"The evolving world in which we live requires us to keep track of multi-faceted and dynamic changes, especially as it relates to security matters. BRICS is a platform that gives us the opportunity to address some of these challenges," she said.
Ntshavheni, the minister in the presidency, delivered opening remarks at the BRICS National Security Advisers Meeting in the South African city of Johannesburg. She identified commercial disruptions, shifting trade ties and alliances, money laundering, proxy conflicts, terrorism and radicalism as some of those challenges.
The meeting of the Brazilian, Russian, Indian, Chinese and South African security chiefs took place in-person after two years of online gatherings prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. It precedes the BRICS leaders' summit set for August 22-24.
The meeting of representatives responsible for security issues in the bloc's countries is traditionally held before the summit of the leaders. The previous event of this kind took place in June last year via videoconference.
This year, the gathering, held in the "Friends of BRICS" format, focused on topical issues in the field of security, which is the key to political and economic stability. The participants discussed current challenges facing the world and prospects for security cooperation.