to litigation. He also discussed government efforts to secure petroleum supply by acquiring assets of the SAPREF refinery, reinforcing South Africa's downstream energy sector. The Minister called for continued investment in Africa’s oil and gas development to ensure a sustainable energy future.

Strengthening China-South Africa Relations and Modernization. Mr Li Yuze, Director of China's National Financial Regulatory Administration

Mr. Li Yuze highlights Strengthening China-South Africa Relations and Modernization at Media Briefing Mr. Li Yuze, Director of China's National Financial Regulatory Administration, delivered a speech emphasizing the deepening partnership between China and South Africa during a media briefing in Pretoria. He highlighted the historic friendship between the two nations, united by a shared vision for development, cooperation, and mutual support. As both countries pursue modernization, Mr. Li stressed the importance of collaboration in politics, economy, and trade, leveraging shared experiences and mutual goals. Reflecting on China’s achievements under the leadership of the Communist Party, Mr. Li noted that China has rapidly modernized, experiencing remarkable economic growth and social stability. This progress has positioned China as a key player in the global economy, contributing significantly to the world’s GDP. As South Africa works toward its National Development Plan 2030, Mr. Li expressed China’s readiness to support South Africa in its path to modernization, including cooperation in governance, financial industries, and innovation. Mr. Li also reiterated China’s commitment to high-standard opening-up, inviting South Africa to join hands in benefiting from China’s openness. He highlighted China’s initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative, and encouraged South African businesses to explore opportunities in China’s expanding market. In conclusion, Mr. Li reinforced China’s dedication to world peace and development, emphasizing the importance of cooperation with South Africa within global frameworks such as the United Nations and BRICS. Both countries, as major developing nations, have a unique role in shaping the future, promoting shared prosperity, and supporting the Global South's development goals.

BRICS Ministers of Agriculture Address Global Food Security at 14th Meeting in Moscow

On June 28, 2024, the BRICS Ministers of Agriculture held their 14th meeting in Moscow under the chairmanship of the Russian Federation, themed “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security.” With new members joining BRICS in January 2024, the ministers emphasized the significance of the bloc in addressing global food security, given that BRICS nations account for over 45% of the world's population and 30% of global agricultural land. The ministers expressed concern about ongoing food security challenges, highlighting the importance of increasing agricultural productivity while focusing on the needs of vulnerable populations, including women, children, and smallholder farmers. They also stressed the need to tackle threats to food security such as natural disasters, climate change, and trade restrictions, while reaffirming their commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly zero hunger. The ministers discussed the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, promoting indigenous crops, reducing food waste, and enhancing the use of innovative technologies like digital infrastructure to transform the agricultural sector. They also emphasized the critical role of mutual trade among BRICS nations, calling for fair and transparent agricultural trade policies to avoid disruptions caused by unjustified trade restrictions. Looking forward, BRICS nations plan to enhance agricultural research cooperation, develop sustainable agri-food value chains, and continue leveraging South-South cooperation to improve food security in developing countries. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further cooperation under Brazil’s chairmanship in 2025, where a new action plan for agricultural collaboration will be developed.

Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, South African Minister of Electricity and Energy: BRICS is an excellent platform for member countries to exchange views, technologies, and skills by TV BRICS

South Africa's Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa on Utilizing BRICS to Address Energy Challenges Kgosientsho David Ramokgopa, the newly appointed Minister of Electricity and Energy of South Africa, has outlined his vision for the country's energy sector. In his recent statements, Ramokgopa emphasized the importance of leveraging the BRICS platform to tackle South Africa's pressing energy needs. With BRICS representing 35% of the world's GDP, Ramokgopa sees immense potential in learning from fellow member nations like Russia, China, and India, which have successfully operated coal-fired power plants while making strides in renewable energy. Ramokgopa highlighted the need for a balanced approach to energy diversification. South Africa aims to integrate renewable energy sources such as solar and wind into its energy mix while continuing to rely on coal and gas. He stressed that renewable technologies are intermittent, and therefore, traditional energy sources remain crucial for consistent power supply. Furthermore, Ramokgopa acknowledged the role of BRICS countries in expanding energy access across the globe, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. He pointed out that countries like South Africa, Ethiopia, and Egypt are committed to improving access to energy, especially in rural and remote areas, through modern solutions like solar photovoltaics. Ramokgopa also expressed enthusiasm for the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing the energy sector. He believes AI has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of energy production and distribution, benefiting both South Africa and other BRICS nations.

CONGRATULATORY REMARKS ON THE OCCASION OF THE NATIONAL DAY OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA (PRC) BY THE MINISTER OF HUMAN SETTLEMENTS MINISTER MMAMOLOKO KUBAYI

South Africa's Minister of Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, delivered congratulatory remarks in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC). Minister Kubayi expressed heartfelt congratulations to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese government, highlighting the enduring strength of the bilateral relations between South Africa and China, which have flourished since diplomatic ties were established in 1998. Minister Kubayi underscored the positive trajectory of the relationship, noting the recent high-level engagements, including President Ramaphosa's state visit to China and the 2024 FOCAC Summit in Beijing. She emphasized the importance of deepening economic ties, particularly in trade, investment, infrastructure, and the beneficiation of raw materials in South Africa, with an eye toward the vast African market and the African Continental Free Trade Area. Culturally, she highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance people-to-people exchanges and boost tourism between the two nations. Furthermore, Kubayi paid tribute to the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, which remain relevant today as South Africa and China continue to work closely in international affairs and multilateral institutions. In closing, she reiterated South Africa's commitment to strengthening cooperation with China, promoting shared global peace, development, and prosperity, and fostering the mutually beneficial "All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in the new Era." The celebration concluded with a toast to the deep bonds of friendship between the peoples of South Africa and China.

Celebrating South African Heritage Month of September in Moscow, — A Monument to Legacy, Hope, and Justice. By Ayanda Hollow

The article celebrates South African Heritage Month in Moscow by highlighting the unveiling of a Nelson Mandela monument, symbolizing peace, justice, and unity. Positioned at the intersection of Michurinsky Prospekt and Ramensky Boulevard, this statue is more than just a tribute; it represents Mandela’s enduring legacy of dismantling apartheid and fostering reconciliation, peace, and equality. The statue's unveiling, overseen by the Russian Military Historical Society, signifies Mandela's global influence, uniting nations such as South Africa and Russia through shared ideals. His legacy is not limited to South Africa but resonates worldwide, inspiring a collective commitment to justice and equality. The monument, with intricate African indigenous designs, reflects Mandela’s spirit of global unity and shared leadership in a multipolar world. The author, Ayanda Hollow, reflecting on this moment, emphasizes that Mandela's fight was not only against apartheid but against oppression and inequality everywhere. As the author places roses at the monument, the message is clear: Mandela's vision of peace and justice is a call to action for all, urging us to continue his legacy by fostering global cooperation and unity. It is a reminder that we each have a role to play in building a just and peaceful world. This celebration of Mandela’s legacy invites us to act now for peace and reconciliation, ensuring that the world Mandela envisioned becomes a reality for all people, regardless of nationality.

PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA AT THE 79TH SESSION OF THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

President Cyril Ramaphosa's Address to the 79th UN General Assembly On September 25, 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, reflecting on South Africa's journey since the end of apartheid thirty years ago. He acknowledged the UN's pivotal role in the global fight against apartheid, marking it as a turning point for human rights advocacy. The President highlighted South Africa's progress, emphasizing the nation's commitment to a democratic framework characterized by a strong constitution, human rights culture, and efforts aimed at economic growth, job creation, and sustainability. He mentioned South Africa's dedication to international treaties, including the Paris Agreement, and recent endorsements, such as the Pact for the Future, aimed at enhancing global governance and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Ramaphosa spoke candidly about the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by the Palestinian people in Gaza, drawing parallels between their struggles and South Africa's fight against apartheid. He condemned the violence inflicted upon Gaza, calling for global action and an immediate ceasefire while reaffirming South Africa's efforts at the International Court of Justice to prevent genocide against the Palestinian people. Addressing broader global issues, the President stressed the need for reform in the UN Security Council to better represent Africa and its 1.4 billion inhabitants. He called for intensified cooperation between the African Union and the UN to resolve conflicts and foster peace across the continent. Highlighting the pressing threats posed by pandemics and climate change, Ramaphosa urged the international community to support initiatives that enable developing nations to address these crises effectively. He called out the rich nations for not fulfilling their climate commitments and reiterated the need for sustainable financing to close the $4 trillion annual gap in achieving the SDGs. As South Africa prepares to assume the G20 presidency in 2025, Ramaphosa expressed the commitment to advocate for the interests of Africa and the Global South. He concluded with a call for renewed international solidarity and cooperation as a pathway to a better future, emphasizing the collective responsibility to combat inequality and foster human rights and development for all. This address reflects South Africa's ongoing commitment to global citizenship, resilience in the face of historical challenges, and aspiration for a just world.

Eastern Economic Forum-2024 plenary session discusses the role of BRICS countries and Global South in the world economy

The 9th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) featured a key plenary session focused on the role of BRICS countries and the Global South in the global economy. Russian President Vladimir Putin, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and Chinese Vice President Han Zheng were among the participants. President Putin highlighted the Far East's development as a long-term national priority and noted the reorientation of global business and trade towards the East and Global South. He underscored the importance of BRICS, which represents a third of the global economy, with 65% of its trade conducted in national currencies. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stressed the Global South's growing influence, contributing over 50% of the world’s GDP and comprising 80% of the global population. He emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to fostering a balanced world order and highlighted the potential benefits of strengthening ties with BRICS and ASEAN. Vice President Han Zheng of China discussed the thriving trade relationship between Russia's Far East and China’s northeastern provinces, which reached over $60 billion in the first half of the year. He also called for enhanced cooperation in green energy, digital economy, education, and culture. The forum, with over 6,000 delegates from 75 countries, focused on regional development, external relations, and international cooperation. The event included discussions on logistics, energy, and mining, with additional activities like sports games and cultural events. TV BRICS served as the media partner.

BRICS countries explore the prospects for palladium in hydrogen power generation, By Ayanda Holo, President of TV BRICS AFRICA

The 6th Meeting of the BRICS Working Group on Materials Science and Nanotechnology, held in Ekaterinburg from August 27 to 30, 2024, brought together over 50 scientists from BRICS nations, including Russia, China, Brazil, India, Egypt, UAE, and South Africa. The event, coordinated by Russia, focused on advancing materials science and nanotechnology, with a particular emphasis on the potential of palladium in hydrogen energy. Researchers highlighted palladium's promising role in hydrogen power generation, especially in its nanostructured form when combined with other platinoids. Palladium-based materials and alloys were recognized for their potential to reduce production costs and scale up hydrogen technologies within the BRICS countries. Notable projects showcased included palladium-based materials for hydrogen-air fuel cells and membranes for producing high-purity hydrogen. These developments were praised for their potential to outperform existing Western technologies and drive further innovation in hydrogen energy. The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts among BRICS nations in advancing hydrogen technologies, with palladium emerging as a key component in simplifying and enhancing the catalytic processes in hydrogen energy production. The event highlighted the commitment of BRICS countries to foster cooperation and innovation in this critical area of energy development.

BRICS AFRICA CHANNEL Promoting Digital Empowerment for the New Development of Media in China and Africa

President of BRICS AFRICA CHANNEL, attends the 6th Forum on China-Africa Media Cooperation & Africa Think Tanks High-Level Dialogue in Beijing, China. During his address, Mr Ayanda Hollow highlighted the growing unity among Global South Media Nations, particularly through partnerships like the one between BRICS AFRICA CHANNEL and China's National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA). He emphasized the transformative power of digital economic partnerships, citing the BRICS Declaration on Digital Economic Partnerships in 2022 as a foundation for breaking down barriers in global storytelling. He also discussed the role of platforms like StarSat and StarTimes ON in meeting the evolving media consumption habits of younger audiences, who increasingly rely on mobile devices for content. Mr. Hollow underscored the importance of crafting and sharing narratives that reflect the diverse experiences of the Global South. He called for investment in media and broadcasting infrastructure in Africa, positioning cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Lagos, and Nairobi as key hubs for creative collaboration. He concluded by urging continued efforts to empower communities through media, especially in the face of global challenges like climate change and poverty. Mr. Hollow's speech resonated with a call to action: to embrace the digital age, tell our stories with passion, and work together to ensure that the voices of the Global South are heard and respected worldwide.

Delegations from 126 countries are invited to BRICS International Municipal Forum in Moscow

The VI International Municipal Forum (IMF) of the BRICS countries will be held in Moscow on August 27-28, 2024, under Russia's BRICS Chairmanship. Delegations from 126 countries have been invited to participate, with over 40 foreign delegations already confirmed, including those from Brazil, China, India, UAE, Iran, Ethiopia, and tentatively Egypt and South Africa. The event will be hosted at the "Expocentre" and is supported by various Russian government bodies, with TV BRICS as the international media partner. The forum will cover 13 areas of work, featuring more than 70 business events on topics such as international municipal cooperation, economy, digital technologies, industry, energy, urban infrastructure, transport, ecology, healthcare, education, science, culture, sports, and tourism. Alongside the discussions, there will be a large-scale exhibition, including "DIGITECH+" and "Mechanical Engineering: Strategies and Technologies." Mikhail Sverdlov, Director of the BRICS Business Communications Support Foundation, anticipates around five thousand participants from 500 cities worldwide. The forum aims to foster business contacts and urban development projects, particularly highlighting Russian entrepreneurs looking to expand into foreign markets like China, India, and the Gulf countries. The forum is seen as an important platform for exchanging experience and ideas among regional and municipal representatives from the BRICS countries and beyond.

The Eastern Economic Forum 2024: A Beacon of Global Cooperation in the Far East

The Eastern Economic Forum 2024 The Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), which will be held from September 3rd to 6th in Vladivostok, Russia, is a vital platform for international cooperation among non-Western nations. Since its launch in 2015, the forum has facilitated discussions on crucial economic issues, resulting in significant agreements and partnerships. The 2023 EEF recorded 373 agreements worth 3.818 trillion Rubles, a testament to the forum's impact on economic growth and sustainable development. These agreements, which, have significantly influenced international relations and economic development. Looking ahead to 2024, key themes include: The strengthening of relationships in the Asia-Pacific region. The exploration of the Arctic's economic potential. Enhanced Russian-Chinese relations. The EEF's commitment to international diplomacy is exemplified by the anticipated agreement to cancel the visa regime between Russia and Myanmar. This is a clear demonstration of the forum's dedication to fostering global relations and promoting international cooperation. The EEF symbolises a shift towards multilateralism and regional cooperation, positioning the Asia-Pacific as a hub of global economic activity. With its unwavering focus on sustainability and collaborative solutions, the EEF 2024 is a beacon of hope for anyone interested in the future of global economics and environmental sustainability. Stay informed about the Eastern Economic Forum's impact on international relations and economic development.