National Security Advisor Ajit Doval Attends Friends of BRICS Meeting in Johannesburg
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval participated in the Friends of BRICS meeting held in Johannesburg on 24th July 2023. The gathering focused on addressing the challenges posed by cyber security, given the rapid advancements in technologies like AI, Big Data, and the Internet of Things. The BRICS summit is scheduled for the next month, from 22nd August to 24th August, at the Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg, South Africa. The meeting, chaired by South African minister Khumbudzo Ntshaveni, saw the participation of Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev, Chinese diplomat Wang Yi, and NSAs of other member states.
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| National Security Advisor Ajit Doval attends Friends of BRICS meeting in Johannesburg |
The Importance of Cyber Security
In today's interconnected world, cyber security has become a critical concern for nations across the globe. With the increasing reliance on digital technologies, safeguarding sensitive information and infrastructure from cyber threats is of utmost importance. The Friends of BRICS meeting recognized the significance of collective efforts in addressing these challenges and protecting their respective nations' interests.
Shri Doval's Perspective
During the meeting, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval emphasized the need for unified action against cyber risks. He highlighted that the advent of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and the Internet of Things is bound to increase the severity and frequency of cyber threats. To counter these threats effectively, he urged the BRICS member states to collaborate and share their expertise in cyber security measures.
The Role of BRICS
BRICS, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is an association of five major emerging economies. The group seeks to enhance cooperation and partnership among its member states for mutual benefit. In the context of cyber security, the member countries recognize the value of joint efforts and knowledge sharing.
Expanding the BRICS Grouping
Apart from the core members, the Friends of BRICS meeting also welcomed representatives from several friendly countries, including Belarus, Burundi, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Cuba. These countries have expressed their interest in establishing closer ties with BRICS to explore new economic opportunities and contribute to the group's collective growth.
Algeria's Aspiration
Algeria, an African nation with growing economic potential, has also applied for membership in the BRICS group. The country aims to leverage this affiliation to open up new avenues for economic growth and development. As part of their membership application, Algeria has also expressed interest in becoming a shareholder member of the BRICS Bank, contributing an amount of US$1.5 billion to support the bank's initiatives.
Growing Interest in BRICS
The allure of BRICS membership has garnered interest from beyond its core group. More than 40 countries, including Argentina, Iran, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Cuba, Congo, Comoros, Gabon, and Kazakhstan, have expressed their desire to join the BRICS grouping. The increasing interest underscores the perceived benefits of being part of this influential association.
Conclusion
The Friends of BRICS meeting held in Johannesburg with the participation of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval highlighted the importance of addressing cyber security challenges collectively. As technologies continue to evolve, the need for robust cyber security measures becomes even more pressing. The BRICS member states and potential new entrants must collaborate and share expertise to safeguard their nations from cyber threats effectively.
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FAQs
1. What is BRICS?
BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – an association of major emerging economies.
2. Why is cyber security important for BRICS countries?
With the increasing reliance on digital technologies, cyber security is crucial to protect sensitive information and infrastructure from threats.
3. Which countries attended the Friends of BRICS meeting in Johannesburg?
Apart from the core members, representatives from friendly countries like Belarus, Burundi, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Kazakhstan, and Cuba were present.
4. Why does Algeria want to join BRICS?
Algeria aims to explore new economic opportunities and growth prospects through its BRICS membership.
5. How many countries are interested in joining BRICS?
Over 40 countries, including Argentina, Iran, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Cuba, Congo, Comoros, Gabon, and Kazakhstan, have expressed their interest in joining BRICS.
