The BRICS nations are joining forces to accelerate sustainable finance and implement joint climate and sustainability projects. This collaborative effort focuses on harmonizing their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) financial infrastructure. By harmonizing these financial systems, the BRICS nations aim to bolster investor confidence and reduce barriers to capital flow. The significance of this initiative is especially pronounced in situations where the global financial system fails to provide sufficient inclusive climate investments for developing nations.

To address this topic, a session titled "Ahead of Russia's BRICS Presidency: Developing energy cooperation for a just energy transition" will be held at the Russian Pavilion during the ongoing COP28 event on December 6th. This session will delve into the achievements of the BRICS Energy Research Cooperation Platform in 2023 and focus on areas such as energy security, personnel training, national energy transition models, and energy dialogue during Russia's BRICS Presidency in 2024.

Furthermore, a more comprehensive session titled "Harmonization of responsible finance infrastructure in BRICS countries: Paving the way to a common sustainable future" will take place on December 12th at the Russian Pavilion. During this session, speakers will explore joint actions necessary for mobilizing climate and sustainable financing. Participants will discuss the opportunities for developing and implementing common recommendations, standards, and requirements in the field of sustainable finance, aligning with the sustainable development priorities of BRICS countries.

The session will also propose key steps towards harmonizing ESG finance infrastructure. The discussion will be led by a panel of distinguished speakers representing BRICS financial institutions, government officials, and leading research institutions. As Russia prepares to assume the BRICS Presidency, it is committed to engaging in ongoing discussions with its partners to ensure a just energy transition. Moreover, with the recent official accession of the UAE to BRICS, the group strengthens its commitment to multilateral action and constructive dialogue.

This platform provides a powerful voice for developing and emerging economies on the global stage. In other news, US officials are set to visit Pakistan in December for consultations on various issues, including the ongoing situation in Afghanistan. The two countries have been engaged in reciprocal visits to expedite the consultation process. Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of being responsible for terrorist attacks and using Afghan oil for these attacks. A recent attack caused casualties, prompting Pakistan to deport illegal Afghan citizens.

US Assistant Secretary of State for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, Julieta Valls Noyes, will visit Pakistan from December 4 to 6 to discuss efforts to protect vulnerable individuals and facilitate the relocation and resettlement of Afghan refugees in the US immigration pipeline. Other US officials, including the Special Representative for Afghanistan and the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Pakistan, are also scheduled to visit Pakistan in the coming days. These visits are part of ongoing negotiations between the US and Pakistan, addressing various issues beyond the concerns of Afghanistan.