The ministers reached a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) -- a copy of which is available here -- to stimulate joint investment in the development of high technologies, create common technology platforms and set up centres of applied research and innovation laboratories.

The MOU, officials said, will serve as the "strategic inter-governmental framework" that would be signed by the heads of state and government at the 6th BRICS Summit scheduled for July in Fortaleza, Brazil.

The February 10-11 meeting, held as per the "eThekwini declaration and Action Plan" adopted at the Durban Summit last year, also ensured complementarities vis-à-vis cooperation with Africa, notably regarding increased access to technology as well as the launch of the BRICS Business Council and the BRICS Think Tanks Council.

The ministers suggested the establishment of mechanisms to transfer technology and knowledge and the creation of a student exchange programme within the group to address their human capital challenges.

"The meeting is a clear demonstration of our commitment to intensify cooperation in science, technology and innovation (STI) within the BRICS framework", said Derek Hanekom, South African minister of science and technology.

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