The event seeks to consolidate an international alliance for a new health agenda.

On Wednesday, participants in the 11th BRICS Parliamentary Forum reaffirmed the need for a multilateral agreement among the bloc’s countries to jointly address future pandemics.

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They aim to strengthen epidemic prevention and control, promote equitable access to vaccines, and establish a model of cooperation based on solidarity. The meeting is part of lawmakers’ efforts to consolidate a BRICS interparliamentary alliance for a new global health agenda.

“The COVID-19 pandemic reminded us that the virus that kills here also kills anywhere in the world, just like other infectious diseases, cancer, cardiovascular diseases and, unfortunately, hunger,” said Brazilian Federal Senate President Davi Alcolumbre.

“So, why not join forces for the health of our people? I see no reason not to. I believe we must and we can,” he stressed during the meeting held in Brasilia.

The text reads, “On Wednesday night, the Congress building projected images of the flags of the participating countries and topics under discussion at the 11th BRICS – Brazil 2025 Parliamentary Forum. The event takes place at the National Congress from June 3 to 5.”

Patent Exemptions

Poobalan Govender, a member of South Africa’s National Council of Provinces, noted that his country had worked with the World Trade Organization (WTO) to waive patents for local vaccines, allowing the population to access them quickly and at affordable prices.

“COVID-19 reminded us that in an interconnected and globalized world, no one is safe until everyone is. The BRICS parliamentary alliance gives us the opportunity to strengthen preparedness and response to pandemics. Cooperation between countries will have implications for ensuring fair and equitable vaccination as a global public good,” he said.

Early Warning System

Inna Svyatenko, deputy chair of the Russian Federation Council, emphasized the importance of an “Integrated Early Warning System for Massive Infectious Diseases,” a tool enshrined in the final declaration of the most recent BRICS summit held in Russia in 2024. The mechanism aims to provide early warning of potential health crises, ensuring coordinated action among the 11 BRICS countries.

“Russia has initiated efforts within the bloc to develop a comprehensive early warning system to combat communicable diseases. This system will enable the creation of a unified mechanism to eliminate outbreaks of infectious diseases and will include training and workshops for health professionals,” she explained.

Harivansh Narayan Singh, of the upper house of India’s Parliament, expressed support for multilateral cooperation to fight diseases that affect low-income populations, such as malaria and dengue. He said India aims to achieve universal health coverage and has already reduced the cost of healthcare services for 125 million families.

“There are several key health determinants, and we know that neglected tropical diseases especially impact low- and middle-income countries. We had already discussed this at the WHO, and it represented an important milestone for our country,” he said.

The text reads: “Politicians from Russia, India, China, and South Africa spoke during the second day of the BRICS Forum. This week, representatives from 15 countries participated in the opening of the 11th BRICS Parliamentary Forum, held at the National Congress in Brasilia. In addition to the bloc’s permanent members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—delegations from partner countries such as Cuba, Bolivia, Egypt, and Indonesia were also present.”

Solidarity Among Peoples

Mohammad Rashidi, of Iran’s Islamic Consultative Assembly, said that health cooperation should be a point of convergence between countries. “We must develop a new multilateral health model based on solidarity, justice, and open knowledge. This model can be achieved through a global fund or medical alliance, along with technology exchange,” he emphasized.

Cuba, known for its notable work in international health cooperation, was represented by Alberto Nuñez Betancourt, a member of the National Assembly.

“Health and well-being should not be defined merely as the absence of disease,” he said, highlighting that Cuba provides comprehensive care without discrimination and with a strong focus on primary care.

He also recalled that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Cuba sent medical brigades to 40 countries, including some in Europe, despite the international embargo imposed by the United States.

teleSUR/ JF

Source: Agência Câmara de Noticias

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