Brazil Hosts First BRICS Sherpas Meeting as Bloc President
Brazil has kicked off the first BRICS Sherpas meeting under its presidency, with Foreign Affairs Minister Mauro Vieira emphasizing the bloc’s crucial role in shaping a fairer and more inclusive world order.
In his opening speech on Tuesday at the Itamaraty Palace in Brasilia, Vieira highlighted the need for stronger multilateralism. \”The response to the crisis of multilateralism is more multilateralism, stronger and more inclusive in all spheres,\” he stated.
Vieira noted that the international order is undergoing profound changes, with existing institutions struggling to adapt. Emerging economies are demanding greater participation in global decisions. \”In this evolving scenario, BRICS plays a fundamental role in promoting a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world order. A multipolar world is not only an emerging reality but a shared objective,\” he said.
The two-day meeting brings together chief negotiators from the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—along with new members Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia. Associated countries such as Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan are also participating.
Discussions are focused on redefining global governance to reflect the realities of the 21st century, ensuring that developing countries are active protagonists. Vieira stressed the importance of an \”open, fair, and balanced\” multilateral trade system that addresses the needs of the Global South and promotes a truly multipolar economic order.
He also emphasized the role of alternative financial mechanisms like the New BRICS Development Bank in financing infrastructure and sustainable projects in emerging economies.
As BRICS president, Brazil aims to prioritize cooperation with the Global South and advance an agenda of social, economic, and environmental development. The focus will be on six key areas: health, trade, climate change, artificial intelligence, reform of the multilateral security system, and strengthening the bloc’s institutions.
The meeting will conclude on Wednesday with a special session featuring Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, where a summary of the discussions will be released.
