From January 2th - April 1st
Article: BRICS expansion shows its bright prospect: FM spokesperson
Date: 2024-01-02
Publisher: XinhuaNet
Link： https://english.news.cn/20240102/9f8f043b8b194529a6efca2eef4b5a58/c.html
Description:
BEIJING, Jan. 2 (Xinhua) -- BRICS expansion has shown its bright prospect, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday at a daily press briefing.
Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iran, and Ethiopia joined BRICS on January 1, doubling its membership from 5 to 10.
Wang said China is fully confident in the BRICS' future, noting that BRICS cooperation mechanism has increased cohesiveness and influence and become a positive and stable force for good in international affairs.
At the request of relevant countries, BRICS decided to expand its membership, which serves the common aspiration of emerging markets and developing countries, and follows the global trend towards multipolarity, Wang said.
"We will work with BRICS partners to strive for new results in greater BRICS cooperation," the spokesperson said.
Article: BRICS enlargement can help boost confidence and promote fair and just global governance: China Daily editorial
Date: 2024-01-04
Publisher: chinadaily.com.cn
Link: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202401/04/WS6596a1bca3105f21a507a9c0.html
Description:
Argentinian President Javier Milei's decision to hold off on joining BRICS won't diminish the bloc's appeal, especially after welcoming Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Ethiopia as new members. The expansion underscores BRICS' global significance and unity among developing countries. BRICS, now 18 years old, has fostered cooperation through institutions like the New Development Bank, vital for global South development. Amid global challenges, BRICS aims to promote shared growth and multilateralism. With the world facing turbulence and Western powers fueling division, BRICS stands as a beacon for emerging economies and multipolarity. China, a founding member, is committed to deepening cooperation within BRICS for a brighter global future.
Article: BRICS can help promote a fairer world order
Date: 2024-01-09
Publisher: By Maya Majueran | CHINA DAILY
Link: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202401/09/WS659c8632a3105f21a507b32e.html
Description:
BRICS aims to reform the global order to be fairer for the Global South, countering Western dominance. The US and allies' double standards, exemplified in the Israel-Palestine conflict, highlight the need for change. With the inclusion of new members, BRICS seeks to strengthen its influence, promote multipolarism, and establish fair trade mechanisms independent of US control. BRICS' potential adoption of a common currency could challenge the US dollar's global dominance. The shift reflects the emergence of the Global South as a significant player, urging the US and its allies to address their concerns and work towards a more inclusive global governance system.
Article: Greater BRICS cooperation enjoys bright prospects
Date: 2024-01-10
Publisher: By He Yin (People's Daily)
Link: http://en.people.cn/n3/2024/0110/c90000-20120068.html
Description:
BRICS welcomed Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Ethiopia as new members on Jan. 1, 2024, doubling its membership and bolstering its global influence. The expansion reflects the growing desire among emerging markets and developing countries to unite for mutual improvement. China, as a key advocate for expansion, views BRICS as an open and inclusive platform for cooperation. The mechanism, evolving since its inception in 2006, has become a stabilizing force amidst global complexities. Amid rising unilateralism and power politics, BRICS emphasizes solidarity and fairness. The new members express optimism about the benefits of BRICS cooperation. With broader geographical coverage and enhanced cooperation, BRICS aims to promote peace, development, and international justice. BRICS advocates for democracy in international relations and true multilateralism, avoiding bloc confrontation. The expanded group is seen as crucial in mitigating geopolitical tensions and advancing multilateralism. China remains committed to BRICS cooperation and aims to contribute to a fairer, more equitable global governance system.
(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Article: No member dominates BRICS, says South Africa's finance minister
Date: 2024-01-19
Publisher: By Zheng Wanyin in London | chinadaily.com.cn
Link: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202401/19/WS65a97d98a3105f21a507d1ac.html
Description:
Enoch Godongwana, South Africa's finance minister, emphasized the consensus-based nature of BRICS during a panel session at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He stated that no country dominates within BRICS, highlighting mutual respect and decision-making by consensus. In contrast, he noted the dominance of the US and Europe in the World Bank and IMF. Godongwana's remarks received applause from the audience. BRICS, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, was founded as a platform for major emerging economies. In 2023, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Argentina were announced as new members, although Argentina later withdrew.
zhengwanyin@mail.chinadailyuk.com
Article: BRICS can help boost global economy
Date: 2024-01-20
Publisher: By ZHENG WANYIN in London | CHINA DAILY
Link: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202401/20/WS65ab04a0a3105f21a507d576.html
Description:
During a panel session titled "BRICS in Expansion" at the World Economic Forum in Davos, government officials and industry experts discussed the potential benefits of BRICS enlargement for the global economy. The historic expansion, announced in August, invited six new countries to join BRICS: Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Argentina (though Argentina later withdrew). Participants highlighted the potential of expanded BRICS to ease global inflationary pressures by increasing trade flows and connecting policies. Gao Jifan, chairman of Trina Solar, emphasized the role of BRICS in promoting green development through the dissemination of renewable energy technologies. Responding to questions about dominance within BRICS, South Africa's finance minister, Enoch Godongwana, emphasized the consensus-based decision-making process, contrasting it with the dominance of the US and Europe in Bretton Woods institutions. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE's economy minister, emphasized that BRICS is driven by economic opportunities rather than political agendas, aligning with the global South-South trade and economic agenda.
zhengwanyin@mail.chinadailyuk.com
Article: BRICS New Development Bank issues record amount of 5-year panda bonds
Date: 2024-02-01
Publisher: XinhuaNet, Editor: huaxia
Link: https://english.news.cn/20240201/905db7683d564c4e8dbfb9379a4e1fc5/c.html
Description:
he BRICS New Development Bank on Thursday announced that it has issued 6 billion yuan (about 844.5 million U.S. dollars) of five-year panda bonds in the China Interbank Bond Market.
The transaction is the largest-ever five-year panda bond issuance, and it is the first panda bond issuance this year by a multilateral development bank in the China Interbank Bond Market.
"The successful issuance of largest-ever five-year panda bond marks a pivotal moment for the New Development Bank. It demonstrates the strong market appeal of our mission and mandate to mobilize resources for financing infrastructure and sustainable development," said Leslie Maasdorp, the bank's vice president and CFO.
The transaction not only showcases the immense interest of investors, but also highlights their confidence in the bank's strategic evolution into a leading provider of infrastructure and sustainable development solutions for emerging markets and developing countries, according to him.
"The New Development Bank looks forward to further strengthening its presence in the China Interbank Bond Market, and we remain committed to leveraging this success to further contribute to sustainable development and economic growth in our member countries," he added.
The total amount of panda bonds issued by the bank to date has hit 47.5 billion yuan.
Headquartered in Shanghai, the New Development Bank was established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS member nations and in other emerging market economies and developing countries.
Article: South Africa tourism gets BRICS boost
Date: 2024-02-05
Publisher: By NDUMISO MLILO, China Daily Global
Link: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202402/05/WS65c03932a3104efcbdae9abf.html
Description:
South Africa experienced a significant increase in tourism last year, with a 49 percent rise in international visitors, totaling 8.5 million arrivals. This surge was attributed to favorable visa policies, particularly the visa-free entry for Kenyans, and increased arrivals from BRICS countries. Africa accounted for 75 percent of arrivals, with notable increases from Asia, including a 69 percent rise from BRICS nations. South Africa's hosting of the 15th BRICS Summit also attracted tourists from member countries, with significant increases noted in Indian and United Arab Emirates visitors. Efforts to improve visa processing aim to further boost tourism, particularly from China, which saw a remarkable 205 percent increase in arrivals. The tourism sector's recovery is seen as a result of effective destination marketing amidst the challenges posed by COVID-19.
Article: China ready to work with all parties to deepen BRICS strategic partnership: spokesperson
Date: 2024-02-22
Publisher: XinhuaNet, Editor: huaxia
Link: https://english.news.cn/20240222/6606a32298324086adb0475029ea90a1/c.html
Description:
China stands ready to work with all parties to continue deepening the BRICS strategic partnership, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.
Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked to comment on a report that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro Moros had said recently that the old colonial world with wars, interventions, genocide and a superiority complex is being replaced by a new world with BRICS.
Mao said that as an important platform for cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries, BRICS is committed to upholding multilateralism, actively participating in global economic governance, and promoting the development of the international order in a more just and rational direction.
"In the face of the numerous risks and challenges in the world today, the common will of developing countries to seek solidarity and progress, oppose external interference, and achieve unity and self-reliance is increasing day by day," she said, noting that it is for this reason that BRICS has gained wide recognition among emerging markets and developing countries, and has become a positive and stable force for good in international affairs.
BRICS cooperation advocates openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation in order to achieve common development and universal prosperity, she stressed.
"China is ready to work with all parties to continue to deepen the BRICS strategic partnership, actively expand practical cooperation in various fields, help make the global governance framework more balanced and effective, and make more BRICS contributions to world peace and development," Mao added.
Article: Expecting BRICS countries to play a greater role in the international arena (International Forum)
Date: 2024-02-27
Publisher: RenMin RiBao
Link: https://news.cctv.com/2024/02/27/ARTIKoeBVzwb6PH3LFclNCPJ240227.shtml
Description:
The expansion of BRICS membership from five to ten countries reflects the growing unity and strength among emerging market and developing nations. This expansion amplifies the voice of these countries on the global stage and injects new momentum into global governance. BRICS countries are crucial drivers of global economic recovery and regional cooperation. The international community expects BRICS to deepen cooperation, particularly in science, technology, and innovation. BRICS upholds principles of multilateralism, peace, and cooperation, enhancing its global attractiveness. The expansion promotes inclusive South-South cooperation and aligns with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. China has played a significant role in developing the BRICS mechanism. Looking ahead, BRICS is expected to play a greater role in shaping a more just and rational international order.
Article: Russian president is presented with project to promote technological solutions with TV BRICS support
Date: 2024-02-27
Publisher: China Daily
Link: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202402/27/WS65dd39b2a31082fc043b93be.html
Description:
Andrey Shket, Director of the Foundation "Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology Endowment," expressed readiness to leverage TV BRICS' extensive media network to support international cooperation as part of the National Technological Initiative (NTI). Speaking at the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI) Forum, Shket proposed establishing centers for advanced competence development based on Russian technologies abroad. These centers would attract young talent and technology teams, providing exposure to Russian achievements and business culture. Shket highlighted the importance of learning from other organizations' experiences, including the Agency for Strategic Initiatives and the Agency for the Development of Professions and Skills. He also sought President Putin's support to scale the project within the EAEU and BRICS Plus countries. The ASI Forum aims to support socially significant initiatives and projects, contributing to the country's development strategy.
Article: BRICS is regional integration coordinator: Lavrov
Date: 2024-03-13
Publisher: XinhuaNet, Editor: huaxia
Link: https://english.news.cn/20240313/ff7a9e4f654b466eb189b31082f033e8/c.html
Description:
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized the role of BRICS in facilitating integration processes at both regional and global levels during a meeting at a Moscow-based think tank. Lavrov highlighted BRICS' potential as a coordinator of integration efforts and stressed its significance in forming fair mechanisms for international relations regulation. BRICS, initially comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded its membership to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Ethiopia, doubling its members to ten. Currently, Russia holds the rotating chair of BRICS for the year 2024.
Article: China's Jiangsu reports record foreign trade with BRICS members in Jan-Feb
Date: 2024-03-26
Publisher: XinhuaNet, Editor: huaxia
Link: https://english.news.cn/20240326/e032683aebc6473b9080ecb05e443726/c.html
Description:
Jiangsu Province, a key economic player in eastern China, experienced a significant surge in foreign trade with BRICS nations, reaching a record high of 102.22 billion yuan in the first two months of 2024, marking a 36 percent increase compared to the previous year. Trade between Jiangsu and India as well as Jiangsu and Brazil stood out, with respective year-on-year growth rates of 12.1 percent and 36.4 percent. This substantial growth is attributed to Jiangsu's strong private sector. Additionally, Jiangsu made strides in exporting tech-intensive green products such as new energy vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and photovoltaic products, which are in demand in BRICS emerging markets. As of January 1, 2024, BRICS expanded its membership to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Ethiopia, doubling its member count from five to ten.
Article: Shanghai's import and export value to BRICS countries grows by more than 30% in the first two months
Date: 2024-03-27
Publisher: https://www.xinmin.cn
Link：http://sh.people.com.cn/n2/2024/0327/c134768-40789831.html
Description:
Economic and trade exchanges between Shanghai and BRICS countries are flourishing, with Shanghai Customs reporting a 31.8% increase in imports and exports totaling 74.07 billion yuan in the first two months of this year. Yangshan Customs, under Shanghai Customs, oversaw a significant rise in imported minerals from BRICS countries, with a value of 6.717 million US dollars, marking a substantial year-on-year increase. To facilitate customs clearance of mineral imports, Yangshan Customs established a liaison mechanism with enterprises and provided guidance on streamlined procedures, significantly reducing costs for businesses.
One example is Sichuan Mingda Group Industry Co., Ltd, which benefited from these facilitation measures, expediting the customs process for their imported copper concentrate. Similarly, Shanghai JA, a photovoltaic product manufacturer, has seen increased exports to BRICS countries, with Fengxian Customs providing support to reduce costs and enhance efficiency for enterprises. Measures include granting general taxpayer qualifications, optimizing export certificate processes, and implementing tailored logistics solutions. The result is a boost in confidence for businesses like Shanghai JA, which has experienced continued growth in exports to BRICS countries.
The digest was prepared by the BRICS & SCO Innovative Diplomacy Center. Author: Ranna Wukaixi