Lucas Adrian Garcia, Vice President of the Centre for Integration and Cooperation between Russia and Latin America (CICRAL), emphasised the importance of strengthening economic cooperation between the two regions, including the development of the private sector, the expansion of public diplomacy tools, and the promotion of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
In an exclusive interview at the TV BRICS studio in the Roscongress International Cooperation Area at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), he noted that non-governmental organisations play a key role in this process, as they contribute to the development of economic and humanitarian cooperation.
“Goal 17 is the partnership for achieving the objectives set out in the United Nations 2030 Agenda. I believe that we all share responsibility for thinking about the future we want: non-governmental organisations, governments, the private sector and universities all need to work together to achieve that sustainable future,” Garcia said.
Among the priority areas for cooperation, he also highlighted SDG 4 (Quality Education), proposing the strengthening of academic and scientific exchanges between Russia and Latin America, as well as the expansion of educational opportunities for Latin American students at Russian institutions. He also stressed the importance of SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), pointing to the significance of discussions on food sovereignty and the contribution of both regions to global food production and food security.
Another key area is energy, within the context of the global energy transition. Garcia argued that Latin America must move towards clean and affordable energy models, in line with the transformations taking place across the global energy system. He also underlined that this process requires a long-term strategic vision and a more active role for the countries of the region, promoting dialogue and cooperation with international partners such as Russia, while also recognising the capabilities and resources that Latin America itself can contribute.
Earlier, during the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, the Centre for Integration and Cooperation between Russia and Latin America (CICRAL) and the TV BRICS International Media Network signed a cooperation agreement. The document is aimed at strengthening humanitarian, business and economic ties between the BRICS countries and the Global South, as well as developing parliamentary initiatives and implementing joint projects in the fields of education and youth policy. The parties intend to cooperate in promoting public diplomacy, expanding information exchange, and enhancing intergovernmental cooperation between Russia and the countries of Latin America.