Jaipur, Aug 6 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Thursday expressed confidence that the BRICS Industry and Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Jaipur would strengthen international cooperation and open new avenues for investment and industrial growth in the state.
Sharma attended a cultural programme and dinner hosted in honour of ministers and delegates from BRICS countries visiting Jaipur for the meeting.
Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari and Industries and Commerce Minister Col. Rajyavardhan Rathore were also present, along with senior representatives from BRICS member nations.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal welcomed delegates, describing Jaipur as a city blending centuries-old craftsmanship with modern industrial aspirations. He said BRICS countries must convert shared aspirations into practical innovation and cooperation by leveraging complementary strengths to build resilient and self-reliant industries. He added that PartNIR has emerged as the primary platform for advancing such cooperation.
Recalling that the BRICS journey began with the first summit in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in 2009, Goyal acknowledged Brazil’s leadership during its 2025 presidency and reaffirmed India’s commitment to taking the partnership forward through a pragmatic approach. He said India’s presidency aims to promote trust among businesses, investors and innovators while delivering tangible outcomes for all member nations.
The minister highlighted progress made under PartNIR during India’s presidency and outlined outcomes across four priority areas. Key decisions included finalisation of the cooperation framework for the BRICS SME Working Group, adoption of the Terms of Reference and Work Plan for the BRICS Working Group on the Photovoltaic Industry, approval of an action plan to promote innovation-led growth through startups and emphasis on strengthening transport and logistics networks, including GIS-based infrastructure planning and city logistics systems.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Sharma said it was a matter of pride for Rajasthan to host the BRICS Industry and Trade Ministers’ Meeting. He expressed confidence that the event would strengthen international cooperation and create new opportunities for investment and industrial growth.
The visiting delegates were welcomed with traditional Rajasthani hospitality and a cultural programme showcasing the state’s rich heritage. The meeting is being held in Jaipur on August 6 and 7, bringing together ministers and officials from BRICS member countries to discuss trade, industry and economic cooperation.
Earlier in the day, Sharma was in Delhi where he met several Union ministers, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, to discuss crucial matters related to Rajasthan’s development.
–IANS
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