The Rio 2025 Declaration, issued at the conclusion of the 17th BRICS Summit in Brazil, adopted a specific and strong emphasis on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) cooperation among the expanded ten-member bloc. This strategic focus signals that BRICS is evolving beyond traditional commodity trade and geopolitical alignment, aiming instead to establish itself as a significant technological force capable of setting standards and defining global governance in emerging fields.
Key priorities outlined in the declaration include intensive collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum technologies, deep-sea research, and cybersecurity/submarine cables. The commitment to AI collaboration is particularly significant, building on the earlier BRICS Leaders’ Statement on the Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence. Furthermore, the declaration mandated the expansion of the BRICS STI Framework Programme to include the new members and create joint funding calls for projects in these strategic sectors.
This coordinated push is essential for leveraging the complementary strengths of member nations—such as India’s IT and space capabilities, China’s manufacturing and AI scale, and Brazil’s deep-sea expertise. By jointly investing in these high-tech domains, BRICS aims to create a shared innovation ecosystem, reduce technological dependency on traditional Western powers, and ensure the Global South plays a defining role in shaping the future of technology and its governance.
