Weekly BRICS Update: Key Highlights and Insights You Can’t Miss!
The Republic of Zimbabwe is currently in the process of applying to join BRICS, a group of major emerging economies. This significant development was shared by Amon Murwira, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, during a recent meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow. The discussions emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation in various sectors, including education, space, information and communication technologies, energy, and geological exploration.
In addition to Zimbabwe’s aspirations, other countries are also strengthening their ties through new agreements. For instance, Russia and Myanmar are on the verge of launching new trade and industrial projects. This collaboration, which covers fields such as energy, mining, and livestock, was highlighted by Myanmar’s Prime Minister, Min Aung Hlaing, at a business forum in Moscow. The agreement signifies a pivotal moment in the bilateral relations between these two nations.
Moreover, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has extended an invitation to Mexico, Uruguay, and Colombia to join the upcoming BRICS summit scheduled in Rio de Janeiro this July. President Lula expressed the importance of including these nations in the discussions, stating, “I think that even if they are not physical members, it is important that these countries participate because it is time to have a debate with the whole world.” He highlighted the influence of BRICS, stating that it represents nearly half of the global population and a significant portion of the international gross domestic product.
As Brazil took over the BRICS rotating presidency on January 1, the focus will be on enhancing two crucial aspects at the summit: multilateralism and free trade. Lula emphasized that strengthening these areas is essential for the future of global economic cooperation.
Turning to South Africa, the country has seen a remarkable rise in its agricultural exports, reaching an all-time high of US$13.7 billion in 2024. This represents a 3% increase compared to the previous year. Key agricultural products that contributed to this growth include:
- Citrus fruits
- Grapes
- Wines
- Avocados
- Pineapples
- Fruit juices
- Apples and pears
- Berries
- Apricots and cherries
- Nuts
- Wool
This data was reported by Pretoria News, a partner of TV BRICS. Meanwhile, India has launched its second national gene bank, aiming to preserve biodiversity and enhance food security. This new facility is set to store one million genetic samples, reinforcing India’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Egypt is also making strides in renewable energy production by accelerating the production of green hydrogen and ammonia. This initiative is part of the country’s long-term energy strategy aimed at transitioning to sustainable energy sources.
In a groundbreaking discovery, Chinese scientists have unveiled the mechanism behind cancer treatment using bacteria. This finding could pave the way for the next generation of personalized cancer therapies, offering new hope to patients worldwide.
Furthermore, Iran has developed innovative biodegradable dressings designed for rapid wound healing. It is projected that the country will produce around 500,000 units of this product annually, showcasing its advancements in medical technology.
Ethiopia stands out as a leader in renewable energy, generating almost 100% of its electricity from sustainable sources. The nation is actively working towards climate resilience and sustainable industrialization through comprehensive water management plans and the development of green infrastructure.
In Abu Dhabi, an initiative known as the International Doctors Program has been instrumental in providing medical care to 3,000 patients with complex health issues. This program, which began in the UAE in 2021, showcases the commitment of world-renowned doctors to improving healthcare access for those in need.
Overall, the developments in Zimbabwe, Russia, Myanmar, Brazil, South Africa, India, Egypt, China, Iran, Ethiopia, and the UAE illustrate a global trend towards enhanced cooperation and innovation across various sectors. As these countries continue to engage in strategic partnerships, the potential for economic growth and sustainable development remains promising.
