📖 Word of the Week: BRICS Competition Law and Policy Centre

Established in 2019 at HSE University, the BRICS Competition Law and Policy Centre is supported by the Russian Government and the antitrust authorities across the BRICS nations.

⭐ The Centre's key mission is to craft competition policy approaches that resonate with the interests of the BRICS nations, fostering a fair global economic framework while promoting the growth of national economies.

📊 Key lines of the Centre's work include:
⚪Gathering and analysing data from the antitrust authorities within the BRICS nations
⚪Developing recommendations and best practices for competition policy
⚪Conducting research on regulating the digital economy and global food chains
⚪Organising international conferences and fostering scientific cooperation with leading universities
⚪Forming expert councils composed of esteemed scientists and practitioners

🔥 Among the Centre's notable projects are:
✔A pilot Working Group on Global Food Chains, which has informed new approaches to coordinating transactions in emerging markets
✔ A study on the digital economy, which provided insights that informed the development of Russia's Fifth Antimonopoly Package and similar reforms in India and China

Today, the Centre is actively shaping the international agenda surrounding antitrust regulation and enhancing cooperation among the #BRICS nations, positioning itself as a catalyst for scientific and practical cooperation.

#wordoftheweek

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Lavrov sees demand for Intervision song contest in BRICS and globally

Initiatives such as the Intervision international music contest are in demand in BRICS and across the globe, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said as he watched the show sitting in the audience.

Russia’s top diplomat praised the holding of the competition as a great idea:

"Originally, we wanted BRICS and their partners to take part, because #BRICS hold numerous cultural and humanitarian events and annual theater festivals, and there is a drama school competition, and the idea to establish a literature award, and a number of other issues that are in demand in BRICS, and, I am confident, globally. So, when we announced the contest to our partners and most of them gave a positive response almost immediately, and the news spread across the globe, countries distant from BRICS in geographical and organisational terms decided to send in their performers," he explained.

The Intervision international music contest has come to an end in Moscow, with Vietnam's representative Dyk Fuk emerging victorious. The event was memorable for a number of high-profile incidents, from Russian participant Shaman's voluntary withdrawal from the competition to the scandal involving pressure on the United States, and the announcement of the next show, which will be held in Saudi Arabia in 2026.

#NEWS #culture

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In touch with BRICS: news digest

Stay ahead with the most impactful BRICS stories of the day

⚪BRICS International School: New Generation held for the first time in Artek

⚪List of BRICS common values unveiled at the II BRICS Forum Traditional Values

⚪Brasilia hosts BRICS Young Scientist Forum

⚪BRICS creates an association of writers and publishers

⚪Pakistan сould join BRICS in 2026

⚪Tajikistan signals readiness for digital and industrial cooperation with BRICS

⚪BRICS nations forge partnership in preventive medicine

⚪Robotics and artificial intelligence take centre stage at BRICS Urban Future Forum

⚪Turkey pays close attention to cooperation with BRICS and ASEAN

⚪South Africa hosted the BRICS International Competition Conference

⚪China pushes for stronger #BRICS cooperation in AI and clean energy

⚪The Intervision international music contest has come to an end in Moscow

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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Russian Minister of Internal Affairs calls for strengthening BRICS efforts in the fight against cybercrime

Vladimir Kolokoltsev, Russian Minister of Internal Affairs, advocated for consolidating the efforts of the BRICS countries in the fight against cybercrime, illegal migration, and drug trafficking.

"We see great potential in the #BRICS platform. Two working groups are operating, and they have proven quite effective. One is on countering illegal drug trafficking, and the other is on counterterrorism. Other areas include countering drug trafficking, countering illegal migration, and countering cybercrime," he said following the Conference of Global Public Security Cooperation Forum that took place in China.

#NEWS #security

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Congratulations on the National Day of Saudi Arabia

The BRICS Expert Council-Russia extends heartfelt congratulations to the people of Saudi Arabia on this National Day—a significant event that, in 1932, heralded the dawn of a new era in your nation’s journey toward sustainable prosperity and progress.

Since then, Saudi Arabia has firmly established itself on the global stage as a vital political, economic, and cultural hub, making remarkable contributions to the enhancement of international cooperation. Your country holds a unique position within BRICS, actively promoting the creation of a fair and multipolar world order.

We wish the people of Saudi Arabia continued success, peace, and prosperity. We are confident that our partnership and collaborative initiatives will continue to deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation among the #BRICS nations, fostering prosperity and stability for all.

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BRICS+ Youth Festival in Kazan unites young people from 13 countries

The first BRICS+ Youth Festival has started in the capital of Tatarstan. The event brought together 150 participants from Russia, Brazil, China, Turkey, Iran, India, Egypt, South Africa, Ethiopia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Indonesia.

"We are truly delighted to welcome all our guests to Kazan. Exactly one year ago, the leaders of the #BRICS nations gathered in our city. This marks a new chapter in a new, fairer world—and the most important role in it is yours. The future belongs to you. At the municipal level, we have committed to maintaining these relationships. A key goal is to build connections among the younger generations," said Ilsur Metshin, Mayor of Kazan, who spearheaded the festival.

From September 20 to 28, participants will enjoy a diverse programme featuring educational, creative, and political events. On September 23 and 24, the BRICS+ Olympiad in Mathematics and Computer Science will be held for schoolchildren from partner cities and countries.

The cultural schedule includes BRICSvision, an international song contest, as well as a national costume show, numerous workshops, and a board game festival.

#NEWS #youth

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Russia launches first BRICS-wide Special Economic Zones Digital Map

Russia has announced record growth in its special economic zones (SEZs), highlighting their role as powerful drivers of international investment and industrial cooperation. The information was presented by Nikita Kondratiev, Director of the Department for Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects at the Russian Ministry of Economic Development, during the III International Forum of Special Economic Zones–2025.

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the BRICS SEZ Digital Map—a unified investment navigator developed by the Association of Clusters, Technology Parks, and SEZ of Russia. The platform provides comprehensive information on SEZs across the BRICS nations, including available benefits and preferential regimes, according to the official website of the Russian Ministry of Economic Development.

Kondratiev noted that the platform will soon be expanded to include detailed data on products manufactured within these zones, which will open new distribution channels, simplify the search for components and equipment, and facilitate deeper cooperation among the BRICS economies.

"The platform contains information on the specialisation, preferences, residents, and contact details of the special economic zones of the #BRICS countries," stated Nikita Kondratiev.

The creation of a BRICS-wide digital investment infrastructure was described as a turning point in strengthening economic ties and expanding opportunities for global cooperation.

#NEWS #economics

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Kazan proposes establishing a community of schools and students from BRICS+ nations

Irek Rizvanov, Head of the Kazan Education Department, put forward a proposal to create sister-school partnerships between cities in the BRICS+ countries. He announced the initiative while summarising the outcomes of a meeting of the Youth Policy Committee of the BRICS+ Association of Cities and Municipalities.

Rizvanov also advocated for organising internships and teacher exchanges, as well as supporting joint student projects, to help young people feel part of an international community from an early age.

"Our city understands the value of trust and cooperation: diverse cultures and peoples have coexisted here for centuries, teaching us to find common ground and appreciate diversity. We all recognise that strong international partnerships begin in childhood—right at school. Today’s schoolchildren will shape tomorrow’s world, and it is essential that we help them grow in an environment of mutual respect and friendship today," Rizvanov stated.

#NEWS #education

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Russia presented IP guide for entrepreneurs in BRICS countries

Russia has unveiled the results of its project "Guidelines on IP System in BRICS Countries for Entrepreneurs " during the 17th Meeting of Heads of Intellectual Property Offices. The event brought together leaders of relevant agencies from Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa, and the UAE.

"Rospatent has conducted substantial work analysing materials provided by various countries and consolidating them into a single, user-friendly brochure for entrepreneurs and rights holders. The guide now offers detailed coverage of intellectual property systems in Russia, Brazil, India, China, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates. This will undoubtedly help innovative businesses navigate IP protection in the #BRICS countries, make these markets more transparent to investors, and foster business cooperation," stated Rospatent Head Yury Zubov.

The publication contains practical information on procedures, timelines, fees, regulations, and relevant offices. This resource will enable entrepreneurs from the BRICS nations to better understand IP frameworks and facilitate entry to new BRICS markets. The guide will be available in English on the joint website of BRICS Intellectual Property Offices.

#NEWS

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BRICS nations launch international volunteer programme for children in need

At the II BRICS Forum Traditional Values in Brasília, the Volunteers of Peace platform presented a new international programme, titled "Helping Children in Crisis Situations 2026." This initiative unites specialists and volunteers from Russia, Brazil, India, and Ethiopia to develop and implement effective methods for aiding children with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

“Our mission goes beyond providing aid—it’s about restoring hope through support, creativity, and human compassion,” said Lyubov Zueva, Director of the Elizaveta Foundation and project supervisor on behalf of Russia.

Zueva also highlighted that the project pools professional experience and expertise to assist the most vulnerable groups. She expressed readiness for open dialogue and sharing best practices with colleagues from the BRICS countries, adding that cooperation with #BRICS will enable a faster response to the needs of children in crisis and help build more effective support systems.

#NEWS

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Meeting of BRICS Heads of Customs Administrations took place in Brazil

From September 18 to 21, a delegation from the Russian Federal Customs Service (FCS), headed by Deputy Head Vladimir Ivin, visited Brazil on a working trip. The key goal of this visit was to participate in a meeting of BRICS Heads of Customs Administrations and to exchange expertise with their Brazilian counterparts.

Members of the Russian delegation took part in expert meetings of #BRICS customs officials, where they discussed key topics including the mutual recognition of AEO programmes, cooperation in law enforcement, digitalisation and smart integration of customs work, and institutional development of customs services.

#NEWS

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Lavrov: BRICS nations account for 40% of global GDP

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov drew attention to the significant share of BRICS countries in global GDP, which has reached 40%, at the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

"Even prior to its expansion, the BRICS share in global GDP, measured by purchasing power parity at 40%, had already surpassed that of the G7, which stood at 29%," the minister stated at a meeting taking place on the sidelines of the High-level Week of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly.

Lavrov recalled that the #BRICS Summit in Kazan last October produced concrete proposals for creating a new payment infrastructure and developing independent stock exchange and investment mechanisms, with work also underway on the establishment of an #SCO development bank.

In his assessment, "the steadily growing role and importance of multilateral governance structures like BRICS and the SCO clearly signals the onset of a multipolar world as they represent a model of diplomacy among equals."

#NEWS #summit #economy

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Russia and the UAE signed a memorandum of understanding and technical cooperation in tax administration

Daniil Egorov, the Commissioner of the Federal Tax Service (FTS) of Russia, and Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director General of the UAE's Federal Tax Authority, signed a memorandum of understanding and technical cooperation on the sidelines of a meeting in Manaus which brought together heads and experts of BRICS Tax Administrations.

The parties have identified the following priority areas for cooperation:
⚪Exchanging experience in the digital transformation of tax administration
⚪Developing training programmes
⚪Coordinating work internationally and contributing to the organisation of seminars, sessions, working groups, and working visits related to tax administration

The event also featured presentations on the outcomes of the working groups’ activities. Plans include developing a marketplace for digital solutions (BRICS Tax Collaboration Tool), as well as training courses for employees who directly engage with taxpayers and mid-level managers. According to the Russian FTS, a collection of HR practices and solutions used by BRICS tax authorities will be made publicly available.

The Heads of the #BRICS Tax Administrations also discussed establishing the BRICS Tax Support Network. In addition, the Russian FTS presented a prototype of BRICS Tax Knowledge Hub, an interactive library on taxation across the BRICS countries.

#NEWS #technology

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Palestine submitted application for BRICS membership

Palestine submitted an application for full membership in #BRICS but has not yet received a response. The country intends to continue participating as a guest for the time being, stated Abdel Hafiz Nofal, Palestinian Ambassador to Russia.

"We have submitted an application, but as you know, Palestine has certain conditions. I believe that Palestine will participate in the group as a guest until the conditions allow it to become a full member. We have not yet received a response,” the ambassador remarked in reply to a related question.

#NEWS #Palestine

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Rosatom CEO: BRICS nuclear platform has bright future

The BRICS nuclear platform has a bright future ahead, Chief Executive Officer of Rosatom Alexey Likhachev said at a plenary session during the World Atomic Week in Moscow.

"BRICS is the heart of the emerging multipolar global system. The BRICS nuclear platform has been operational since last year. The BRICS nuclear platform has a bright future," he said.

The heads of the largest specialised companies and organisations from BRICS+ member countries, including Russia, Bolivia, Brazil, Iran, China, Ethiopia, and South Africa, held their first meeting within the framework of the #BRICS nuclear platform created in 2024.

According to Likhachev, the platform's primary objective is to develop and implement best practices and advanced approaches for peaceful energy and non-energy applications of nuclear technologies across BRICS and BRICS+ markets. It also aims to create incentive mechanisms and project implementation models for the nuclear industries of member countries. He emphasised that this partnership would grow alongside the expansion of BRICS itself.

#NEWS #energy #forum

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Lavrov noted the importance of initiatives launched during the Russia and Brazil's Chairship in BRICS

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, at a meeting of BRICS foreign ministers, convened on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly High-level Week, noted the importance of implementing initiatives launched during the Russian and Brazilian chairships.

"Sergey Lavrov underscored the significance of jointly implementing practical initiatives launched during the Russian and Brazilian chairmanships, including the establishment of a new investment platform, the BRICS cross-border payment initiative, depository and clearing infrastructure, a reinsurance mechanism, and a BRICS grain exchange," according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry.

In accordance with established practice, the meeting of #BRICS foreign ministers was organised by India as the future chair of the bloc.

#NEWS #UN #India

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Rosatom announced the first BRICS strategic document on nuclear energy

The first strategic document of the BRICS platform on nuclear energy was approved during a conference held as part of World Atomic Week.

"At the conference, attended by representatives of participating organisations and partners, interim results were summarised and plans for 2026 were defined. The first strategic document of the #BRICS platform was approved: a concept that defines key areas of work (human resource development, attracting financing for nuclear energy projects, supply chain sustainability, promoting reactor construction and nuclear fuel cycle technologies, ensuring public acceptance of nuclear energy, and others), as well as describing the vectors of the platform's organisational development," the statement said.

The BRICS Nuclear Energy Platform was created to strengthen cooperation at the corporate level aimed at promoting nuclear energy as an environmentally friendly source.

#NEWS #energy

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Congratulations on National Flag Day of the Kingdom of Thailand

The BRICS Expert Council-Russia extends warm congratulations to the people and government of the Kingdom of Thailand on this National Flag Day!

The national flag of Thailand stands as a symbol of independence, national unity, and devotion to the nation’s core values. It reflects the country’s strength and resilience, its rich historical heritage, and its steadfast commitment to progress.

Russia and Thailand share a long-standing friendship and partnership, spanning political dialogue, trade, economic ties, and humanitarian cooperation. We hold these relations in high esteem and are confident they will continue to grow stronger looking ahead.

We wish Thailand enduring peace, prosperity, and every success in pursuing sustainable development and the well-being of its people!

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📖 Word of the Week: China Council for BRICS Think Tank Cooperation

As cooperation within BRICS continues to deepen, the need for intellectual support and knowledge sharing grows more vital. It was with this purpose that the China Council for BRICS Think Tank Cooperation (CCBTC) was founded in 2017, serving as an open platform for dialogue, research, and academic exchange.

⭐ The Council brings together more than 100 Chinese institutions, whose work spans key areas of cooperation: political security, trade and economy, finance, and humanitarian exchange. Leading Chinese universities, including Peking University, Tsinghua University, Renmin University of China, and Fudan University, among others, act as co-chairs.

🖋️ The CCBTC’s primary objectives include:
✔Сonducting joint research and preparing policy recommendations for BRICS national leaders
✔Building a platform for sharing knowledge and publishing research papers and monographs on BRICS-related topics
✔Supporting academic mobility and engaging Chinese universities and research centres in collaboration with partners from other BRICS countries
✔Organising forums and meetings—including international gatherings—with participation of the expert communities from the BRICS member states

Through these efforts, the China Council for BRICS Think Tank Cooperation plays a crucial role in advancing the #BRICS core values of openness, inclusiveness, and mutually beneficial cooperation.

#wordoftheweek

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In touch with BRICS: news digest

Top highlights from the BRICS world—economy, politics, and more

➖Russian Minister of Internal Affairs calls for strengthening BRICS efforts in the fight against cybercrime

➖BRICS+ Youth Festival in Kazan unites young people from 13 countries

➖Russia launches first BRICS-wide Special Economic Zones Digital Map

➖Kazan proposes establishing a community of schools and students from BRICS+ nations

➖Russia presented IP guide for entrepreneurs in BRICS countries

➖BRICS nations launch international volunteer programme for children in need

➖Meeting of BRICS Heads of Customs Administrations took place in Brazil

➖Russian Foreign Minister noted BRICS nations account for 40% of global GDP

➖Russia and the UAE signed a memorandum of understanding and technical cooperation in tax administration

➖Palestine submitted application for BRICS membership

➖Lavrov noted the importance of initiatives launched during the Russia and Brazil's Chairship in #BRICS

➖Rosatom announced the first BRICS strategic document on nuclear energy

#BRICSExpertCouncilDIGEST

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Expert explained why multipolar world concept resonates with BRICS and SCO

The BRICS+ model most accurately reflects the concept of a multipolar world order, as both models are driven by similar underlying processes, according to Anastasia Likhacheva, Dean of the Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs at HSE University.

"The model that #BRICS+ represents aligns closely with the logic of objective global trends: demographic and economic shifts, economic growth rates, youth demographics, etc. It accurately captures dominant factors across a range of categories and indicators," Likhacheva observed.

The expert also highlighted parallels with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation:

"We see a similar pattern with the SCO—if you look at the initiatives launched at the #SCO Summit in Tianjin, they are quite similar and also emphasise a positive agenda."

#NEWS

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