The 11th BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting was held in Bhopal today under India’s BRICS Chairship. The meeting adopted the Bhopal Declaration, aimed at strengthening cultural cooperation among BRICS member and partner countries. Representatives from 14 countries, including 10 BRICS members and four partner countries, took part in the meeting.
The delegates discussed ways to promote cultural and creative industries. They also focused on creating more opportunities for artists. The meeting discussed using digital platforms to help artists reach wider markets. Protecting and restoring cultural heritage was another key focus.
India announced a pilot Voluntary Artist Registry to promote cultural exchanges and professional networks among artists from BRICS countries. The meeting also discussed artists’ rights and fair use of copyrighted works in the age of Artificial Intelligence.
Addressing a press conference, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said Bhopal has provided a practical and forward-looking framework for cultural cooperation. He stressed the need to protect traditional knowledge, languages, folk music and cultural traditions for future generations. Mr Shekhawat said special focus was given to the culture and heritage of Madhya Pradesh. He said all countries must work together to protect these cultural traditions.
