5,000+ delegates attend BRICS International Innovation Forum in Moscow City
30+ nations’ representatives study modern technologies’ impact on urban life
More than 5,000 delegates from over 30 countries participated in the inaugural BRICS International Innovation Forum held in Moscow City as a symbol of global cooperation in pursuing technological progress.
The well-attended ‘Cloud City’ event was held at the Zaryadye Concert Hall, located in the beautiful Zaryadye Park in central Moscow City, from August 27-29, 2023, under the umbrella of the Moscow Urban Forum.
Delegates who attended the event included representatives from the UAE, China, India, Brazil, Indonesia, and South Africa, besides scores of other countries.
Throughout the three-day event, discussions by experts, heads of cities and departments from Russia, the BRICS countries, Asia, and the Middle East region delved into the profound impact of modern technologies on urban life.
Innovation agenda
The event highlighted advanced IT solutions for governments and businesses and offered insights into fostering innovation in participating countries.
Natalya Sergunina, Deputy Mayor of Moscow, Moscow Government and Head of the Mayor Executive Office and the Moscow Government, said: “The first BRICS Innovation Forum brought together like-minded people from dozens of countries.
“About 300 Russian and foreign experts participated in 50 thematic sessions. They signed several agreements, including the Moscow Declaration of Innovative Development.
“Summing up, I can say that the three days helped us outline further steps for cooperation in the technological area,” Sergunina added.
Daily themes
The Forum’s three daily themes – People, Economy, and City, respectively – facilitated thought-provoking discussions led by distinguished speakers.
Notable participants at the event included Nobel Peace Prize laureates Professor Muhammad Yunus and Rae Kwong Chung; Aisha Bin Bishr, Chair of the Dubai Future Council for Digital Operations; and Khaled El-Attar, Deputy Minister of Communications and Information Technology of Egypt.
During the event, the Moscow Innovation Cluster and members of government structures and industry-specific organisations from 10 states signed the Moscow Declaration of Innovative Development.
It involves cooperation in various areas – from improving digital ecosystems and introducing advanced developments to sharing experiences and establishing business partnerships.
Global agreements
Several Russian companies signed international agreements with participating countries’ business representatives at the Forum worth AED1.27 billion ($347 million).
Moscow-based Avtonomika clinched a deal for more than AED1.17 billion ($320 million) as part of an agreement to localise its Pixel robot production for the UAE’s utility sector.
The Russian company also finalised another AED184 million ($50 million) deal for developing its Pixel robot-cleaner autonomous technology as an investment from Starshot Ventures. This Indian venture capital fund focuses on autonomous machines, drones, and anti-drone technologies.
The Moscow Government was awarded the World Innovation Award for developing technologies and the city’s digital ecosystem during the event.
Natalya Sergunina won the Innovations, Industries, and Infrastructure category. This award honours individuals and organisations making significant strides toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and was presented in seven distinct types.
Forum attendees were also treated to an immersive exhibition featuring the latest innovations from Russia’s leading technology companies, allowing them to witness firsthand the advanced solutions shaping humanity’s future.
Featured image: Delegates attend a session at the BRICS International Innovation Forum in Moscow City. Image: Moscow Urban Forum
