The inaugural BRICS Sherpa meeting under India's 2021 Chairship recently commenced in New Delhi, marking the official start of the year-long engagement for the five-nation grouping. This crucial preparatory gathering brought together the designated Sherpas and Sous Sherpas from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to chart the course for cooperation and set the agenda for upcoming ministerial meetings and the annual Leaders' Summit.
Background: The Evolution and Significance of BRICS
BRICS stands as an influential association of major emerging economies, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Initially conceived as an economic acronym by Goldman Sachs economist Jim O'Neill in 2001 to highlight the growth potential of these economies, it evolved into a formal political and economic grouping with its first summit in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009. South Africa joined in 2010, completing the current five-member structure. The primary objectives of BRICS include fostering economic cooperation, promoting political dialogue, enhancing cultural exchanges, and advocating for a more representative and equitable global governance architecture.
The group represents over 41% of the world's population, approximately 24% of global GDP, and around 16% of world trade. Its collective voice holds significant weight in international forums, advocating for the interests of developing and emerging economies. Key initiatives like the New Development Bank (NDB), established in 2014, and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) underscore the group's commitment to creating alternative financial mechanisms and strengthening economic resilience among its members. These institutions aim to complement existing global financial structures and provide support for infrastructure and sustainable development projects.
The Indispensable Role of Sherpas
Sherpas are high-ranking officials appointed by the heads of state or government of their respective countries to prepare for international summits, particularly those of groups like BRICS and G20. Their role is pivotal, involving extensive negotiations, policy coordination, and drafting of declarations that will eventually be adopted by the leaders. They act as the primary interface between their national governments and the BRICS framework, ensuring continuity and coherence in the group's agenda. The Sherpa meetings are the foundational layer of BRICS diplomacy, where the substantive work of shaping priorities, identifying areas of consensus, and resolving potential divergences takes place, laying the groundwork for successful outcomes at higher-level engagements.
India’s Prior Engagements and 2021 Chairship Context
India has previously held the BRICS Chairship twice, in 2012 and 2016, demonstrating its consistent commitment to the grouping's objectives. During its 2012 Chairship, India hosted the fourth BRICS Summit in New Delhi, which focused on "BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Security and Prosperity." The 2016 Chairship saw the eighth BRICS Summit held in Goa, under the theme "Building Responsive, Inclusive and Collective Solutions." Both periods saw significant strides in intra-BRICS cooperation, including the push for the operationalization of the NDB and enhanced collaboration on counter-terrorism and economic matters.
The 2021 Chairship arrived at a critical juncture for the world. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic had reshaped global priorities, intensifying focus on public health, economic recovery, and resilient supply chains. Geopolitical landscapes were also in flux, with increasing calls for multilateralism and reforms of global institutions. Against this backdrop, India adopted the theme "BRICS@15: Intra-BRICS Cooperation for Continuity, Consolidation and Consensus" for its 2021 Chairship, reflecting a commitment to strengthening the group's foundational principles and driving forward its agenda amidst global challenges, as the grouping celebrated its 15th anniversary.
Key Developments: Setting the Agenda for India’s Chairship
The First BRICS Sherpa Meeting under India’s Chairship served as the crucial initial platform to articulate India's vision for the year and to align the priorities of all member states. The virtual meeting, necessitated by the global health crisis, nonetheless facilitated robust discussions among the Sherpas and Sous Sherpas, who are tasked with steering the preparatory work for the annual BRICS Leaders' Summit. India's Sherpa, Sanjay Bhattacharyya, Secretary (CPV & OIA) in the Ministry of External Affairs, led the Indian delegation, outlining the comprehensive agenda.
India’s Five Priority Areas
India presented a clear framework for its Chairship, identifying five key priority areas that would guide the year's deliberations and initiatives. These included:
1. Reform of the Multilateral System: A persistent BRICS objective, this priority emphasized the need for a more inclusive, transparent, and representative international system, particularly within the United Nations, World Trade Organization (WTO), and international financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank. Discussions likely centered on enhancing the voice and representation of developing countries.
2. Intra-BRICS Cooperation: This broad area encompassed various facets of collaboration, from trade and investment facilitation to enhancing connectivity and promoting digital transformation. The aim was to deepen economic ties and foster greater synergy among member economies, building on existing mechanisms and exploring new avenues for partnership.
3. Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Recognizing terrorism as a grave threat to global peace and security, India underscored the importance of strengthening BRICS cooperation in combating this menace. This included discussions on information sharing, capacity building, and coordinated efforts to counter financing of terrorism and cross-border terrorism.
4. Digital and Technological Cooperation: With the rapid advancement of technology and the accelerating pace of digitalization globally, this priority focused on leveraging digital solutions for inclusive development. Topics likely included digital health, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, aiming to bridge the digital divide and harness technology for societal benefit.
5. People-to-People Exchanges: Emphasizing the cultural and human dimensions of cooperation, this priority aimed to foster closer ties among the citizens of BRICS nations. Initiatives in areas such as youth exchanges, sports, tourism, and cultural festivals were envisioned to enhance mutual understanding and strengthen the social fabric of the grouping.
Discussions and Initial Consensus
The Sherpas engaged in extensive deliberations on these priority areas, reviewing the progress made during previous Chairships and identifying new opportunities for collaboration. The discussions likely covered the proposed calendar of events for the year, including ministerial meetings across various sectors (Foreign Affairs, Finance, Trade, Health, etc.), working group sessions, and expert consultations. There was a strong emphasis on maintaining the momentum of BRICS cooperation despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, with a focus on leveraging digital platforms for effective engagement.
Initial consensus emerged on the importance of strengthening the BRICS framework as a platform for dialogue and action on global issues. The Sherpas acknowledged the need for coordinated responses to global health crises, economic downturns, and climate change. They also discussed ways to enhance the operational efficiency of BRICS mechanisms and institutions, including the New Development Bank, to better serve the development needs of member countries and beyond. The meeting also laid the groundwork for the adoption of a comprehensive BRICS Leaders' Declaration at the end of India's Chairship, which would encapsulate the year's achievements and future directions.
Impact: Shaping Regional and Global Trajectories
The outcomes and trajectory set by the First BRICS Sherpa Meeting under India’s Chairship have far-reaching implications, not just for the member nations but also for the broader global landscape. The coordinated efforts and shared objectives of BRICS nations can significantly influence economic, political, and social developments on multiple fronts.
Impact on BRICS Nations
For Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the Chairship provides a renewed impetus for intra-BRICS cooperation. Economically, discussions on trade facilitation, investment promotion, and digital economy cooperation aim to boost mutual commerce and create resilient supply chains, reducing vulnerabilities to external shocks. Initiatives in digital health and traditional medicine, for example, can lead to shared best practices and collaborative research, directly benefiting the health security of their large populations. Politically, the regular high-level dialogues and coordinated stances on global issues reinforce their collective influence and provide a platform for addressing common challenges, from counter-terrorism to climate change. The focus on people-to-people exchanges also fosters greater cultural understanding and strengthens the social fabric linking these diverse nations.
Influence on Global Governance and Multilateralism
A core tenet of BRICS cooperation is the reform of the multilateral system. India's emphasis on this priority means continued advocacy for a more inclusive and representative global order. This impacts institutions like the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, and the international financial bodies, where BRICS collectively champions the voice of developing nations. Their push for reform aims to ensure that global decision-making processes better reflect the current geopolitical and economic realities, moving towards a more multipolar world. The group's stance on issues such as climate change and sustainable development also significantly contributes to global policy debates, often bridging the gap between developed and developing country perspectives.
Benefits for the Global South and Developing World
BRICS nations often act as a powerful voice for the Global South. By demonstrating successful models of South-South cooperation, they inspire and offer practical solutions to other developing countries. The New Development Bank, for instance, provides crucial infrastructure funding that might otherwise be difficult to secure. Discussions on digital transformation, sustainable development goals, and food security within BRICS can lead to the sharing of innovative approaches and technologies that can be adapted and implemented across the developing world, fostering inclusive growth and resilience against common challenges.
Sector-Specific Ramifications
Beyond broad economic and political impacts, the BRICS agenda has specific ramifications for various sectors. In the digital economy, cooperation can lead to harmonized regulations, shared digital infrastructure, and joint ventures in emerging technologies. For health, especially in the wake of the pandemic, collaboration on vaccine development, pharmaceutical production, and public health emergency preparedness is paramount. In energy and environment, discussions on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate action can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change and transition to greener economies. Furthermore, the focus on counter-terrorism strengthens international efforts to combat extremism by enhancing intelligence sharing and coordinated strategies among major global players.
The First Sherpa Meeting, therefore, was not merely a procedural event but a foundational step in shaping the strategic direction of BRICS, with significant potential to drive positive change across its member states and contribute to a more balanced and equitable global order.
What Next: Charting the Course for India’s BRICS Chairship
With the successful conclusion of the First BRICS Sherpa Meeting, the stage is set for a dynamic year of engagements under India's Chairship. The initial discussions have laid a robust foundation, outlining the strategic priorities and operational roadmap for the grouping. The coming months will witness a series of structured activities designed to translate these priorities into concrete outcomes, culminating in the annual Leaders' Summit.
Sequence of Engagements and Ministerial Meetings
Following the Sherpa meeting, the BRICS calendar typically unfolds with a series of preparatory meetings at various levels. These include:
Sous Sherpa Meetings: These technical meetings delve into the specifics of agenda items, often focusing on drafting documents and declarations, and resolving finer points of negotiation.
* Working Group Meetings: Numerous working groups operate across diverse sectors such as finance, trade, agriculture, science & technology, health, culture, and security. These groups bring together experts from member states to develop proposals and implement initiatives in their respective domains. For instance, discussions on digital health might lead to joint research projects or sharing of best practices in telemedicine.
* Ministerial Meetings: Key ministerial meetings are scheduled throughout the year, where ministers from the five countries convene to discuss policy directions and approve proposals prepared by the Sherpas and working groups. These include the meetings of Foreign Ministers, Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, Trade Ministers, Health Ministers, Agriculture Ministers, Science and Technology Ministers, and Ministers for Disaster Management, among others. These gatherings are crucial for advancing cooperation in specific sectors and providing political impetus to the BRICS agenda.
Engagement with the Business and Academic Communities
Beyond governmental interactions, India's Chairship will also facilitate robust engagement with the private sector and academic institutions.
BRICS Business Forum and Business Council: These platforms bring together business leaders from member states to discuss opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration. They play a vital role in identifying business-driven initiatives and providing recommendations to governments on improving the business environment within BRICS.
* BRICS Think Tanks Council and Academic Forum: These bodies foster intellectual exchange and provide policy recommendations to the BRICS leaders. Conferences, seminars, and research collaborations among leading think tanks and universities contribute to a deeper understanding of global challenges and innovative solutions.
* People-to-People Exchanges: In line with India's priority, various cultural, youth, and sports events will be organized to strengthen bonds among the citizens of BRICS nations, enhancing mutual appreciation and understanding.
The Annual BRICS Leaders’ Summit
The culmination of India's Chairship will be the annual BRICS Leaders' Summit, expected to be hosted in New Delhi later in the year. This high-profile event brings together the Heads of State or Government of all five member countries. The Summit serves as the ultimate decision-making body, where leaders review the progress made during the year, adopt a comprehensive Leaders' Declaration outlining their collective vision and commitments, and issue joint statements on key global issues. The Declaration typically covers a wide range of topics, from economic cooperation and financial stability to political dialogue, security challenges, and sustainable development. The success of the Sherpa meetings and subsequent ministerial engagements directly contributes to the richness and impact of the Summit's outcomes.
Long-Term Vision and India’s Enduring Role
Looking beyond the immediate Chairship, India's efforts are geared towards strengthening the BRICS institution for the long term. This includes discussions on enhancing the operational effectiveness of the New Development Bank, exploring potential for further institutionalization of BRICS mechanisms, and ensuring the group's continued relevance in a rapidly evolving global order. While the topic of BRICS expansion has gained significant traction in subsequent years, foundational discussions on strengthening the core group's appeal and capacity for broader engagement often begin during such Chairships. India, as a founding member and a consistent advocate for multilateralism, is poised to continue playing a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of BRICS, contributing to a more balanced, inclusive, and equitable global architecture.
