By: Goshu Melisew.
In a landmark event, Ethiopian think tanks, academic institutions, and research centers joined hands with the BRICS Expert Council of Russia, marking a significant stride towards fostering collaboration between Ethiopia and the BRICS nations. Beyond strengthening ties, the gathering aimed to pave the way for new nations to join this influential bloc.
Victoria Panova, Head of the BRICS Expert Council of Russia, emphasized that BRICS is not an anti-western coalition but rather a platform for leveraging collective efforts towards global peace and stability. She highlighted BRICS' inclusive approach, aiming to work alongside Western nations rather than against them.
Panova also stressed the imperative of environmental protection and addressing climate change within the BRICS framework. Recognizing climate change as one of the most urgent global challenges, BRICS member states are committed to collective action to mitigate its effects and promote sustainable development.
Jafar Bedru, Executive Director of the Institute of Foreign Affairs, underscored the significance of Ethiopia's engagement with the BRICS Forum. He noted that such collaboration holds profound implications for Ethiopia's diplomacy, as the nation diversifies its engagements to ensure prosperity and progress.
This engagement provides Ethiopia with a platform to amplify its global voice and align its interests with those of other emerging powers.
Jafar also emphasized the importance of the BRICS Expert of Academia convening in Russia, highlighting its role in directly shaping BRICS policies and initiatives by facilitating dialogue between academic experts and heads of state. This interaction ensures that academic insights play a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness of the forum in addressing pressing global challenges.