BRICS news | BRICS members work to tackle climate change; Belarus and China strengthen sports and tourism cooperation

Pars Today – Protecting the environment and using natural resources wisely are among the most pressing challenges of our time. These goals are outlined within the framework of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Agenda for 2030.

BRICS countries have planned extensive funding for environmental protection under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Agenda.

According to Pars Today, citing BRICS TV, China has experienced rapid economic growth in recent years, achieving 5% growth in 2024. However, industrial expansion has led to increased greenhouse gas emissions. In response, the Chinese government has implemented an ambitious environmental strategy, including investments of 6.8 trillion yuan (over $950 billion) in green energy, electric vehicles, clean electricity, and energy efficiency improvements.

Russia: Focus on water resources

Russia is also active in environmental protection. In 2023, Russian companies spent 1.3 trillion rubles (around $16.2 billion) on environmental initiatives. The government’s annual budget for this sector will range between $5.8 and $6.5 billion from 2024 to 2026. Russia possesses unique natural resources, including 2.8 million rivers and over 2 million lakes. The national project “Environmental Wellbeing” is being implemented to reduce air and water pollution, promote a circular economy, and protect natural resources.

India: Extensive plans for sustainable development

In 2025, India announced that it had received $1.16 billion for climate projects through the United Nations Climate Change Convention’s financial mechanism. Key initiatives include the ban on single-use plastics since 2022 and a plan to replace gasoline and diesel vehicles with electric vehicles by 2030. The “Clean India” program is also one of the largest initiatives aimed at improving health and living conditions in residential areas. India’s participation in BRICS environmental dialogue highlights the country’s focus on a green economy, sustainable agriculture, water resource management, and the development of a digital economy.

Significant rise in summer tourism in Russia

According to forecasts by Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development, the 2025 summer tourism season, which typically runs from May to September, is expected to set a new record. Domestic and international tourists are projected to make around 48 million trips during this period, an 8% increase compared to last year. In just the first two months of the season, May and June, 16.5 million trips were recorded, showing roughly a 10% growth over 2024. Popular destinations like Moscow and Saint Petersburg remain at the top, while other regions have also experienced significant growth.

Strengthening sports and tourism cooperation between Belarus and China

Sergey Kovalchuk, Belarus’ Minister of Sports and Tourism, told Xinhua News Agency that Belarus-China cooperation in sports and tourism has entered a new phase with the support of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Kovalchuk expressed gratitude for China’s support in building modern sports facilities in Belarus, noting that, with China’s help, an international standard swimming pool and the national football stadium have been constructed to the highest global standards and now host major competitions.

Kovalchuk also welcomed Chinese tourists to Belarus, highlighting that since the launch of direct flights between the two countries, occupancy rates have been high and the flow of tourists continues to increase steadily.