BRICS SUMMIT UPDATE BY JESSIE TAYLOR
Partnering for economic growth in developing nations
L
eaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa met virtually for the 14th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, to strengthen international ties and discuss development plans following the global pandemic. The BRICS countries are central to future global economic development, with rising economies and growing influence. The partnership aims to aid in economic growth, through trade partnerships and knowledge sharing. The five members make up more than 40% of the world’s population, 30% of the territory, and around a quarter of the global economy. The Summit was held virtually by Chinese
President, Xi Jinping, on Thursday 23 June 2022, with the view of discussing issues such as global politics, economies, and food security, among others.
the global community on the sustainable development agenda, the BRICS group can support a sustained and equitable global recovery,” he said.
STRENGTHENING ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL TIES President Cyril Ramaphosa said the summit offered a platform to further strengthen ties for South Africa’s growth and job creation, as well as the opportunity to discuss how all countries could fast track their recovery from the pandemic.
A key topic under discussion was food security, especially against the backdrop of a global food crisis and conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Russia is a key importer of agricultural products and strengthening agreements on the import of food products with China, Brazil, India and South Africa, could support economic growth in member countries.
“Through the reform of the multilateral system, including the United Nations, and by refocusing the attention and resources of
42 | Public Sector Leaders | July 2022
South Africa already supplies a number of agricultural exports to BRICS partners, but the Summit
