The Directorate of the Organising Committee for the Preparation and Holding of the International Municipal BRICS Forum (IMBRICS Forum) and the Centre for Integration and Cooperation between Russia and Latin America (CICRAL) have signed a cooperation agreement. The document was signed by Elena Belyakova, Head of the Directorate, and Esteban Perié, President of CICRAL.
The agreement was finalised during the visit of Maria Osipova, Deputy Head of the IMBRICS Forum Directorate, to Buenos Aires, Argentina, in February of this year.
About the Centre for Integration and Cooperation between Russia and Latin America (CICRAL)
CICRAL is a non-governmental, non-profit organisation established to develop relations between Russia and the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean. The Centre focuses on strengthening trade, political, academic, scientific, cultural, and sports ties through public diplomacy mechanisms. Currently, CICRAL is actively operating in 15 countries across the region, including Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Paraguay, Bolivia, Guatemala, and Costa Rica, where it has established offices within Russian embassies.
The main goal of the agreement is to foster interaction between Russian cities and BRICS countries, as well as to strengthen ties in economic, social, cultural, and scientific spheres. The signed document opens new opportunities for the exchange of expertise, implementation of joint projects, and the creation of long-term partnerships.
José Gallafent, Director of the Argentine branch of CICRAL, stated:
“It is very important for us to have the opportunity to work with the International Municipal BRICS Forum, as it will allow Argentina and all of Latin America to develop and grow together with Russia.”
Key areas of cooperation:
Sustainable Urban Development: Exchange of experience in urban planning, energy efficiency, and waste management.
Innovations and IT: Promotion of technological projects aimed at improving urban management and development.
Education and Workforce Training: Organisation of training programmes and seminars for municipal representatives.
Culture and Sports: Development of cultural exchanges and joint sports initiatives.
Ecology and Climate: Collaborative projects on environmental preservation and renewable energy development.
Economic Development: Support for entrepreneurial initiatives, international trade, and investment attraction.
Youth Agenda.
CICRAL, as an organisation actively promoting public diplomacy, plays a crucial role in fostering interaction between regions of Russia and Latin America. This agreement underscores the importance of cooperation at the municipal level, which contributes not only to economic and social development but also to strengthening friendly relations between countries.