BRICS Culture Ministers Adopt Bhopal Declaration in India

The 11th BRICS Culture Ministers' Meeting concluded in Bhopal, India, on August 8, 2026, with the adoption of the Bhopal Declaration. Under India's BRICS Chairship, ministers and delegates from 10 member countries and four partner countries established a framework to enhance cultural cooperation, specifically focusing on creative industries, UNESCO multinational nominations, the restitution of cultural property, and the protection of creators' rights regarding artificial intelligence.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, opened the proceedings on Friday evening at Ravindra Bhavan. He stated that the grouping is united by shared civilizational values, peace, and mutual respect rather than just economics and politics. The event included a cultural festival featuring the BRICS Peace Song and a dance-drama titled Amritasya Madhya Pradesh.

Following the festivities, ministerial talks were held at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre. As part of the outcome, the Ministry of Culture announced a pilot project to create a Voluntary Artist Registry to facilitate professional networks and exchanges. The summit also included site visits to Sanchi, Bhimbetka, and the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya.