1. The Innovation Competitiveness of BRICS Countries and the Current Status and Suggestions for BRICS Cooperation in STI

The chapter explores the pivotal role of innovation in driving global economic and social development, with a focus on the BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. These countries, representing a significant portion of the world's land area, population, GDP, and global trade, are key players in the STI landscape. The analysis delves into the impact of the New Industrial Revolution (NIR) on these nations, highlighting advancements in emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), which are transforming production processes and business models. The chapter provides a detailed assessment of the national innovation competitiveness of BRICS countries, using a set of secondary indicators to measure their performance in areas such as R&D investment, scientific publications, and high-tech exports. It also examines the challenges and opportunities presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, noting the significant contributions of BRICS countries in medical care and management. The chapter further discusses the BRICS STI cooperation mechanism, including joint research funding, young scientists exchange programs, and STI activities in major diplomatic events. It concludes with an outlook on the future of BRICS STI cooperation, emphasizing the potential for enhanced collaboration to drive economic growth, promote inclusive development, and foster a community with a shared future for mankind.