Abdullah Bin Zayed Highlights Global Cooperation At BRICS+ Summit In Kazan, Russia
H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, participated in the BRICS+ Summit in Kazan, Russia, from 22nd to 24th October 2024. The summit was opened by Russian President Vladimir Putin and included leaders and representatives from around 38 countries.
During his address at the BRICS+ Summit, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah conveyed greetings from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He expressed gratitude to President Putin and the Russian Chairmanship for hosting this year's event. "We appreciate these efforts that seek to enhance international dialogue at a time when we need collective action to address global challenges and join hands to build a better world," he stated.
Sheikh Abdullah highlighted that BRICS is not solely about economic collaboration but represents a model for multidimensional partnerships. He explained that through this platform, nations can share experiences and achieve common progress. The UAE prioritises international cooperation in its policies, believing true partnerships are based on shared interests and mutual respect.
The UAE diplomat emphasised the importance of collective action with the Friends of BRICS to create a more stable future. He noted that today's world faces significant changes impacting all nations, regardless of their economic size or location. These include sudden economic shifts, climate change acceleration, energy sector challenges, and growing conflicts.
Sheikh Abdullah stressed the need for constructive solutions within the BRICS framework, which upholds the United Nations Charter as a basis for international cooperation. He asserted that maintaining global peace is essential for addressing shared challenges and ending suffering in conflict zones.
"Based on this principle, we call for an immediate and permanent end to the fighting in Gaza," Sheikh Abdullah remarked. He advocated for humanitarian aid delivery and a political process based on peaceful coexistence and relevant resolutions.
Expanding Cooperation with Global Partners
The UAE's top diplomat reiterated support for international efforts aimed at de-escalation in Lebanon and addressing humanitarian crises. He condemned violations of international law and UN Security Council resolutions.
Sheikh Abdullah outlined discussions on strengthening cooperation with "Friends of BRICS" across various fields like trade, investment, energy transition, sustainability, transport, water, and food security. This collaboration aims to tackle global challenges effectively while fostering inclusive economic growth.
The Role of Emerging Economies
The UAE sees expanding partnerships as an opportunity to develop innovative strategies that facilitate expertise exchange for mutual benefit. "In today's world, multilateralism is not an option but a necessity," he said, noting it as foundational for stability and growth.
He acknowledged emerging economies' role in shaping the global economy's future. The UAE believes Global South countries should be active partners in economic decision-making processes.
Promoting Sustainable Development
The UAE seeks to promote open collaboration through its participation in BRICS activities. Sheikh Abdullah explained that building partnerships contributes to achieving shared goals and sustainable development.
"We will continue to support BRICS' plans for expansion," he added. The UAE aims to boost engagement with friendly countries while promoting a sustainable institutional model supporting reforms.
His Highness thanked President Putin and Russia for their hospitality during the summit. He expressed hope that its outcomes would strengthen cooperation among BRICS nations.
Accompanying Sheikh Abdullah were Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh; Saeed Mubarak Al-Hajeri; Dr Mohammed Ahmed bin Sultan Al Jaber; and Khamis Rashid Al Shamsi at the summit.
With inputs from WAM

