BRICS BANK TO GET GOING IN 2 YRS; INDIA
TO HEAD FOR 6 YRS
India will hold the Presidency of the USD 100
billion BRICS development bank for the first
six years, it was disclosed on Wednesday, a day after the five emerging
economies decided to set up the institution in a major step towards reshaping
the international financial system dominated by the West.
The New Development Bank to be based in Shanghai, China's financial hub, will become
operational in about two years.
India's presidency will be followed by Brazil
and Russia who will have five years term each under an agreement reached
after intense negotiations among the five country-grouping BRICS -Brazil,
Russia, India, China and South Africa.
The announcement about the bank and a USD 100 billion Currency
Reserve Arrangement (CRA) that will help countries to deal with
short-term liquidity pressures, was made last night at the conclusion of the
6th BRICS Summit in Fortaleza attended by
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Presidents Vladimir Putin of Russia, Xi Jinping
of China, Jacob Zuma of South Africa and Dilma Rousseff of Brazil.
Indian officials said a period of six months had been provided for ratification
of the agreement by respective Parliaments of the member-nations except in the
case of India where no parliamentary endorsement was required.
The member- countries have six months thereafter, to pay the first of the seven
instalments.
Given this time frame, the bank is expected to get going in about two years, officials
said.
For CRA, China will contribute maximum at USD 41 billion followed by India, Russia,
Brazil with USD 18 billion each and
South Africa with USD five billion to have a
positive precautionary effect, help countries forestall short-term liquidity
pressures, promote further BRICS cooperation as also strengthen the global
financial safety net.
Announcing the setting up of the bank, Rousseff said, "It will help
contain the volatility faced by diverse economies as a result of the tapering
of the United States' policy of monetary expansion."
"It is a sign of the times, which demand reform of the IMF," she told
reporters at the close of the summit.
Seen as first major achievement of the BRICS countries since they got together
in 2009 to press for a bigger say in the world monetary order, created by the
West and centered on the IMF and the World Bank, the setting up of the bank was
prompted to seek coordinated action following an exodus of capital from
emerging markets in view of the global meltdown.
Welcoming the Summit decision, Modi said, "The vision of a New Development
Bank, at the Delhi Summit two years ago, has been translated into a reality, in
Fortaleza. It will benefit BRICS nations.
But will also support other developing nations. And, it will be rooted in our
own experiences, as developing countries.
"The BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement gives BRICS nations a new
instrument for safeguarding their economic stability. This is an important
initiative at a time of high volatility in global financial markets," he
said.
SIXTH BRICS SUMMIT –
FORTALEZA DECLARATION
1. We, the leaders of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian
Federation, the Republic of India, the People’s Republic of China and the
Republic of South Africa, met in Fortaleza, Brazil, on 15 July 2014 at the
Sixth BRICS Summit. To inaugurate the second cycle of BRICS Summits, the theme
chosen for our discussions was "Inclusive Growth: Sustainable Solutions”,
in keeping with the inclusive macroeconomic and social policies carried out by
our governments and the imperative to address challenges to humankind posed by
the need to simultaneously achieve growth, inclusiveness, protection and
preservation.
2. In the aftermath of the first cycle of five Summits, hosted by every BRICS
member, our coordination is well established in various multilateral and
plurilateral initiatives and intra-BRICS cooperation is expanding to encompass
new areas.
3. We renew our openness to increasing engagement with other countries,
particularly developing countries and emerging market economies, as well as
with international and regional organizations, with a view to fostering
cooperation and solidarity in our relations with all nations and peoples. To
that effect, we will hold a joint session with the leaders of the South
American nations, under the theme of the Sixth BRICS Summit, with a view to
furthering cooperation between BRICS and South America.
We reaffirm our support for the South American integration processes, and
recognize in particular the importance of the Union of South American Nations
(UNASUR) in promoting peace and democracy in the region, and in achieving
sustainable development and poverty eradication.
We believe that strengthened dialogue among BRICS and South American countries
can play an active role in enhancing multilateralism and international
cooperation, for the promotion of peace, security, economic and social progress
and sustainable development in an interdependent and increasingly complex,
globalizing world.
4. Since its inception the BRICS have been guided by the overarching objectives
of peace, security, development and cooperation. In this new cycle, while
remaining committed to those objectives, we pledge to deepen our partnership
with a renewed vision, based on openness, inclusiveness and mutually beneficial
cooperation.
5. The Sixth Summit takes place at a crucial juncture, as the international
community assesses how to address the challenges of strong economic recovery
from the global financial crises, sustainable development, including climate
change, while also formulating the post-2015 Development Agenda.
At the same time, we are confronted with persistent political instability and
conflict in various global hotspots and non-conventional emerging threats. On
the other hand, international governance structures designed within a different
power configuration show increasingly evident signs of losing legitimacy and
effectiveness, as transitional and ad hoc arrangements become increasingly
prevalent, often at the expense of multilateralism.
6. During the first cycle of BRICS Summits, collectively our economies have
consolidated their position as the main engines for sustaining the pace of the
international economy as it recovers from the recent economic and financial
global crisis. The BRICS continue to contribute significantly to global growth
and to the reduction of poverty in our own and other countries.
In this new cycle, besides its contribution in fostering strong, sustainable
and balanced growth, BRICS will continue to play a significant role in
promoting social development and in contributing to define the international
agenda in this area, building on its experience in addressing the challenges of
poverty and inequality.
7. To better reflect the advancement of the social policies of the BRICS and
the positive impacts of its economic growth, we instruct our National
Institutes of Statistics and the Ministries of Health and Education to work on
the development of joint methodologies for social indicators to be incorporated
in the BRICS Joint Statistical Publication. We also encourage the BRICS Think
Tanks Council to provide technical support in this task. We further request the
BRICS National Institutes of Statistics to discuss the viability and feasibility
of a platform for the development of such methodologies and to report thereon.
8. The world economy has strengthened, with signs of improvement in some
advanced economies. Significant downside risks to this recovery remain,
however.
9. Strong macroeconomic frameworks, well regulated financial markets and robust
levels of reserves have allowed EMDCs in general, and the BRICS in particular,
to better deal with the risks and spillovers presented by the challenging
economic conditions in the last few years. Nevertheless, further macroeconomic
coordination amongst all major economies, in particular in the G20, remains a
critical factor for strengthening the prospects for a vigorous and sustainable
recovery worldwide.
In this context, we reaffirm our strong commitment to continue working among
ourselves and with the global community to foster financial stability, support
sustainable, stronger and inclusive growth and promote quality jobs.
10. We commend Russia for the successful work during its presidency of the G20
in 2013. The institution of the BRICS Summits largely coincided with the
beginning of the global crisis, the first G20 Summits and the consolidation of
that Group as the premier forum for economic coordination among its members. As
a new round of BRICS Summits begins, we remain committed to deliver
constructive responses to global economic and financial challenges and to serve
as a strong voice for the promotion of sustainable development, inclusive
growth, financial stability and of more representative international economic
governance.
11. BRICS, as well as other EMDCs, continue to face significant financing
constraints to address infrastructure gaps and sustainable development needs.
With this in mind, we are pleased to announce the signing of the Agreement
establishing the New Development Bank (NDB), with the purpose of mobilizing
resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and
other emerging and developing economies.
We appreciate the work undertaken by our Finance Ministers. Based on sound
banking principles, the NDB will strengthen the cooperation among our countries
and will supplement the efforts of multilateral and regional financial
institutions for global development, thus contributing to our collective
commitments for achieving the goal of strong, sustainable and balanced growth.
12. The Bank shall have an initial authorized capital of US$ 100 billion. The
initial subscribed capital shall be of US$ 50 billion, equally shared among
founding members. The first chair of the Board of Governors shall be from
Russia. The first chair of the Board of Directors shall be from Brazil. The
first President of the Bank shall be from India. The headquarters of the Bank
shall be located in Shanghai. The New Development Bank Africa Regional Center
shall be established in South Africa concurrently with the headquarters. We
direct our Finance Ministers to work out the modalities for its
operationalization.
13. We are pleased to announce the signing of the Treaty for the establishment
of the BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) with an initial size of US$
100 billion. This arrangement will have a positive precautionary effect, help
countries forestall short-term liquidity pressures, promote further BRICS
cooperation, strengthen the global financial safety net and complement existing
international arrangements.
We appreciate the work undertaken by our Finance Ministers and Central Bank
Governors. The Agreement is a framework for the provision of liquidity through
currency swaps in response to actual or potential short-term balance of
payments pressures.
14. We also welcome the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on
Cooperation among BRICS Export Credit and Guarantees Agencies that will improve
the support environment for increasing trade opportunities among our nations.
15. We appreciate the progress our Development Banks have made in enhancing and
strengthening the financial ties among BRICS countries.
16. We recognize that there is potential for BRICS insurance and reinsurance
markets to pool capacities. We direct our relevant authorities to explore
avenues of cooperation in this regard.
17. We believe that sustainable development and economic growth will be
facilitated by taxation of revenue generated in jurisdictions where economic
activity takes place. We express our concern over the harmful impact of tax
evasion, transnational fraud and aggressive tax planning on the world economy.
We are aware of the challenges brought by aggressive tax avoidance and
non-compliance practices. We, therefore, affirm our commitment to continue a
cooperative approach on issues related to tax administrations and to enhance
cooperation in the international forums targeting tax base erosion and
information exchange for tax purposes.
18. We remain disappointed and seriously concerned with the current
non-implementation of the 2010 International Monetary Fund (IMF) reforms, which
negatively impacts on the IMF’s legitimacy, credibility and effectiveness. The
IMF reform process is based on high-level commitments, which already
strengthened the Fund's resources and must also lead to the modernization of
its governance structure so as to better reflect the increasing weight of EMDCs
in the world economy.
The Fund must remain a quota-based institution. We call on the membership of
the IMF to find ways to implement the 14th General Review of Quotas without
further delay.
We reiterate our call on the IMF to develop options to move ahead with its
reform process, with a view to ensuring increased voice and representation of
EMDCs, in case the 2010 reforms are not entered into force by the end of the
year. We also call on the membership of the IMF to reach a final agreement on a
new quota formula together with the 15th General Review of Quotas so as not to
further jeopardize the postponed deadline of January 2015.
19. We welcome the goals set by the World Bank Group to help countries end
extreme poverty and to promote shared prosperity.
We recognize the potential of this new strategy in support of the fulfillment
of these ambitious goals by the international community.
This potential will only be realized, however, if the institution and its
membership effectively move towards more democratic governance structures,
strengthen the Bank's financial capacity and explore innovative ways to enhance
development financing and knowledge sharing while pursuing a strong client
orientation that recognizes each country's development needs.
We look forward to initiating the work on the next shareholding review at the
World Bank as soon as possible in order to meet the agreed deadline of October
2015.
20. We are committed to raise our economic cooperation to a qualitatively new
level. To achieve this, we emphasize the importance of establishing a road map
for intra-BRICS economic cooperation. In this regard, we welcome the proposals
for a "BRICS Economic Cooperation Strategy” and a "Framework of BRICS
Closer Economic Partnership”, which lay down steps to promote intra-BRICS
economic, trade and investment cooperation.
21. We believe all countries should enjoy due rights, equal opportunities and
fair participation in global economic, financial and trade affairs, recognizing
that countries have different capacities and are at different levels of
development. We strive for an open world economy with efficient allocation of
resources, free flow of goods, and fair and orderly competition to the benefit
of all.
We look forward to the implementation of the Agreement on Trade Facilitation.
We call upon international partners to provide support to the poorest, most
vulnerable WTO members to enable them to implement this Agreement, which should
support their development objectives.
We strongly support the WTO dispute settlement system as a cornerstone of the
security and predictability of the multilateral trading system and we will
enhance our ongoing dialogue on substantive and practical matters relating to
it, including in the ongoing negotiations on WTO Dispute Settlement
Understanding reform. We recognize the importance of Regional Trade Agreements,
which should complement the multilateral trading system, and of keeping them
open, inclusive and transparent, as well as refraining from introducing exclusive
and discriminatory clauses and standards.
22. We reaffirm the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development’s
(UNCTAD) mandate as the focal point in the UN system dedicated to consider the
interrelated issues of trade, investment, finance and technology from a
development perspective. UNCTAD’s mandate and work are unique and necessary to
deal with the challenges of development and growth in the increasingly
interdependent global economy. In congratulating UNCTAD for the 50th
anniversary of its foundation in 2014, which is also the anniversary of the
establishment of the Group of 77, we further reaffirm the importance of
strengthening UNCTAD’s capacity to deliver on its programs of consensus
building, policy dialogue, research, technical cooperation and capacity
building so that it is better equipped to deliver on its development mandate.
23. We acknowledge the important role that State Owned Companies (SOCs) play in
the economy and encourage our SOCs to continue to explore ways of cooperation,
exchange of information and best practices. We also recognize the fundamental
role played by small and medium-sized enterprises in the economies of our
countries as major creators of jobs and wealth.
24. We underline that 2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the
United Nations (UN) and the end of the Second World War. In this connection, we
support the UN to initiate and organize commemorative events to mark and pay
tribute to these two historical moments in human history, and reaffirm our
commitment to safeguarding a just and fair international order based on the UN
Charter, maintaining world peace and security, as well as promoting human
progress and development.
25. We reiterate our strong commitment to the UN as the fundamental multilateral
organization entrusted with helping the international community maintain
international peace and security, protect and foster human rights and promote
sustainable development.
The UN enjoys universal membership and is at the very center of global governance
and multilateralism. We recall the 2005 World Summit Outcome Document. We
reaffirm the need for a comprehensive reform of the UN, including its Security
Council, with a view to making it more representative, effective and efficient,
so that it can adequately respond to global challenges. China and Russia
reiterate the importance they attach to Brazil, India and South Africa's status
and role in international affairs and support their aspiration to play a
greater role in the UN.
26. We recall that development and security are closely interlinked, mutually
reinforcing and key to attaining sustainable peace. We reiterate our view that
the establishment of sustainable peace requires a comprehensive, concerted and
determined approach, based on mutual trust, mutual benefit, equity and
cooperation, that addresses the root causes of conflicts, including their
political, economic and social dimensions. In this context, we also stress the
close interrelation between peacekeeping and peacebuilding. We also highlight
the importance of bringing gender perspectives to conflict prevention and
resolution, peacebuilding, peacekeeping, rehabilitation and reconstruction
efforts.
27. We will continue our joint efforts in coordinating positions and acting on
shared interests on global peace and security issues for the common well-being
of humanity. We stress our commitment to the sustainable and peaceful
settlement of disputes, according to the principles and purposes of the UN
Charter. We condemn unilateral military interventions and economic sanctions in
violation of international law and universally recognized norms of
international relations. Bearing this in mind, we emphasize the unique
importance of the indivisible nature of security, and that no State should strengthen
its security at the expense of the security of others.
28. We agree to continue to treat all human rights, including the right to
development, in a fair and equal manner, on the same footing and with the same
emphasis. We will foster dialogue and cooperation on the basis of equality and
mutual respect in the field of human rights, both within BRICS and in
multilateral fora – including the United Nations Human Rights Council where all
BRICS serve as members in 2014 – taking into account the necessity to promote,
protect and fulfill human rights in a non-selective, non-politicized and
constructive manner, and without double standards.
29. We commend the efforts made by the United Nations, the African Union (AU),
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Community of
Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), among others, in support for the
realization of legislative and presidential elections in Guinea Bissau, paving
the way for the return to constitutional democracy in the country. We recognize
the importance of promoting long-term political stability in Guinea-Bissau,
which necessarily encompasses measures to reduce food insecurity and to advance
a comprehensive security sector reform, as proposed by the Guinea-Bissau
Configuration of the UN Peacebuilding Commission. Similarly, we also welcome
the efforts of the UN, AU and Southern African Development Community (SADC) in
support of legislative and presidential elections in Madagascar, assisting in
the return of constitutional democracy in the country.
30. We commend the efforts of the international community in addressing
instability in Africa through engagement with, and coordination by, the AU and
its Peace and Security Council. We express our deep concern at the
deterioration of the security and the humanitarian situation in West Africa. We
call upon all parties in these conflicts to cease hostilities, exercise
restraint and engage in dialogue to ensure return to peace and stability.
However, we also note the progress that has been made in areas of the region in
addressing political and security challenges.
31. We also express our concern with the plight of the abducted women and
children of Chibok and call for an end to the continued terrorist acts
perpetrated by Boko Haram.
32. We support the efforts of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization
Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) in its task to help the Government of Mali fully
stabilize the country, facilitate national political dialogue, protect
civilians, monitor the human rights situation, create conditions for the
provision of humanitarian assistance and the return of displaced persons, and
extend the State authority in the whole country. We emphasize the importance of
an inclusive political process; the immediate implementation of a disarmament,
demobilization and reintegration (DDR) process; and political, economic and
social development in order for Mali to achieve sustainable peace and
stability.
33. We express our concern about the ongoing political and humanitarian crises
in South Sudan. We condemn the continuation of violence against civilians and
call upon all parties to ensure a safe environment for the delivery of
humanitarian assistance. We also condemn the continuation of confrontations
despite the successive commitments to the cessation of hostilities and express
our belief that a sustainable solution to the crisis is only possible through
an inclusive political dialogue aimed at national reconciliation. We support,
in this regard, the regional efforts to find a peaceful solution to the crisis,
especially the mediation process led by the Intergovernmental Authority on
Development (IGAD). We welcome the "Agreement to Resolve the Crisis in
South Sudan", signed on May 9, and expect the political leaders of South
Sudan to remain committed to the negotiation process and to the completion of
dialogue on the formation of a transitional government of national unity within
60 days, as announced by IGAD on June 10. We commend the efforts of the United
Nations Mission in South Sudan to fulfill its mandate and express our deep
concern about the armed attacks that were led against UN bases in the country.
34. We reiterate our grave concern with the situation in the Central African
Republic (CAR). We strongly condemn the abuses and acts of violence against the
civilian population, including sectarian violence, and urge all armed groups to
cease hostilities immediately. We recognize the efforts of the Economic
Community of Central African States and the AU to restore peace and stability
in the country. We commend the establishment of the UN Multidimensional
Integrated Stabilization Mission in the CAR (MINUSCA). We express our support
for a successful transition from the African-led International Support Mission
to the CAR (MISCA) to MINUSCA by 15 September 2014. We urge the transitional
authorities in the CAR to adhere strictly to the N'Djamena Roadmap. We call
upon all parties to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access to those in
need. We reaffirm our readiness to work with the international community to
assist the CAR in accelerating the implementation of the political process of
the country.
35. We support the efforts by the UN, in particular the UN Organization
Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO),
deployed under UN Security Council resolution 2098, and the regional and
sub-regional organizations to bring peace and stability to the Democratic
Republic of the Congo (DRC), and we call upon all involved to honor their
obligations in order to achieve lasting peace and stability in the DRC.
36. We welcome the AU Malabo Summit decision to establish an interim African
Capacity for Immediate Response to Crises (ACIRC) by October 2014 to respond
quickly to crisis situations as they arise. We stress the importance of adequate
support to ensure the timely operationalization of the ACIRC, pending the final
establishment of the African Stand-by Force.
37. We express deep concern about the ongoing violence and the deterioration of
the humanitarian situation in Syria and condemn the increasing violations of
human rights by all parties. We reiterate our view that there is no military
solution to the conflict, and highlight the need to avoid its further
militarization. We call upon all parties to commit immediately to a complete cease-fire,
to halt violence and to allow and facilitate immediate, safe, full and
unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations and agencies, in compliance
with the UN Security Council resolution 2139.
We reiterate our condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations,
wherever it occurs. We are gravely concerned at the continued threat of
terrorism and extremism in Syria. We call on all Syrian parties to commit to
putting an end to terrorist acts perpetrated by Al-Qaeda, its affiliates and other
terrorist organizations. We strongly condemn the use of chemical weapons in any
circumstances. We welcome the decision of the Syrian Arab Republic to accede to
the Chemical Weapons Convention. In accordance with related Organization for
the Proscription of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Executive Council decisions and UN
Security Council resolution 2118, we reiterate the importance of the complete
removal and elimination of the Syrian chemical weapons.
We commend the progress in that regard and welcome the announcement that the
removal of declared chemicals from the Syrian Arab Republic was completed. We
call on all Syrian parties and interested external actors with relevant
capabilities to work closely together and with the OPCW and the UN to arrange
for the security of the monitoring and destruction mission in its final stage.
We support the mediation role played by the UN. We appreciate the contribution
made by former Joint UN – Arab League Special Representative for Syria, Mr.
Lakhdar Brahimi, and welcome the appointment of Mr. Staffan De Mistura as UN
Special Envoy to Syria, and express our hope for his active efforts to promote
an early resumption of comprehensive negotiations. We recall that national
dialogue and reconciliation are key to the political solution for the Syrian
crisis. We take note of the recent Syrian presidential elections.
We stress that only an inclusive political process, led by the Syrians, as
recommended in the Action Group on Syria Final Communiqué of 2012, will lead to
peace, effective protection of civilians, the realization of the legitimate
aspirations of the Syrian society for freedom and prosperity and respect for
Syrian independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty. We emphasize that a
national reconciliation process needs to be launched as early as possible, in
the interest of the national unity of Syria. To that end, we urge all parties
in Syria to demonstrate political will, enhance mutual understanding, exercise
restraint and commit to seeking common ground in accommodating their
differences.
38. We reaffirm our commitment to contribute to a comprehensive, just and
lasting settlement of the Arab-Israeli conflict on the basis of the universally
recognized international legal framework, including the relevant UN resolutions,
the Madrid Principles and the Arab Peace Initiative. We believe that the
resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a fundamental component for
building a sustainable peace in the Middle East.
We call upon Israel and Palestine to resume negotiations leading to a two-State
solution with a contiguous and economically viable Palestinian State existing
side by side in peace with Israel, within mutually agreed and internationally
recognized borders based on the 4 June 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its
capital. We oppose the continuous construction and expansion of settlements in
the Occupied Palestinian Territories by the Israeli Government, which violates
international law, gravely undermines peace efforts and threatens the viability
of the two-State solution. We welcome recent efforts to achieve
intra-Palestinian unity, including the formation of a national unity government
and steps towards conducting general elections, which is key element to
consolidate a democratic and sustainable Palestinian State, and call on the
parties to fully commit to the obligations assumed by Palestine.
We call on the UN Security Council to fully exercise its functions under the UN
Charter with regard to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
We recall with satisfaction the decision of the UN General Assembly to proclaim
2014 the International Year of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, welcome
the efforts of UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in providing assistance and
protection for Palestine refugees and encourage the international community to
continue to support the activities of the agency.
39. We express our support for the convening, at the earliest possible date, of
the Conference on the establishment of a Middle East zone free of nuclear
weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction. We call upon all states of
the region to attend the Conference and to engage constructively and in a
pragmatic manner with a view to advancing that goal.
40. Noting the open-ended consultations on a draft International Code of
Conduct on Outer Space Activities, and the active and constructive engagement
of our countries in these consultations, we call for an inclusive and
consensus-based multilateral negotiation to be conducted within the framework
of the UN without specific deadlines in order to reach a balanced outcome that
addresses the needs and reflects the concerns of all participants. Reaffirming
our will that the exploration and use of outer space shall be for peaceful
purposes, we stress that negotiations for the conclusion of an international
agreement or agreements to prevent an arms race in outer space remain a
priority task of the Conference on Disarmament, and welcome the introduction by
China and Russia of the updated draft Treaty on the Prevention of the Placement
of Weapons in Outer Space, the Threat or Use of Force Against Outer Space
Objects.
41. While reiterating our view that there is no alternative to a negotiated
solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, we reaffirm our support to its resolution
through political and diplomatic means and dialogue. In this context, we
welcome the positive momentum generated by talks between Iran and the E3+3 and
encourage the thorough implementation of the Geneva Joint Plan of Action of 24
November 2013, with a view to achieving a comprehensive and long-lasting
solution to this issue. We also encourage Iran and the International Atomic
Energy Agency (IAEA) to continue strengthening their cooperation and dialogue
on the basis of the Joint Statement signed on 11 November 2013.
42. Recognizing that peace, security and development are closely interlinked,
we reaffirm that Afghanistan needs time, development assistance and
cooperation, preferential access to world markets and foreign investment to
attain lasting peace and stability. We support the commitment of the
international community to remain engaged in Afghanistan during the
transformation decade (2015-2024), as enunciated at the Bonn International
Conference in December 2011. We stress that the UN should play an increasingly
important role in assisting Afghanistan's national reconciliation, recovery and
economic reconstruction. We also reaffirm our commitment to support
Afghanistan's emergence as a peaceful, stable and democratic state, free of
terrorism and extremism, and underscore the need for more effective regional
and international cooperation for the stabilization of Afghanistan, including
by combating terrorism. We extend support to the efforts aimed at combating
illicit traffic in opiates originating in Afghanistan within the framework of
the Paris Pact. We expect a broad-based and inclusive peace process in
Afghanistan which is Afghan-led and Afghan-owned. We welcome the second round
of the presidential elections in Afghanistan which contribute to the democratic
transfer of power in this country. We welcome China’s offer to host the Fourth
Heart of Asia Ministerial Conference in August 2014.
43. We are deeply concerned by the situation in Iraq. We strongly support the
Iraqi government in its effort to overcome the crisis, uphold national
sovereignty and territorial integrity. We are concerned about spillover effects
of the instability in Iraq resulting from increased terrorist activities in the
region, and urge all parties to address the terrorist threat in a consistent
manner. We urge all regional and global players to refrain from interference
that will further deepen the crisis and to support the Iraqi government and the
people of Iraq in their efforts to overcome the crisis, and build a stable,
inclusive and united Iraq. We emphasize the importance of national
reconciliation and unity in Iraq, taking into consideration the wars and
conflicts the Iraqi people have suffered and in this context we commend the
peaceful and orderly holding of the latest parliamentary elections.
44. We express our deep concern with the situation in Ukraine. We call for a
comprehensive dialogue, the de-escalation of the conflict and restraint from
all the actors involved, with a view to finding a peaceful political solution,
in full compliance with the UN Charter and universally recognized human rights
and fundamental freedoms.
45. We reaffirm our commitment to continue to tackle transnational organized
crime, with full respect for human rights, in order to reduce the negative
impact it has on individuals and societies. We encourage joint efforts aimed at
preventing and combating transnational criminal activities in accordance with
national legislations and international legal instruments, especially the UN
Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. In this regard, we welcome
BRICS cooperation in multilateral fora, highlighting our engagement in the
ECOSOC Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.
46. Piracy and armed robbery at sea are complex phenomena that must be fought
effectively in a comprehensive and integrated manner. We welcome the efforts
made by the international community to counter maritime piracy and call upon
all stakeholders – civilian and military, public and private – to remain
engaged in the fight against this phenomenon. We also highlight the need for a
transparent and objective review of the High Risk Areas, with a view to
avoiding unnecessary negative effects on the economy and security of coastal
states. We commit to strengthen our cooperation on this serious issue.
47. We are deeply concerned by the world drug problem, which continues to
threaten public health, safety and well-being and to undermine social, economic
and political stability and sustainable development. We are committed to
countering the world drug problem, which remains a common and shared
responsibility, through an integrated, multidisciplinary, mutually reinforcing
and balanced approach to supply and demand reduction strategies, in line with
the three UN drug conventions and other relevant norms and principles of
international law. We welcome the substantive work done by Russia in preparing
and hosting the International Ministers Meeting on 15 May 2014 to discuss the
world drug problem. We take note of the proposal for the creation of an
Anti-Drug Working Group presented at the Second Meeting of BRICS Heads of Drug
Control Agencies.
48. We reiterate our strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and
manifestations and stress that there can be no justification, whatsoever, for
any acts of terrorism, whether based upon ideological, religious, political,
racial, ethnic, or any other justification. We call upon all entities to
refrain from financing, encouraging, providing training for or otherwise
supporting terrorist activities. We believe that the UN has a central role in
coordinating international action against terrorism, which must be conducted in
accordance with international law, including the UN Charter, and with respect
to human rights and fundamental freedoms. In this context, we reaffirm our
commitment to the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.
We express our concern at the increasing use, in a globalized society, by
terrorists and their supporters, of information and communications technologies
(ICTs), in particular the Internet and other media, and reiterate that such
technologies can be powerful tools in countering the spread of terrorism,
including by promoting tolerance and dialogue among peoples. We will continue
to work together to conclude as soon as possible negotiations and to adopt in
the UN General Assembly the Comprehensive Convention on International
Terrorism. We also stress the need to promote cooperation among our countries
in preventing terrorism, especially in the context of major events.
49. We believe that ICTs should provide instruments to foster sustainable
economic progress and social inclusion, working together with the ICT industry,
civil society and academia in order to realize the ICT-related potential opportunities
and benefits for all. We agree that particular attention should be given to
young people and to small and medium-sized enterprises, with a view to
promoting international exchange and cooperation, as well as to fostering
innovation, ICT research and development. We agree that the use and development
of ICTs through international cooperation and universally accepted norms and
principles of international law is of paramount importance, in order to ensure
a peaceful, secure and open digital and Internet space. We strongly condemn
acts of mass electronic surveillance and data collection of individuals all
over the world, as well as violation of the sovereignty of States and of human
rights, in particular the right to privacy. We take note of the Global
Multistakeholder Meeting on the Future of Internet, held in São Paulo, on 23-24
April 2014. We thank Brazil for having organized it.
50. We will explore cooperation on combating cybercrimes and we also recommit
to the negotiation of a universal legally binding instrument in that field. We
consider that the UN has a central role in this matter. We agree it is
necessary to preserve ICTs, particularly the Internet, as an instrument of
peace and development and to prevent its use as a weapon. Moreover, we commit
ourselves to working together in order to identify possibilities of developing
joint activities to address common security concerns in the use of ICTs. We
reiterate the common approach set forth in the eThekwini Declaration about the
importance of security in the use of ICTs. We welcome the decision of the
National Security Advisors to establish a group of experts of BRICS member
States which will elaborate practical proposals concerning major fields of
cooperation and coordinate our positions in international fora. Bearing in mind
the significance of these issues, we take note of Russia’s proposal of a BRICS
agreement on cooperation in this field to be jointly elaborated.
51. We reiterate our commitment to the implementation of the Convention on Biological
Diversity and its Protocols, with special attention to the Strategic Plan for
Biodiversity 2011-2020 and the Aichi Targets. We recognize the challenge posed
by the agreed targets on conservation of biodiversity and reaffirm the need to
implement the decisions on resource mobilization agreed to by all parties in
Hyderabad in 2012, and set resource mobilization targets that are ambitious in
order to allow for their fulfillment.
52. Acknowledging that climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing
humankind, we call on all countries to build upon the decisions adopted in the
UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) with a view to reaching a
successful conclusion by 2015, of negotiations on the development of a
protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under
the Convention applicable to all Parties, in accordance with the principles and
provisions of UNFCCC, in particular the principle of common but differentiated
responsibilities and respective capabilities. In this regard, we reiterate our
support to the Presidency of the 20th session of the Conference of the Parties
and the 10th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of
the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol, to be held in Lima, Peru, in December 2014.
We also note the convening of the UN Climate Summit 2014 to be held this
September.
53. While bearing in mind that fossil fuel remains one of the major sources of
energy, we reiterate our belief that renewable and clean energy, research and
development of new technologies and energy efficiency, can constitute an
important driver to promote sustainable development, create new economic
growth, reduce energy costs and increase the efficiency in the use of natural
resources. Considering the dynamic link between renewable and clean energy and
sustainable development, we reaffirm the importance of continuing international
efforts aimed at promoting the deployment of renewable and clean energy and
energy efficiency technologies, taking into account national policies,
priorities and resources. We stand for strengthening international cooperation to
promote renewable and clean energy and to universalize energy access, which is
of great importance to improving the standard of living of our peoples.
54. We are committed to working towards an inclusive, transparent and
participative intergovernmental process for building a universal and integrated
development agenda with poverty eradication as the central and overarching
objective. The agenda should integrate the economic, social and environmental
dimensions of sustainable development in a balanced and comprehensive manner
with concise, implementable and measurable goals, taking into account differing
national realities and levels of development and respecting national policies
and priorities. The Post-2015 Development Agenda must also be based on and fully
respect all Rio principles on sustainable development, including the principle
of common but differentiated responsibilities. We welcome the outcome document
of the UN General Assembly Special Event on the Millennium Development Goals,
which decided to launch an intergovernmental process at the beginning of the
69th Session of the UN General Assembly that will lead to the adoption of the
Post-2015 Development Agenda.
55. We reiterate our commitment to the UN General Assembly Open Working Group
on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to working together to achieve a
consensual and ambitious proposal on SDGs. We emphasize the importance of the
work by the Intergovernmental Committee of Experts on Sustainable Development
Financing and highlight the need for an effective sustainable development
financing strategy to facilitate the mobilization of resources in achieving
sustainable development objectives and supporting developing countries in the
implementation efforts, with ODA as a major source of financing. We support the
creation of a facilitation mechanism for the development, transfer and
dissemination of clean and environmentally sound technologies and call for the
establishment of a working group within the UN on this proposal, taking into
account the Rio+20 outcome document and the Secretary General's reports on the
issue. In this regard, we reaffirm that the outcome of each of these processes
can contribute to the formulation of Sustainable Development Goals.
56. We recognize the strategic importance of education for sustainable
development and inclusive economic growth. We reaffirm our commitment to
accelerating progress in attaining the Education for All goals and
education-related Millennium Development Goals by 2015 and stress that the development
agenda beyond 2015 should build on these goals to ensure equitable, inclusive
and quality education and lifelong learning for all. We are willing to
strengthen intra-BRICS cooperation in the area and welcome the meeting of
Ministers of Education held in Paris, in November 2013. We intend to continue
cooperation with relevant international organizations. We encourage the
initiative to establish the BRICS Network University.
57. In March 2014 we agreed to collaborate through dialogue, cooperation, sharing
of experiences and capacity building on population related matters of mutual
concern to member states. We recognize the vital importance of the demographic
dividend that many of us possess to advance our sustainable development as well
as the need to integrate population factors into national development plans,
and to promote a long-term balanced population and development. The demographic
transition and post-transition challenges, including population ageing and
mortality reduction are amongst the most important challenges facing the world
today. We confirm our strong commitment to address social issues in general and
in particular gender inequality, women's rights and issues facing young people
and we reaffirm our determination to ensure sexual and reproductive health and
reproductive rights for all.
58. We recognize that corruption negatively affects sustainable economic
growth, poverty reduction and financial stability. We are committed to combat
domestic and foreign bribery, and strengthen international cooperation,
including law enforcement cooperation, in accordance with multilaterally
established principles and norms, especially the UN Convention Against
Corruption.
59. Considering the link between culture and sustainable development, as well as
the role of cultural diplomacy as a promoter of understanding between peoples,
we will encourage cooperation between BRICS countries in the cultural sector,
including on the multilateral basis. Recognizing the contribution and the
benefits of cultural exchanges and cooperation in enhancing our mutual
understanding and friendship, we will actively promote greater awareness,
understanding and appreciation of each other’s arts and culture. In this
regard, we ask our relevant authorities responsible for culture to explore
areas of practical cooperation, including to expedite negotiations on the draft
agreement on cultural cooperation.
60. We are pleased with progress in implementing the eThekwini Action Plan,
which further enhanced our cooperation and unleashed greater potential for our
development. In this regard, we commend South Africa for the full
implementation of the eThekwini Action Plan.
61. We are committed to promoting agricultural cooperation and to exchange
information regarding strategies for ensuring access to food for the most
vulnerable population, reduction of negative impact of climate change on food
security and adaptation of agriculture to climate change. We recall with
satisfaction the decision of UN General Assembly to declare 2014 the International
Year of Family Farming.
62. We take note of the following meetings which were held in preparation for
this Summit:
- Third BRICS Think Tanks Council (BTTC);
- Third BRICS Business Council;
- Sixth Academic Forum;
- Fifth Business Forum;
- Fourth Financial Forum.
63. We welcome the outcomes of the meeting of the BRICS Finance Ministers and
Central Bank Governors and endorse the Joint Communiqué of the Meeting of the
BRICS Trade Ministers held in preparation for the Summit.
64. The 5th edition of the BRICS Business Forum provided an opportunity for
match-making and for in-depth discussion of highly relevant issues of the trade
and investment agenda. We welcome the meeting of the BRICS Business Council and
commend it for its Annual Report 2013/2014. We encourage the respective
business communities to follow-up the initiatives proposed and to deepen
dialogue and cooperation in the five areas dealt with by the Industry/Sector
Working Groups with a view to intensifying trade and investment flows amongst
BRICS countries as well as between BRICS and other partners around the world.
65. We reiterate our commitment made during the BRICS Leaders-Africa Retreat at
the 5th BRICS Summit to foster and develop BRICS-Africa cooperation in support
of the socioeconomic development of Africa, particularly with regard to
infrastructure development and industrialization. We welcome the inclusion of
these issues in discussions during the BRICS Business Council Meeting, held in
Johannesburg in August 2013.
66. We welcome the BTTC Study "Towards a Long-Term Strategy for BRICS:
Recommendations by the BTTC”. We acknowledge the decision taken by the BTTC,
taken at its Rio de Janeiro meeting in March 2014 to focus its work on the five
pillars upon which the BRICS long-term strategy for cooperation will rest. The
BTTC is encouraged to develop strategic pathways and action plans that will
lead to the realization of this long-term strategy.
67. We welcome the holding of the first Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Science,
Technology and Innovation and the Cape Town Declaration, which is aimed at: (i)
strengthening cooperation in science, technology and innovation; (ii)
addressing common global and regional socio-economic challenges utilizing
shared experiences and complementarities; (iii) co-generating new knowledge and
innovative products, services and processes utilizing appropriate funding and
investment instruments; and (iv) promoting, where appropriate, joint BRICS
partnerships with other strategic actors in the developing world. We instruct
the BRICS Ministers of Science and Technology to sign at their next meeting the
Memorandum of Understanding on Science, Technology and Innovation, which
provides a strategic framework for cooperation in this field.
68. We welcome the establishment of the BRICS Information Sharing and Exchange
Platform, which seeks to facilitate trade and investment cooperation.
69. We will continue to improve competition policy and enforcement, undertake
actions to address challenges that BRICS Competition Authorities face and
further enable competitive environments in order to enhance contributions to
economic growth in our economies. We note South Africa’s offer to host the 4th
Meeting of BRICS Competition Authorities in 2015.
70. We reiterate our commitment to fostering our partnership for common
development. To this end, we adopt the Fortaleza Action Plan.
71. Russia, India, China and South Africa extend their warm appreciation to the
Government and people of Brazil for hosting the Sixth BRICS Summit in
Fortaleza.
72. Brazil, India, China and South Africa convey their appreciation to Russia
for its offer to host the Seventh BRICS Summit in 2015 in the city of Ufa and
extend their full support to that end.
