Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov assured reporters that the successful hosting of the BRICS summit in 2024 in Kazan is guaranteed.
"Luck is a factor, no doubt. Yet rest assured, we've taken all the necessary steps for a successful summit," he replied regarding Russia's preparedness to host the event. "Considering our experiences over the past two decades, we're well-equipped for any scenario," the minister quipped.
The foreign minister noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously outlined the priorities that Russia will advance during its BRICS presidency. "There are also interim duties, such as executing the BRICS economic partnership strategy, effective until the close of 2025," Lavrov highlighted.
Primary focuses
"There's also a document called the Innovation Cooperation Plan, which will be finalized by the end of 2024," he continued. According to the minister, the country holding the chair "is tasked with ensuring the execution of all the projects outlined in it."
Furthermore, within BRICS, as the foreign minister highlighted, various measures were taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the establishment of infectious disease control mechanisms and the creation of a collaborative virus research center. "Given our significant role in healthcare, we will certainly prioritize this area," he affirmed. The existing business council, women's business alliance initiated by the Russian Federation, and the youth forum will maintain their activities. Plans also involve fostering interactions between scientists and cultural figures, the minister emphasized.
"Throughout our presidency, a series of events is scheduled involving prominent academic institutions from all five member countries," - Lavrov further elaborated. - "Perhaps as early as next year, it will expand to encompass all 11 nations." "With the inclusion of significant energy market players such as Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates, the discourse on energy will undoubtedly take on fresh dimensions and become highly relevant," he concluded.
GSV "Russia - Islamic world"
Photo: brics-russia2020.ru/Creative Commons 4.0
Based on materials from TASS