With the theme of “Deepening the Partnership on New Industrial Revolution and Promoting Common Sustainable Development”, the forum welcomed more than 300 participants from embassies and consulates of some countries in China, as well as relevant international organizations, well-known enterprises and industry associations. Extensive and in-depth discussions were conducted on the digital transformation of industries, supply chain and industrial chain cooperation, and sustainable industrial development.

At the forum, Xin Guobin, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, put forward three suggestions for continuing to deepen pragmatic cooperation in the new industrial revolution under the new context. First, upholding solidarity and win-win cooperation. We should leverage the development opportunities of the new industrial revolution, center partnerships on such areas as 5G, industrial Internet, big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and intelligent manufacturing, and cultivate a fair, just and non-discriminatory development environment. Second, advocating pioneering spirit, innovation, universal benefits and balanced development. We should launch a series of cooperation programs on talent training, policy exchange and demonstration projects to enhance the development capacity of information and communication industries and support global sustainable development. Third, adhering to opening up, inclusiveness, co-development and result sharing. We should focus on key areas, such as technology, rules and standards, continue to conduct institutional and systemic international exchange and collaboration in areas related to the new industrial revolution and create an international cooperation platform conducive to all.

Talents are the main force driving the digital transformation and upgrading of each country. According to Basidi, Minister Plenipotentiary of the South African Embassy in China, talents and talent cultivation are regarded as key drivers of enhancing manufacturing competitiveness, and National Digital and Future Skills Strategy has been formulated by South Africa to meet the needs of the digital economy. South Africa looks forward to deepened partnerships and investment among BRICS partners to expedite their respective economic and social development needs.

Speeches on digital transformation and upgrading were also delivered by Alexey Gruzdev, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Russia, and Rupa Dutta, Principal Advisor of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of India.

The final of the BRICS Industrial Innovation Contest 2022 was also held during the forum, playing a demonstration and leading role in BRICS industrial cooperation. In addition, 29 projects with a total investment of RMB 18.1 billion were signed at the forum.

The forum was co-hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Fujian Provincial People’s Government, Xiamen Municipal People’s Government, and the China Council for BRICS Think Tank Cooperation.