July
15, 2014
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. Our shared views and commitment to international law and to
multilateralism, with the United Nations at its center and foundation, are
widely recognized and constitute a major contribution to global peace, economic
stability, social inclusion, equality, sustainable development and mutually
beneficial cooperation with all countries.
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. In this sense, we are ready to explore new areas towards a
comprehensive cooperation and a closer economic partnership to facilitate
market inter-linkages, financial integration, infrastructure connectivity as
well as people-to-people contacts.
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. We believe the BRICS are an
important force for incremental change and reform of current institutions
towards more representative and equitable governance, capable of generating
more inclusive global growth and fostering a stable, peaceful and prosperous
world.
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. Our economic
growth and social inclusion policies have helped to stabilize global economy,
to foster the creation of jobs, to reduce poverty, and to combat inequality,
thus contributing to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. 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.
Unemployment and debt levels are worryingly high and growth remains weak in
many advanced economies. Emerging market economies and developing countries
(EMDCs) continue to contribute significantly to global growth and will do so in
the years to come. Even as the global economy strengthens, monetary policy
settings in some advanced economies may bring renewed stress and volatility to
financial markets and changes in monetary stance need to be carefully
calibrated and clearly communicated in order to minimize negative spillovers.
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. The BRICS stand ready to contribute to the G20 goal of
lifting our collective GDP by more than 2 percent above the trajectory implied
by current policies over the coming 5 years.
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. We will
continue to pursue our fruitful coordination and to promote our development
goals within the international economic system and financial architecture.
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. Given the importance of
adopting innovation initiatives, we welcome the conclusion of the Cooperation
Agreement on Innovation within the BRICS Interbank Cooperation Mechanism.
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. We direct our relevant authorities to explore ways of enhancing
cooperation in this area. We also direct our relevant authorities to strengthen
cooperation in the field of customs.
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. In this sense, we call for an international financial
architecture that is more conducive to overcoming development challenges. We
have been very active in improving the international financial architecture
through our multilateral coordination and through our financial cooperation
initiatives, which will, in a complementary manner, increase the diversity and
availability of resources for promoting development and ensuring stability in
the global economy.
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. Based on the documents tabled and
informed by the input of the BRICS Think Tanks Council (BTTC), we instruct our
Sherpas to advance discussions with a view to submit their proposal for
endorsement by the next BRICS Summit.
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. In
reaffirming our support for an open, inclusive, non-discriminatory, transparent
and rule-based multilateral trading system, we will continue our efforts
towards the successful conclusion of the Doha Round of the World Trade
Organization (WTO), following the positive results of the Ninth Ministerial
Conference (MC9), held in Bali, Indonesia, in December 2013. In this context,
we reaffirm our commitment to establish by the end of this year a post-Bali
work program for concluding the Doha Round, based on the progress already made
and in keeping with the mandate established in the Doha Development Agenda. We
affirm that this work program should prioritize the issues where legally
binding outcomes could not be achieved at MC9, including Public Stock-Holding
for Food Security Purposes. 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. We will enhance cooperation and
recognize the need for strengthening intra-BRICS dialogue with a view to
promote international exchange and cooperation and to foster innovation,
research and development.
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 recognize practical steps undertaken by the Syrian
parties in implementing its requirements, including the practice of local
cease-fire agreements reached between the Syrian authorities and the opposition
forces.
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. We recognize Iran's inalienable right to the peaceful use of
nuclear energy in a manner consistent with its international obligations.
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.
Fortaleza
Action Plan
1.
Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs / International Relations on the
margins of UN General Assembly.
2.
Meeting of BRICS National Security Advisors.
3.
Mid-term meeting of BRICS Sherpas and Sous-Sherpas.
4.
Meetings of BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors on the margins
of G20 meetings, WB/IMF meetings, as well as stand-alone meetings, as required.
5.
Meetings of BRICS Trade Ministers on the margin of multilateral events, or
stand-alone meetings, as required.
6.
Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Agriculture and Agrarian Development, preceded by
the Meeting of BRICS Agricultural Cooperation Working Group.
7.
Meeting of BRICS Health Ministers.
8.
Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Science, Technology and Innovation.
9.
Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Education.
10.
Meeting of Ministers or Senior Officials responsible for social security, on
the margins of a multilateral meeting.
11.
BRICS Seminar of Officials and Experts on Population Matters.
12.
Meeting of BRICS Cooperatives (held in Curitiba on 14-16 May 2014).
13.
Meetings of financial and fiscal authorities on the margins of WB/IMF meetings
as well as stand-alone meetings, as required.
14.
Meetings of the BRICS Contact Group on Economic and Trade Issues (CGETI).
15.
Meeting of the BRICS Friendship Cities and Local Governments Cooperation Forum.
16.
Meeting of the BRICS Urbanization Forum.
17.
Meeting of BRICS Competition Authorities in 2015 in South Africa.
18.
Meeting of BRICS Heads of National Statistical Institutions.
19.
Meeting of Anti-Drug Experts.
20.
Meeting of BRICS Experts on Anti-corruption cooperation, on the margins of a
multilateral meeting
21.
Consultations amongst BRICS Permanent Missions and/or Embassies, as
appropriate, in New York, Vienna, Rome, Paris, Washington, Nairobi and Geneva,
where appropriate.
22.
Consultative meeting of BRICS Senior Officials on the margins of relevant
sustainable development, environment and climate related international fora,
where appropriate.
23.
Sports and Mega Sporting Events.
New
areas of cooperation to be explored
-
Mutual recognition of Higher Education Degrees and Diplomas;
-
Labor and Employment, Social Security, Social Inclusion Public Policies;
-
Foreign Policy Planning Dialogue;
-
Insurance and reinsurance;
-
Seminar of Experts on E-commerce.
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SH