At the 17th BRICS Summit, Belarus underlined its ambition to actively contribute towards a multipolar and digitally sovereign international order. In his address, Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov portrayed Belarus as a dedicated promoter of fair global governance, emphasizing digital rights, technological independence, and collaborative sustainable development.
Minister Ryzhenkov described BRICS as “not merely a coalition, but a strategic platform for the future,” underscoring the group’s potential in transforming the existing international landscape. He observed that the fading influence of a unipolar world highlights an urgent need for a new global system founded on mutual respect, equal partnership, and inclusive decision-making.
Belarus’s vision, according to the Minister, rests on three core pillars. First, financial independence was strongly emphasized, with Belarus expressing firm support for BRICS initiatives aimed at conducting trade transactions in national currencies and establishing independent payment infrastructures. These measures, Ryzhenkov argued, are essential in reducing dependence on existing dominant global financial institutions and systems.
Second, he conveyed Belarus’s explicit rejection of technological monopolies, criticizing what he termed “digital colonialism.” He affirmed every nation’s sovereign right to determine its own digital trajectory, underscoring the importance of protecting digital independence and preventing technological hegemonies from dominating the global digital sphere.
Third, Minister Ryzhenkov outlined innovative solutions intended to bolster financial and logistical sovereignty. He advocated for the integration of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and promoted the development of secure, independent channels for cross-border financial data exchanges. He further proposed harnessing new technologies—including blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI)—to establish advanced and resilient Eurasian logistics networks.
Reaffirming Belarus’s strong dedication to advancing this vision, the country has formally applied for membership in the BRICS New Development Bank. Belarus considers this move critical, highlighting the significant role the institution plays in financing and supporting collective infrastructure and developmental initiatives.
In conclusion, Minister Ryzhenkov stressed that Belarus is fully prepared to make substantial and practical contributions towards establishing a sovereign, balanced, and technologically advanced global order. He emphasized the importance of fostering an inclusive, fair international system resistant to economic exploitation and digital dominance.
