The Second Meeting of the BRICS Culture Working Group (CWG) commenced on 4 June 2026 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, under India's BRICS Presidency 2026. The inaugural session of the two-day meeting was chaired by Shri Vivek Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, and Chair of the BRICS Culture Working Group. The meeting brings together member nations to strengthen cultural cooperation and advance a shared vision for sustainable and people-centric development.
In his opening remarks at the inaugural session, Shri Vivek Aggarwal highlighted that BRICS countries are home to some of the world's oldest civilisations while also representing vibrant and evolving contemporary cultural landscapes. Referring to the BRICS 2026 theme, "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability," he underscored the importance of placing people at the heart of cultural engagement and fostering stronger cultural ties among member countries. He emphasised that culture serves as a powerful bridge connecting societies, strengthening mutual understanding, and contributing to inclusive growth.
The meeting witnessed participation from delegations of India, Brazil, China, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, and Iran in person, while representatives from Russia, Ethiopia, and Egypt joined in hybrid mode. During the inaugural session, member states shared their perspectives and priorities on the key agenda items identified under India's Culture Track, namely the creative economy, cultural heritage protection, and culture-led sustainable development.
A major focus of the first day was the growing significance of the creative economy as a driver of innovation, employment, and social inclusion. The first panel discussion, "Creative Economy and People-to-People Cooperation: Innovation, Partnerships and the Way Forward," moderated by Shri Vivek Aggarwal, explored pathways for strengthening cultural industries, enhancing market access, promoting digital innovation, and deepening people-to-people exchanges across BRICS countries.
The second panel discussion, "Copyright and Ethical AI in the Creative Economy: Advancing Best Practices," was moderated by Dr Sachchidanand Joshi, Member Secretary, IGNCA, Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The session examined emerging issues relating to copyright protection, cultural attribution, and the responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence within the creative sector. Delegates exchanged views on developing collaborative approaches that safeguard creators' rights while encouraging innovation.
The day's proceedings concluded with a cultural programme showcasing India's rich artistic traditions. Delegates were treated to a regional musical presentation followed by "Colours of India," a vibrant showcase of classical and folk dance forms from different parts of the country. The performances reflected India's cultural diversity and offered international participants a deeper appreciation of the nation's living heritage.
The meeting continued on 5 June 2026 with further deliberations on the priority areas of cultural cooperation, reinforcing the commitment of BRICS nations to collaborative cultural engagement and sustainable development.
