Bio Threats and Pathogens the BRICS Response: From Ebola to COVID-19
On 18-19 July 2024, the International Conference ‘Bio-Threats and Pathogens. BRICS Response’ took place in Moscow, bringing together 140 delegates from BRICS countries to discuss the pressing issue of global public health. The event was opened by Rospotrebnadzor Head Anna Popova, who emphasized the importance of cooperation in combating bio-threats and pathogens. Moreover, she recalled the first BRICS conference in 2015, which laid the foundation for cooperation within BRICS on global public health issues caused by infections.
Since then, significant progress has been made
BRICS has achieved remarkable success in tackling pandemics, including the Ebola outbreak in West Africa and COVID-19. Since 2015, BRICS leaders’ declarations have consistently highlighted this collaborative effort. Popova emphasized that shared bonds and a unified understanding of Bio Threats have strengthened BRICS’ response to health crises. Moreover, the willingness to cooperate enabled BRICS to effectively combat the spread of COVID-19. This collective approach has proven crucial in addressing biological hazards and containing dangerous Pathogens. Consequently, BRICS continues to play a vital role in global health security, leveraging its combined expertise and resources.
The BRICS Advantage: Science and Innovation
BRICS nations house prestigious research institutions where scientists produce numerous publications on epidemiology, microbiology, and biotechnology annually. Furthermore, the groundbreaking work of BRICS specialists has widespread applications in various fields. Notably, BRICS member countries hold over a quarter of global biotechnology patent registrations. Additionally, these nations account for more than 35% of pharmaceutical patents worldwide. Moreover, BRICS countries possess around 18% of registered medical technology patents. This collective expertise positions BRICS nations at the forefront of addressing Bio Threats and combating dangerous Pathogens. Consequently, their collaborative efforts are crucial in developing innovative solutions to global health challenges.
Global Health Security: A Collective Responsibility
Sergey Ryabkov, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister and BRICS Sherpa, highlighted the necessity of global cooperation in healthcare. He stressed the urgent need for innovative solutions to tackle emerging biosecurity threats. Ryabkov pointed out that critical biosecurity issues are on the agenda and will be addressed innovatively. Additionally, BRICS representatives shared their healthcare and global health security experiences, underscoring the importance of enhanced collaboration within the association. This cooperation is vital to effectively manage Bio Threats and ensure robust responses to Pathogens.
The Future of Biosecurity: A BRICS-Led Initiative
As the world continues to face significant biosecurity threats, the BRICS conference serves as a crucial step towards a unified response. By leveraging their collective strength in science, innovation, and cooperation, BRICS countries can overcome the challenges of pandemics and bio-threats, paving the way for a safer and healthier world. In conclusion, the BRICS conference demonstrates the association’s commitment to addressing global public health issues and promoting biosecurity.
The Roscongress Foundation manages the events of Russia’s BRICS Chairship.