The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a step toward closer collaboration with the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) by participating in a recent meeting of the drafting committee for the upcoming 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum. This development signifies a growing interest in expanding the forum's reach beyond its core members.
The meeting, hosted by the Federation Council of Russia, served as a platform for representatives from BRICS countries, along with invited guests from the UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and South Africa, to discuss the agenda and format for the St. Petersburg forum scheduled for July 11-12, 2024.
Konstantin Kosachev, Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council, emphasized the evolving role of parliamentary cooperation within the BRICS framework. He highlighted the collaborative efforts underway to prepare for the 10th forum, including the appointment of designated representatives from each BRICS nation to oversee the joint development of the agenda and draft concluding documents.
The UAE's inclusion in these discussions reflects the country's strategic positioning as a vital economic and political player, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa region. The BRICS nations, collectively representing a significant portion of the global population and economic output, have been increasingly vocal on the international stage, advocating for a multipolar world order and a more equitable distribution of global influence.
The UAE's participation in the BRICS parliamentary forum discussions could pave the way for future cooperation on various fronts. Potential areas of collaboration include trade and investment, energy security, technological innovation, and sustainable development. The forum could serve as a springboard for knowledge exchange, joint ventures, and the exploration of new avenues for economic and political engagement.
While the UAE is not currently a member of the BRICS grouping, its involvement in the drafting committee deliberations suggests a burgeoning interest in fostering closer ties with the bloc. This strategic move by the UAE could be driven by a desire to diversify its economic partnerships, navigate the complexities of a multipolar world, and potentially leverage the BRICS platform to amplify its voice on the global stage.
The 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, with its expanded format, is poised to be a significant event, fostering dialogue and collaboration not just among the core member states but also with invited guests like the UAE. The forum's discussions and outcomes will be closely watched by the international community, as they may provide insights into the evolving dynamics of global governance and the potential for broader cooperation among emerging economies.