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The Observer Research Foundation (ORF), in partnership with the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and the University of Lucknow, is convening the 18th BRICS Academic Forum in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, from August 23-25, as part of India's BRICS Presidency.
Held under the theme, "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability," the Forum will bring together academics, researchers, experts and policymakers from BRICS countries to discuss key global challenges and explore practical, policy-relevant pathways for strengthening cooperation. The 18th edition comes as BRICS marks 20 years of cooperation, providing an opportunity to reflect on the grouping's evolution and explore its next phase. Discussions will focus on building resilience, advancing innovation, scaling sustainable development, strengthening cooperation on emerging technologies and contributing to the reform of global governance. A key highlight of the Forum will be a Sherpa's Address by Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (ER) and BRICS Sherpa, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. Over the course of the Forum, participants will examine ways to strengthen resilience across economic, social, health and climate systems; foster innovation through greater cooperation on startups, MSMEs, science, technology and talent; and advance sustainable development through green and transition finance, resilient infrastructure and energy systems. Discussions will also explore cooperation on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and digital public infrastructure, alongside conversations on skilling, digital security and responsible technology governance. As BRICS enters its next phase, participants will consider practical approaches to reforming global financial, trade and multilateral institutions, while examining the evolving role of BRICS institutions, including the New Development Bank. Discussions will also highlight the importance of culture, education, skilling and people-to-people exchanges in building deeper trust and long-term cooperation. The programme will include the launch of the Forum's compendium, BRICS: Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability, and the official presentation of the BRICS Think Tanks Council (BTTC) Recommendations to representatives of the Ministry of External Affairs. Through its deliberations, the 18th BRICS Academic Forum aims to generate research-based, policy-relevant recommendations that can contribute to the BRICS agenda and inform discussions under India's BRICS Presidency. (ANI)
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