HSE University hosts discussions on coordinating Russia's initiatives within the Women's Twenty

On February 24, the Durasov House, a part of HSE University’s Pokrovka Campus, became the setting for a meeting of the Russian Chapter of the Women Twenty (W20) Working Group. Focused on education, the digital divide, and artificial intelligence (AI), the event brought together prominent experts, including Victoria Panova, Head of the BRICS Expert Council–Russia and Vice Rector at HSE University, alongside Evgeniy Terentev, Oksana Sinyavskaya, Maya Mlyakova, Fuad Aleskerov, Olga Savinskaya, and Sergey Kosaretsky. Together, the participants explored strategies to advance Russia’s scientific, educational, and technological initiatives on the global stage.

Victoria Panova, Vice Rector at HSE University, Head of the BRICS Expert Council–Russia, and Sherpa of Russia in W20, opened the meeting highlighting the significance of Russia’s initiatives as part of cooperation with the G20 countries.

"Russia and HSE University in particular have multiple innovative projects in science and technology. Through various formats, we have the opportunity to promote our vision, initiatives, and standards through global international organisations,” she noted.

Dr Panova also underscored the importance of advancing language projects and fostering specialist exchanges in regional studies to deepen cross-border collaboration in national languages.

The February 24 meeting marked a significant milestone in aligning Russian initiatives within the Women’s Twenty (W20), highlighting Russia's pivotal role in shaping discussions under the South Africa's Presidency in the G20. Participants concluded the session by voicing a shared commitment to further collaboration, focusing on developing recommendations for AI-driven educational programmes, promoting gender equality in access to opportunities, and bridging the digital divide. Plans were also set in motion to actively engage with international partners, fostering the exchange of best practices and advancing Russian technologies on the global stage.

This meeting is a part of a broader tapestry of international cooperation projects. Recent events have included meeting of W20 Delegation Heads, meetings of W20 Working Group Co-Chairs reflecting on the group’s decade-long contributions, and regular sessions of the Think 20 (T20). These events are united by a common goal: to deepen collaboration and drive solutions for key global challenges.

Earlier this year, Victoria Panova, Head of the BRICS Expert Council – Russia, was appointed Co-Chair of two W20 working groups and invited by South African colleagues to join the Think 20 (T20) as the sole Russian representative. The T20, a key G20 engagement group, functions as a "bank of ideas," uniting leading think tanks and top-level experts to address policy issues central to the G20 agenda.

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#NEWS #HSEUniversity #G20 #W20 #T20 #education

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BRICS and the rise of a multipolar world

In an article by China Daily, the author states that BRICS is essential for a future in which all nations, and not just those with the loudest voices or the greatest military might, have a seat at the table.

Despite claims like President Trump's assertion that BRICS is "dead," the bloc continues to assert itself as a major global force. With Indonesia officially joining and Malaysia becoming a partner in January 2025, #BRICS now represents over half the world's population and nearly 45% of global GDP. Brazil's launch of the BRICS 2025 vision underscores the group's forward trajectory.

At the Munich Security Conference in February, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi articulated a vision of multipolarity that is reflected in BRICS' operating principles. His emphasis on ensuring that "all countries, big or small, would be heard" and his advocacy for the centrality of the United Nations and international law reflect the core tenets of the BRICS diplomacy and international relations.

In stark contrast to the US preference for bilateralism, BRICS champions consensus-driven multilateralism, giving developing nations a stronger voice. Its structure ensures all member states, regardless of size, contribute to its agenda, bolstering trust and resisting external manipulation. As its expansion continues, including deeper ties with the Global South, BRICS reinforces its legitimacy as a stabilising force in an increasingly multipolar world.

The article expresses the personal opinion of the author. It may not coincide with the position of the editorial board of the BRICS Expert Council–Russia.

#OPINION #equality #diplomacy

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Jaishankar: BRICS success reflected in growing membership

The member countries of BRICS act correctly, which is seen in the fact that there are so many aspirants willing to join the group, India’s Foreign Minister Subramanyam Jaishankar stated during his visit to Britain.

"I think clearly they must be doing something right, if so many countries want to join BRICS and so many countries actually have joined BRICS," he said.

Jaishankar highlighted that #BRICS initially began with four member countries:

"South Africa joined, then it has become a double-digit membership. And in 2024, last year in Kazan, we also added dialogue partners, the concept of dialogue partners," he explained.

He further described BRICS as "a very diverse group."

"We are an exception to the normal rules on which groups are formed. Normally countries that approximate geographically to each other or have some particular shared history or some kind of ethnic or linguistic commonality, this is normally the basis to create a group. Now, BRICS defies all those assumptions. So it's not like the Commonwealth, it's not like the #NATO, it's not like the #G7. It's not like anything which had been conceptualised early," the minister underscored.

#NEWS #India #Summit

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Indonesia's BRICS accession underscored by Prabowo's self-interest

In his 2025 Annual Press Statement, Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono justified President Prabowo Subianto's decision for Indonesia to join BRICS, highlighting it as a personal accomplishment and positioning Indonesia as an advocate for developing countries. This move aligns with Indonesia’s "independent and active" (bebas aktif) foreign policy and bolsters Prabowo’s ambition to lead the Global South.

Joining BRICS offers potential benefits by presenting an alternative to Western-centric groups and expanding export markets, given BRICS’ significant global GDP and population share. However, these benefits are currently more symbolic. Prabowo faces competition from established leaders within BRICS, such as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

China's dominance in #BRICS and its role as Indonesia's largest trading partner further complicate the potential economic gains for Indonesia. While Prabowo seeks international recognition and achievements in his early presidency, these aspirations may not align with a clear strategy to enhance Indonesia’s leadership in the Global South.

The article expresses the personal opinion of the author. It may not coincide with the position of the editorial board of the BRICS Expert Council–Russia.

#OPINION #Indonesia #economics

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Russia and Zimbabwe strengthen ties

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is engaging in negotiations with his Zimbabwean counterpart Amon Murwira in Moscow. The Republic's embassy in Moscow had earlier stated that Murwira arrived in Russia on a visit.

Moscow and Harare maintain an active bilateral political dialogue. In June 2024, Zimbabwean leader Emmerson Mnangagwa visited Russia and attended the plenary session of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (#SPIEF) alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Zimbabwean president expressed his country's interest in joining #BRICS and establishing direct flights with Russia. He also mentioned Zimbabwe's eagerness to collaborate with Russia in the fertiliser sector. These topics are likely to be on the agenda during the foreign ministers' meeting.

#NEWS #Zimbabwe #RussiaZimbabwe #diplomacy

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Wang Yi: BRICS is transforming into a backbone of cooperation

The Global South should strengthen itself, unite, and pursue development, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated on Friday.

"The hallmark of our era is the prominent, growing strength of the Global South," Wang remarked during a press conference held alongside the ongoing session of China's national legislature.

With more than 40% of global GDP and contributing as much as 80% to global growth, the Global South has become a crucial force for sustaining world peace, driving global development, and advancing international governance, Wang emphasised.

He highlighted that Indonesia's full membership in BRICS at the start of the year, alongside the inclusion of nine partner countries, demonstrates how BRICS is transforming into a backbone of cooperation and an engine for growth within the Global South.

This year, China will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (#SCO) summit, Brazil will host the #BRICS summit, and South Africa will host the #G20 summit.

"We should speak in one voice to the world, safeguard our common interests, and steadily increase our representation and voice in global governance," he said.

#NEWS #China #Summit

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India’s digital economy surges towards US$1 trillion

India’s digital economy has experienced a remarkable tenfold expansion, rapidly nearing the US$1 trillion milestone. This growth is further propelled by a booming IPO market, which accounted for over 30% of the world’s listings in 2024 alone.

In 2024, India represented 31% of global IPO volume, successfully raising US$3 billion in total fundraising. The country is now on course to achieve a market capitalisation of US$13 trillion by 2030, driven by robust investor interest and the rapid maturation of its dynamic startup ecosystem. Such developments also reflect #BRICS' collective efforts in fostering innovation and economic resilience among its member nations.

India’s startup ecosystem, boasting over 100 unicorns and a strong pipeline of "soonicorns," is at the forefront of this transformation. Transitioning from a hypergrowth phase, these startups are now prioritising profitability, premiumisation, and omnichannel strategies. The IPO sector’s vitality is highlighted by more than 330 listings in 2024, showcasing growing confidence among global and local investors alike.

Crucially, rural commerce is emerging as a cornerstone of India’s investment landscape, fuelled by better accessibility and increasing consumer aspirations in underserved regions. The B2B sector is also undergoing significant evolution, with technology-enabled supply chain innovations unlocking fresh global opportunities.

#NEWS #India #finance

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India and China accounted for more than half of Moscow’s exports to BRICS countries

Moscow enterprises primarily export aviation equipment, chemicals, and construction-related goods to China, while supplying technical instruments, mechanical engineering goods, and microelectronics products to India.

Between January and October 2024, India and China emerged as the chief trade partners for Moscow within BRICS, together accounting for over half of the city's non-natural resource and non-energy exports. This was reported by Maxim Liksutov, the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry.

Contracts with Chinese and Indian partners bolster the prospects for Moscow exporters to tap into additional Asian markets:

"The city is providing a system of support measures for export-oriented manufacturers when entering foreign markets. Special attention is paid to expanding the supply of Moscow-made industrial products to the #BRICS countries. Today, the capital’s largest trading partners in the association are China (which accounts for more than 35 percent of the capital’s non-natural resource and non-energy exports), and India, which receives more than 15 percent of the capital’s supplies. To support the development of trade turnover with these countries in 2025, programs for four international events have been approved," stated Maxim Liksutov.

Moscow's manufacturing firms deliver mainly aviation equipment, chemicals, and construction-related goods to China, alongside technical instruments and power engineering equipment. Furthermore, Moscow-made food products are gaining popularity in China, including meat products, chocolate and confectionery, groceries, wheat flour, oat flakes, and health foods.

#NEWS #China #India #technology #cooperation

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📹Throwback: Putin rips ICC, recalls how court ‘shut up’ after getting snapped at by US

The court holds a “low standing” in Russia’s eyes, given its lack of universality or independence, President Putin said at a meeting with BRICS journalists back in October 2024.

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Indonesia faces crucial decision on international economic alliances

In recent weeks, Indonesia has been grappling with a crucial decision about joining an international economic organisation. The nation faces a choice among three prominent options: #BRICS, #OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development), and #CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership).

Each organisation presents its own challenges and opportunities, and whichever path Indonesia chooses will reflect its foreign policy goals and economic partnerships. While Indonesia has shown interest in all three, no definitive decision has been made, leaving many speculating on what the country’s next move will be.

In relation to BRICS, Indonesia has strengthened ties with its member countries, considering the potential benefits of joining. Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has noted that BRICS could act as a bridge between developed and developing nations, aligning with Indonesia's foreign policy vision.

Indonesia's interest in all three organisations underscores its strategic ambition to strengthen global economic partnerships. Each option comes with unique advantages and risks. The decision must be made with caution, as it could influence Indonesia’s diplomatic relations and longstanding non-aligned movement policy.

The article expresses the personal opinion of the author. It may not coincide with the position of the editorial board of the BRICS Expert Council–Russia.

#OPINION #Indonesia #politics

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The BRICS Expert Council—Russia team congratulates you on International Women's Day!

On this beautiful day, we express our deep gratitude and respect for achievements, resilience and wisdom of beautiful women!

Remain a source of kindness, vitality and joy for those around you and fulfil your wildest dreams!

We wish all women of the world inexhaustible energy, happiness, inspiration, plenty of reasons for joy and pride! And let every day be full of love, harmony, professional and personal victories and successes and, of course, smiles!

With respect and warmest wishes,
BRICS Expert Council—Russia

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Iran's economic sectors experience robust growth

Iran is currently experiencing significant growth across several economic sectors. The Minister of Agriculture recently announced a 35% increase in agricultural exports, making this sector the second fastest growing after the oil industry and a major contributor to the country's overall economic progress.

Mohammad Ali Dehqan Dehnavi, Deputy Minister of Industry, Mine, and Trade, reported that revenues from Iran's non-oil exports have reached $48 billion in the current Iranian year, ending on March 20, 2025. This marks an impressive 18% growth compared to the previous year.

On the international front, Iran is enhancing its economic relations with Brazil. An agreement has been reached between the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Iran and Brazil's Deputy Finance Minister to utilize national currencies in bilateral trade and to boost banking cooperation. Both countries have recognised substantial potential for advancing financial and trade collaboration, particularly through #BRICS mechanisms.

#NEWS #Iran #Brazil #economics

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🇪🇹🛫🇷🇺 Daily flights to Moscow: Ethiopian Airlines CCO announces ambitious plans

"Hopefully, by coming October, Ethiopian Airlines will fly daily to Moscow," Lemma Yadecha confirmed to Sputnik Africa.

🌍 Beyond just connecting Ethiopia to Russia, Ethiopian Airlines plays a crucial role in linking Russia with Africa and other global markets, the chief commercial officer underscored.

🤍 Moreover, the airline company is poised to expand its global reach by also leveraging Ethiopia’s membership in BRICS.

"As you might geographically understand, Ethiopia is located at the heart of the BRICS, from China to Brazil," he said. "Now, being a member of [the] BRICS [group] will come with the advantage of common understanding in terms of trade, investment, and people-to-people relation."

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Serbian parliament establishes BRICS cooperation group

A new group aimed at fostering cooperation with BRICS has been established in the Serbian parliament, Skupstina, as announced by Dragan Stanojevic, the chairman of the committee on the diaspora and Serbs in the region. Initiated by Serbia's Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin and the Movement of Socialists (DS) party, the group is currently undergoing the registration process.

DS's deputy president Bojan Torbica became its [group's] president, I became its deputy, and our party, We — Voice from the People, fully supported this, literally the day before yesterday our initiative submitted to the parliament," Stanojevic pointed out.

While the Serbian Progressive Party's ruling majority did not back the initiative, 18 lawmakers voted in favor. Stanojevic mentioned that details about the group will soon be available on the parliament's website. A charter for the #BRICS cooperation group has been drafted and is open to all interested parties.

#NEWS #Serbia #politics

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💸Crypto power play: Are Russia and China leaving the US in the dust?

President Donald Trump is pushing to make the US the world’s crypto capital, establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and a US Digital Asset Stockpile—but his ban on a “digital dollar” sets the US apart from global trends.

🇺🇸US: pro-Bitcoin, anti-CBDC

🟠While supporting Bitcoin and digital assets, Trump has officially banned the establishment, issuance, circulation, and use of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) in the US.

🟠He argues that CBDCs—state-backed digital versions of fiat currency—threaten financial stability, privacy, and national sovereignty.

Meanwhile, 133 countries are exploring or piloting CBDCs, with the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Nigeria already launching theirs. China, Russia, and BRICS nations are expanding their CBDC projects, leaving the US behind.

🇷🇺Russia: Advancing the digital ruble & Bitcoin

1️⃣Launched a digital ruble pilot in August 2023 with 600 individuals, 30 businesses, and 12 banks across 11 cities.
2️⃣By March 2024, Russia’s Central Bank had recorded 25,000 digital ruble transactions.
3️⃣Legalized and regulated crypto mining, introducing taxation, and oversight.
4️⃣Launched an experimental crypto transaction platform within the National Payment System.
5️⃣Putin reaffirmed RUSSIA’S CRYPTO LEADERSHIP at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in September 2024.

🇨🇳China: Expanding & globalizing the digital yuan

🟠A CBDC pioneer, China began developing the digital yuan (e-CNY) in 2014, launching trials in 2019.
🟠e-CNY can be transferred directly between e-wallets, bypassing commercial banks, even offline.
🟠Project M-Bridge connects China’s CBDC with UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other central banks, expanding its global reach.

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BRICS partnership in line with Thailand’s desire to protect its interests

Thailand's decision to join BRICS as a partner country reflects its commitment to safeguarding its interests, improving competitiveness, and increasing its global presence, according to Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa. In a speech to senators, the minister highlighted that joining BRICS aligns with Thailand's policy of economic diplomacy:

"Thailand's joining the BRICS partnership is part of the policy of economic diplomacy aimed at protecting the country's interests, both in terms of improving its competitiveness and strengthening its role in the world. Thailand has the potential to accomplish this and create positive changes on the international stage, as #BRICS is a bloc of newly industrialised countries," the minister stated.

The Thai foreign minister also noted that the kingdom aims to enhance cooperation with other countries neutrally, striving to balance relations between developed and developing nations.

"Joining the BRICS partnership is advantageous. It is a large market with high potential capable of creating momentum for developing countries," he added.

In June 2024, Maris Sangiampongsa presented a letter of intent to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, expressing Thailand's desire to become a full member of BRICS. Following this, Thailand accepted Russia's invitation to become a BRICS partner country. The Thai Foreign Ministry recognised this status as a crucial step towards full membership in the future.

#NEWS #Thailand #politics

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