The BRICS Sherpa and Sous-Sherpa meetings concluded with a high-level session chaired by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who outlined Brazil’s key priorities for the bloc, including global health cooperation, AI governance, economic and financial reforms, climate finance, and strengthening South-South collaboration.
Lula emphasized that BRICS nations bear a major responsibility in upholding a UN-centered multilateral order.
Ethiopia, participating in six thematic sessions, reaffirmed its commitment to multilateralism, collective security, and sustainable development.
On global health, Ethiopia called on BRICS countries to step up efforts to address critical infrastructure gaps that expose nations to public health risks.
Regarding trade and economic cooperation, Addis Ababa stressed the need to place development at the core of BRICS engagement by ensuring predictable market access, mobilizing development financing, closing infrastructure gaps, and attracting sustainable investment.
On climate change, Ethiopia highlighted its initiatives, including the Green Legacy program and efforts to phase out fossil fuels. It urged BRICS members to lead by example in fully implementing commitments under the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.
In the field of artificial intelligence, Ethiopia called for capacity-building support for developing nations and improved AI governance aligned with the UN Global Digital Compact.
Ethiopia reiterated its commitment to strengthening BRICS and voiced support for a more inclusive and representative grouping.
On the sidelines of the summit, Ethiopian Central Bank Governor Mamo Mihretu held discussions with Sherpas from Brazil, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa, India, and the UAE. Talks focused on aligning national priorities, enhancing policy coordination, and boosting bilateral cooperation.
