(By Observer News, Xu Zhe, Rio de Janeiro) On July 5 local time, the BRICS Business Forum was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Senior officials and business leaders from BRICS countries gathered together to focus on a series of topics including international trade and food security, energy transition and decarbonization, digital economy and skills development, as well as financing and financial inclusion.

President Lula of Brazil, the rotating chair of the BRICS, emphasized in his opening speech that the BRICS cooperation mechanism has made significant contributions to global economic development and the multilateral system. Lula stated that the total GDP of the 11 official member states of BRICS has exceeded 40% of the world's GDP. In the past year, global economic growth was 3.3%, while the BRICS countries achieved an average growth of 4%. Lula pointed out, "As the number of partner and invited countries increases, the BRICS is becoming a hub connecting prosperous and dynamic economies."

Lula reviewed the contributions of the BRICS countries to the implementation of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, as well as other progress made in strengthening global food security. "Rural credit, promotion of low-carbon agriculture, and restoration of degraded land have enhanced our ability to produce food for the world. The BRICS countries are crucial for the establishment of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty. Strengthening the health industry complex can expand access to medicines, which is essential to overcoming socially determined diseases that affect the most vulnerable groups."

Additionally, Lula once again called for peace. "Ending the accumulating wars and conflicts is one of the responsibilities of heads of state and government leaders. We promote integration, not create obstacles," Lula pointed out.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, in his opening speech, echoed Lula's vision of strengthening South-South cooperation and once again called on the BRICS countries to oppose protectionism and tariff barriers, representing the Global South countries in advocating multilateralism, promoting fairness and justice, clearly stating their positions and taking action. In recent years, the BRICS countries have made important progress in areas such as aviation, artificial intelligence, and food technology, and believe that the BRICS cooperation mechanism will play an increasingly important role.

Alckmin, Vice President of Brazil and Minister of Development, Industry and Trade, said in his speech that the BRICS Business Forum helps promote mutual investment, strengthen trade relations, and drive cooperative innovation and common development.

Original: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7524550318709965362/

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