Policy makers and experts from several countries speaking at the Doha Forum 2023 highlighted the potential of the BRICS group to establish trade and investment alliances, fostering economic and social development in a multipolar world.

In a session on ‘BRICS Rising Influence in a Multipolar International Order’, panellists debated where the strengths of the new BRICS alliance lie, and how they can work together to continue their influential position in the global order.

BRICS has long represented an influential and unique coalition of major emerging economies, providing leadership on the global stage without being classified as traditional superpowers. This year, BRICS announced the expansion of six more countries.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka H E Ali Sabri emphasised that BRICS signifies a cooperative platform and highlighted its potential to enhance trade and industry in a more pluralistic world.

He also expressed optimism about the group’s capacity to form an alliance grounded in consensus and cooperation.

Minister Sabri said, “For too long a period of time, too little countries have had too large influence over too many people. Therefore, there is a growing group of people who want more equity, more justice, and to improve the world order.”

“…Things have changed in the recent past. China’s economy has grown, and the BRICS economies have grown and the middle partners are emerging. So, instead of one group controlling the entire narrative—whether political, defence, security, economy, or monetary management of the world—people are seeking for alternatives,” he said, adding that it is the only way to break the existing hegemony.

Speaking at the session State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, H E Mesganu Arga Moach emphasized the importance of the BRICS group emerging not as hostile to the Western system but as a new bloc seeking economic and investment development to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of its people. He highlighted the group’s pursuit of reform, economic fairness, and political inclusiveness, advocating for better representation given their high population density and significant economic growth.

Another panelist, Chair of Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center Advisory Council, Erika Mounyes focused on the core idea of the BRICS group, centered on creating trade and investment alliances to enhance economic and social development opportunities on a global scale.

Vice-President, CCG, Chair Professor, Soochow University, Victor Gao sharing his views said, “In the world of today, differences and diversities should not be the problem - it should be a fact - and it should be what will unite us to gain greater strengths. The fact that both the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Iran are both members of BRICS should indicate to all of us that BRICS is a framework for unity.”

The Peninsula Qatar