BRICS sign memorandum of understanding on youth policy

A memorandum of understanding and cooperation on youth policy within BRICS has been signed in Kazan. It outlines short-term cooperation priorities, the head of Russia's Federal Agency for Youth Affairs, Sergei Pospelov, told RIA Novosti.

He noted that the document will be submitted to BRICS leaders at the Ufa Summit.

Specifically, the memorandum sets forth a number of specific steps aimed at promoting scientific cooperation between the five countries, including the creation of a system of research institutions, the development of technology parks, and the organisation of exhibitions on research-related subjects. The document also floats the idea of having the five BRICS countries create a joint space station. "Working together on a space station for exploring outer space and carrying out manned programmes could become a symbol of the new world order based on BRICS values," the memorandum reads.The document lays a particular emphasis on the need to counter terrorism, cyber threats and drug trafficking.It also contains proposals on the creation of a single rating agency within BRICS to ensure that securities ratings are fair and independent. This institution could be part of a merger of the existing national rating agencies or a new body that would be co-owned by the BRICS countries.

The memorandum also outlines steps for strengthening cooperation in culture and civic oversight.

The signing ceremony was held during a meeting hosted by the acting head of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov. Taking part in the event, apart from Sergei Pospelov, were Brazil's National Secretary for Youth Affairs Gabriel Medina de Toledo, Secretary of India's Department of Youth Affairs of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Shri Rajeev Gupta, Vice President of the All-China Youth Federation Zhou Changkui, and Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Planning Monitoring and Evaluation in South Africa, Manamela Buti.

"As representatives of the youth of our countries, today we signed this international legal document to formalise our relations. Our memorandum sets forth an action plan that will provide guidelines for cooperation within the BRICS youth dimension," Sergei Pospelov said ahead of the signing ceremony.

Gabriel Medina de Toledo noted that the five BRICS countries were creating new geopolitical realities in today's world based on the principles of justice and equality. "By initiating and developing partnerships through communication we are able not only to exchange experience, but also improve the economies of our countries, the quality of life for our people and, above all, the young people," he said during the meeting.

Shri Rajeev Gupta, Secretary of India's Department of Youth Affairs of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, pointed out that the Kazan Summit provided youth representatives from the five countries an opportunity to discuss prospects and projects for economic, scientific and technology cooperation.