On September 17, 2020, the 10th meeting of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) National Security Advisors (NSAs) was hosted by Russia, the current chair of BRICS, where India was represented by Ajit Doval, Adviser to the Prime Minister (PM) of India on National Security. The focus of the meet was to exchange views on combating terrorism and extremism.
- Notably, a draft anti-terrorist strategy of the BRICS nations has been prepared, which will be submitted for approval during the upcoming summit.
Key Points:
-During the meet an agreement was reached on further expanding the dialogue on security issues, organized crime, drug trafficking and providing for closer coordination among law enforcement agencies of the member nations.
-It was proposed to create new mechanisms of interaction in the field of countering epidemiological threats and to conduct expert consultations on biosafety in the BRICS format.
-The sides also expressed concern about the escalation of tensions around Iran, Venezuela and Syria.
–The five countries agreed to work on deepening coordination at key international organisations and forums, especially the UN.
Points to be noted:
-BRICS represent over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world population, and they have a combined GDP of $16.6 trillion.
-This is the fourth time in September 2020 that top Indian and Chinese leaders have been part of multilateral meetings hosted by Russia, following a virtual meeting of Brics’ foreign ministers, and meetings of the defence and foreign ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Moscow, Russia.
–India, Russia and China are members of BRICS, SCO and RIC and act as platform for mutual trust building and cooperation. Russia is chair of 2020 BRICS and SCO.
Recent Related News:
- The Deputy Commissioner of Mumbai Customs and a 2011 batch Indian Revenue Service Officer, Mr. Sahil Seth, has been appointed as an honorary adviser to the steering committee for the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) young leaders for the period 2020 to 2023.
- In order to provide a financial aid to Indian economy which is facing human, social and economic losses due to COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown, the New Development Bank of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries has fully disbursed USD one billion emergency assistance loan to India.
About BRICS:
Presidency– Russia (India will assume the Presidency of BRICS in 2021)
Members– Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa
Establishment– 2009
Theme for 2020– “BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth”.
