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This research paper by Zhu Jiejin discusses the establishment and strategic role of the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) as a mechanism for new South–South co-operation. The author argues that the NDB is designed to address the significant infrastructure financing gaps in developing countries and to supplement, rather than replace, existing multilateral development institutions. The paper proposes five guiding principles for the NDB's institutional design: fair governance, market-based operation, non-intervention with high standards, localisation, and constructive supplement.

This 2008 report by the South African Institute of International Affairs examines the strategic relationship between China and the Portuguese-speaking countries (PSCs), focusing on the role of the Macau Forum as a foreign policy instrument. It analyzes the economic motivations driving China's engagement—specifically energy and food security—and the varying expectations of the PSCs, ranging from market expansion for Brazil and Portugal to infrastructure and development aid for African PSCs and East Timor.

This briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) examines how developing countries have adapted their governance strategies within the World Trade Organization (WTO). It argues that an 'ideational shift' has occurred, where the South now views the WTO as a development and trade institution rather than purely a trade liberalization forum. The author highlights the rise of informal, issue-based coalitions as a rational response to power imbalances and negotiating constraints, enabling developing nations to pool resources and influence outcomes in the Doha negotiations.

This research paper analyzes Brazil's trade policy and reform, noting a significant increase in trade surpluses and productivity following liberalization in the 1990s. However, it argues that Brazil remains relatively closed compared to other BRIC nations and is hindered by the 'Brazil Cost' (bureaucracy and infrastructure deficits). The author contends that current trade policy is overly driven by geopolitical goals—such as seeking a UN Security Council seat—rather than commercial strategy, and calls for a more transparent, strategic, and less bureaucratic trade regime.

This policy brief analyzes the New Development Bank's (NDB) approach to the Use of Country Systems (UCS) for infrastructure financing. It examines how the NDB leverages the public financial management (PFM) and environmental and social frameworks (ESFs) of member states to increase efficiency, while providing recommendations to mitigate financial and reputational risks as the bank expands its membership.

This research paper by Mzukisi Qobo examines the global and domestic landscape of beneficial ownership transparency, focusing on the implementation of G20 High-Level Principles. It analyzes the challenges faced by South Africa and other African nations in curbing illicit financial flows (IFFs), money laundering, and corruption, while reviewing the regulatory approaches of several G20 member states.

A budget vote speech delivered by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, to the National Assembly on 31 May 2011. The speech outlines South Africa's foreign policy priorities, its role in regional and global governance, and the operational goals of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).

This research paper by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) analyzes bilateral trade between Ethiopia and the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) from 1995 to 2012. It finds that while trade has increased significantly, particularly with China and India, the relationship remains a typical 'North-South' pattern where Ethiopia exports primary products and imports manufactured goods and machinery.

This research paper by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) examines the trade relations between Nigeria and the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). The study analyzes trade intensity, complementarity, and the resulting impact on Nigeria's GDP, concluding that while Nigeria maintains trade surpluses with several BRICS members, its exports are heavily concentrated in crude oil, and its economic growth is significantly influenced by imports from China and exports to South Africa.

This policy briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs examines the historical evolution of Brazil's regional identity and its transition toward becoming a regional power. It argues that Brazil historically distinguished itself from 'Latin America'—which it viewed as synonymous with Spanish America—and has only recently shifted its foreign policy focus toward active engagement and leadership within South America.

This policy briefing examines South Africa's shifting relationship with the Responsibility to Protect (R2P) doctrine and the International Criminal Court (ICC). It argues that while South Africa initially championed human rights as the guiding light of its foreign policy following its democratic transition, it has since adopted a more pragmatic approach. This shift is characterized by suspicion toward initiatives perceived as advancing Western interests and a tension between maintaining continental solidarity within Africa and pursuing ambitions as an emerging global power.

This policy brief examines the role of emerging powers, specifically the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) and IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) forums, in the evolution of South–South co-operation. The author analyzes whether these alliances serve as genuine champions for the developing world or as self-serving entities pursuing global economic dominance. The document argues that for these forums to effectively challenge neo-liberal globalisation and benefit the most vulnerable regions, particularly Africa, they must move beyond political rhetoric toward inclusive, practical action plans and transparent mandates.

This policy briefing examines South Africa's role as the host and president of the 17th session of the Conference of Parties (COP 17) to the UNFCCC in November and December 2011. It analyzes the geopolitical challenges of the climate negotiations, South Africa's efforts to coordinate a common African voice, its participation in the BASIC alliance, and the necessity of aligning its domestic climate policies with its international leadership ambitions.

This policy briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs examines the impact of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) on South Africa, arguing that FDI does not automatically guarantee economic growth or job creation. The author suggests that the government should prioritize public investment in economic infrastructure and industrialization over the mere attraction of FDI, particularly in sectors like retail where large foreign entities may displace local businesses.

This policy briefing analyzes the evolution of Brazilian foreign policy in the 21st century, specifically under President Luiz 'Lula' da Silva. It examines Brazil's efforts to balance its role as a regional leader in South America with its ambitions as a global player, emphasizing its commitment to multilateralism, the reform of international institutions, and the use of soft power to promote democratic governance.

This policy briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) analyzes South Africa's role as the host of the 2013 BRICS Summit. It examines how South Africa can leverage its membership in the BRICS group to advance its own national interests and promote the development and industrialization of Africa, while navigating the complexities of regional leadership and the predominantly bilateral nature of BRICS-Africa economic engagements.

This policy briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs examines the potential for biofuel technology transfer from Brazil to South Africa and other African nations through the India–Brazil–South Africa (IBSA) Forum. It highlights Brazil's leadership in bioethanol and suggests that while biofuels offer a path toward climate change mitigation and rural development, South Africa must first establish a coherent national strategy that balances energy needs with food security and land reform.

This policy brief by Andre W. Cooper examines how middle-power countries recalibrate their diplomatic strategies in a multipolar global environment. It contrasts the approaches of the MIKTA grouping, South Africa's alignment with BRICS, and Canada's shift from broad multilateralism toward a more consolidated focus on strategic Western allies.

This policy brief by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) outlines a strategic roadmap for implementing Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) withinS within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. The authors argue that while SADC has strong foundational payment systems, it faces systemic risks due to policy fragmentation and a lack of regulatory harmonisation, specifically regarding the AU Malabo Convention. The document proposes a 'Triple-A' agenda—accelerate, anchor, and assert—to drive inclusive digital transformation, leveraging lessons from India's 'security-by-design' and Brazil's 'brownfield' approach to digital sovereignty.

This briefing by the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) examines the proposed preferential trade agreement (PTA) between the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and India. It details the economic rationale, negotiating interests, and potential challenges of the deal, while considering its place within the broader IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Dialogue and the possibility of a future trilateral free trade agreement.