Challenges from Covid-19 pandemic offer BRICS countries an opportunity to come together to have a united fight against the deadly virus

Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr Harsh Vardhan said multilateral cooperation is required to overcome challenges posed by Covid-19 pandemic.

“The COVID 19 pandemic has been a test, demonstrating that multilateral cooperation is the key to overcoming such global challenges,” the Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said while participating at BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation Ministers’ virtual meet on Friday.

“Since we are one of the most affected populations from this pandemic, it provides for greater cooperation opportunities among BRICS countries to combat this pandemic,” Dr Harsh Vardhan added.

“We recognize the importance of engaging with BRICS countries in order to foster dialogue and mutual knowledge sharing, capacity building, cross-incubation with a broad view to advancing BRICS systems of innovation”: Dr. Harsh Vardhan maintained

He informed the participants that “India has initiated an integrated response to overcome this unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. From the development of indigenous vaccines, novel point-of-care diagnostics and therapeutic formulations based on traditional knowledge, to establish research resources and offering services, Indian R & D entities both public and private, are working relentlessly to develop effective interventions for combating the pandemic. Hundreds of projects are being supported. More than 100 startups have developed innovative products for COVID-19”.

Pointing out that “Innovation for inclusive development finds significant mention in the Declaration”, Dr. Harsh Vardhan said,” We recognize the importance of engaging with BRICS countries in order to foster dialogue and mutual knowledge sharing, capacity building, cross-incubation with a broad view to advancing BRICS systems of innovation”.

During the meet, BRICS Science Ministers unanimously adopted BRICS STI Declaration 2020 and Calendar of BRICS STI Activities 2020-21.