About the Seminar
This joint seminar between Himalayan Development Affairs Council and Russian House represents an important opportunity to engage with critical issues facing the Global South within the context of BRICS by inviting larger part of the world in the discussion. By combining physical attendance with virtual participation, it aim to maximize reach and impact while ensuring that diverse voices contribute to this vital discourse. Together, it can contribute to a deeper understanding of multipolarity’s implications for developing nations in the contemporary world order. Distinguished 14 panel of experts and academicians from RUSSIA, CHINA, INDIA, NEPAL, BANGLADESH, PAKISTAN and ENGLAND across various universities and organizations, it is a commendable fact that all respected thirteen individuals bring a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives to our session.
Each of our experts has been selected for their expertise in international law and relations, policy studies, global governance, and similar expertise ensuring that our discussions are informed, insightful, and comprehensive. This contributions undoubtedly enrich understanding of the pragmatic dynamics at play between BRICS and South Asia.
Program Overview
Introduction
The BRICS discourse, hosted by Kathmandu School of Law, commenced with an introductory speech by Mr. Kshitiz Parajuli. He welcomed all distinguished guests, diplomats, discourse experts, organizers, and supporters. His speech provided an overview of BRICS and its cooperation with Asian and South Asian countries, including China.
Following the introduction, Prof. Dr. Yubaraj Sangroula, the moderator of the discourse, formally introduced all the speakers. He contextualized the significance of the discourse in relation to Nepal and the South Asian region. Dr. Sangroula emphasized that BRICS initiatives are poised to foster new economic partnerships and development models that are not hegemonic in nature. He then invited the first speaker, Dr. Valleria Gorbacheva, to begin her presentation.
Speaker Presentations
Dr. Valleria Gorbacheva (Russia)
Dr. Valleria began with a brief history and operational overview of BRICS. She highlighted its evolution beyond an economic and trading bloc, now encompassing areas such as sustainable development, security, economy, and science and technology. BRICS, she noted, has partnered with over 56 universities and supports the operation of BRICS International Schools. She also mentioned ongoing developments in tourism, including proposals for a BRICS Travel Card. Dr. Valleria concluded by emphasizing BRICS’ role in promoting multipolarity in global governance.
Dr. Ananya Sharma
Dr. Sharma discussed the relevance of current trends in international politics, referencing theorists like James Rosenau. She argued that global politics often resembles a ladder of status and influence, where many developing nations remain inactive. She cautioned against nations joining BRICS merely for recognition, advocating instead for a deeper alignment with BRICS’ core objectives. She stressed the importance of understanding BRICS’ liminal period, enhancing diplomatic tracks, and pursuing a liberal and parallel international order rather than one defined by subjugation.
Advocate Dileep Doshi (Pakistan)
Adv. Doshi examined how BRICS presents opportunities for financially unstable countries, contrasting it with donor-driven initiatives that often lack transparency. He emphasized the significance of the BRICS Development Bank as a platform offering assistance without hegemonic conditions. Regarding Nepal, he underlined its geopolitical position between India and China, suggesting that it could play a pivotal role in BRICS dialogues and diplomatic exchanges.
Md. Mostafa Hosain (Bangladesh)
Mr. Hosain described BRICS as a strategic outlet for bypassing trade barriers and navigating shifting U.S. policies post-President Donald Trump’s election. He advocated for the promotion of economic, social, and cultural rights within BRICS’ agendas to foster collective development. He further emphasized South Asia’s internal cohesion, suggesting that BRICS can act as a unifying force in the region.
Dr. Noor Mohammad Sarker
Dr. Sarker characterized BRICS as a major political force redefining international relations through inter-regional alignment. He highlighted its alternative economic models that challenge the dominance of the U.S. dollar, promoting economic de-dollarization. He praised BRICS for supporting multilateralism and balancing global power structures.
Mr. Pawan Kumar (India)
Mr. Kumar positioned BRICS as a challenge to unipolar dominance, noting its commitment to multilateralism and people-to-people exchanges. Referencing the recent Kazan Summit, he stressed the importance of geopolitical solidarity, climate justice, and rule of law. He urged BRICS to further promote international legal standards.
Mr. Rachit Murarka (Nepal)
Mr. Murarka acknowledged that BRICS has successfully brought China and India—despite their differences—onto a common platform. He called for the promotion of refugee rights and a move away from protectionist policies. He criticized the validation of economic models solely through Western perspectives and highlighted the tangible economic resources within BRICS.
Mr. Cristian Wagner (Germany)
Mr. Wagner emphasized the importance of public opinion in shaping BRICS’ narrative. He encouraged deeper discussions on bio-western technologies and their ethical alternatives. He stressed poverty elimination as a central goal of multipolar efforts and urged BRICS to promote inclusive, reality-based policies in international relations.
Mr. Zhang Shubin (China)
Mr. Zhang focused on the need for an alternative payment system and the creation of a common BRICS currency. He acknowledged existing geopolitical rivalries within BRICS but advocated for expanding cooperation. He emphasized China’s role in promoting international friendship, eco-technology, and sustainability.
Mr. Ernest E. Novinskii (Russia)
Mr. Novinskii advocated for deeper BRICS engagement, pointing out how BRICS collaboration has mitigated the effects of Western sanctions on Russia. He praised the bloc’s growing diverse membership, emphasizing BRICS’ flexibility in adapting to global developments.
Dr. Zeeshan Hashim (United Kingdom)
Dr. Hashim reflected on the rule-based world order, critiquing the rise of protectionism and hard power in global politics. He warned of challenges posed by dominant powers that undermine the sovereignty of small nations. He stressed the need for synergy between small and large nations through diplomacy. In relation to BRICS, he envisioned a liberal, multipolar, and rule-based international order, facilitated by shared connectivity and cooperative engagement.
Conclusion
The discourse on BRICS and its cooperation with Asian and South Asian nations provided a dynamic platform for diverse perspectives. It highlighted the bloc’s potential in redefining global power structures, promoting sustainable development, and fostering inclusive growth. The session brought to light the significance of diplomatic engagement, economic alternatives, and collective values, offering valuable insights for Nepal and the wider South Asian region in navigating the future of international relations.
Recommendations for Strengthening BRICS–South Asia Engagement
- Deepen Regional Dialogue Through Multilateral Platforms
- Facilitate structured engagement between BRICS and South Asian nations to promote policy coherence and shared economic goals.
- Establish annual thematic discourses or policy forums that align South Asia’s development aspirations with BRICS cooperation frameworks.
- Expand Academic and Institutional Collaboration
- Encourage partnerships between BRICS universities and South Asian academic institutions to promote joint research, innovation, and capacity-building.
- Integrate BRICS International Schools and training programs into South Asian educational systems through memoranda of understanding (MoUs).
- Enhance Sectoral Integration for Sustainable Development
- Promote cooperation in key sectors including green technology, renewable energy, climate resilience, digital infrastructure, and smart agriculture.
- Align South Asian national development strategies with BRICS’ sectoral initiatives under the New Development Bank and BRICS Economic Partnership Strategy.
- Accelerate Financial and Technological Connectivity
- Support initiatives such as the BRICS Common Payment System and digital financial instruments for enhancing trade and investment linkages.
- Facilitate access to BRICS Development Bank financing for infrastructure, innovation, and SME development in South Asian countries.
- Engage Youth, Cultural and People-to-People Exchange
- Establish regional platforms for youth leadership programs, cultural exchange, and student fellowships under BRICS collaboration.
- Integrate cross-border academic competitions, entrepreneurship summits, and internship exchanges.
- Institutionalize a Permanent South Asia–BRICS Liaison Mechanism
- Develop a dedicated liaison or secretariat to coordinate BRICS cooperation activities within the South Asian region and track progress on mutual initiatives.
- Encourage government think tanks and policy institutions to lead regional consultation frameworks.