Russian President Vladimir Putin officially inaugurated Russia's 2024 BRICS chairmanship on January 1. During the handover, President Putin emphasized the motto of the upcoming term, “Strengthening multilateralism for equitable global development and security.” This reflects Russia's commitment to promoting cooperation between the BRICS countries – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has said that the next BRICS summit under Russia's chairmanship in Kazan in 2024 will be dedicated to establishing a fair world order. Addressing a year-end press conference, Putin said the summit would influence the current situation to move in the right direction. Criticizing the West for demanding a so-called rules-based world order, he said that the so-called rules-based world order does not actually exist because the rules change every day depending on the political agenda and the interests and whims of those in power.
Positive and Constructive Cooperation
In an official statement, President Putin outlined Russia's approach to the BRICS chairmanship. Emphasis will be laid on positive and constructive cooperation with all concerned countries. The comprehensive strategy will continue to promote BRICS partnership in politics and security, economy and finance, as well as cultural and humanitarian contacts.
Russia's priorities for BRICS chairmanship
President Putin made clear Russia's priorities, which cover a range of areas. These include cooperation in science, high technology, health care, environmental protection, culture, sports, youth exchanges and civil society. Furthermore, Putin highlighted that BRICS is receiving increasing support from like-minded countries, emphasizing its principles such as sovereign equality, mutual consideration of interests, openness, consensus and aspiration for a multipolar international order.
New Category of BRICS Partner Countries
The Russian President underlined the need to work on modalities for a new range of BRICS partner countries. About 30 countries are being considered for inclusion in the BRICS multidimensional agenda in some form or the other. The move aims to facilitate the integration of new participants into various aspects of BRICS activities, building on the experience gained by the Association over the years.
Enhancing Foreign Policy Coordination
Putin stressed Russia's commitment to enhancing foreign policy coordination among BRICS member states. The focus will be on developing joint responses to challenges and threats to international and regional security and stability. Additionally, priority will be given to the practical implementation of the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership 2025 and the Plan of Action for BRICS Innovation Cooperation 2021-2024. Russia aims to contribute to energy and food security, enhance the role of BRICS in the international monetary system, expand interbank cooperation, and increase the use of national currencies in mutual trade.