Over 20 Nations Seek BRICS Membership, South African President Announces Ahead of Summit
BRICS Sees Surge in Membership Applications; South Africa Gears Up for 15th Summit
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In a significant development, more than 20 countries have submitted formal applications to join the BRICS alliance, a coalition of emerging economies comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa underscored the potential of an expanded BRICS during a televised address on Sunday evening. He noted that an enlarged BRICS would encompass nations with diverse political systems, united by their shared aspiration for a more equitable global order.
Johannesburg is preparing to host the 15th BRICS Summit, a major international event attended by esteemed leaders including Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Notably, due to an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued in March, Russian President Vladimir Putin's presence is curtailed. Russia's representation will be led by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. South Africa's involvement in the ICC, via the Rome Statute, has implications for Putin's participation.
President Xi is set to embark on his fourth state visit to South Africa, arriving the day before the summit's commencement. This visit is poised to foster the already strategic relationship between South Africa and China, anticipated to culminate in the signing of various agreements.
President Ramaphosa emphasized that the summit would see the participation of more than 30 African heads of state and government. The overarching aim is to establish a partnership between BRICS and Africa, aiming to unlock avenues for augmented trade, investments, and infrastructural advancements. Beyond the African continent, leaders from several Global South countries, encompassing the Caribbean, South America, the Middle East, West Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, are also expected to be in attendance.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has confirmed his participation, reflecting the bloc's endorsement. Ramaphosa's address further articulated South Africa's support for the United Nations, coupled with the belief in the necessity of genuine reform for increased democratic representation and efficacy. The transformation of the United Nations Security Council into a more comprehensive and effective body for maintaining global peace and security remains a priority.
President Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa's backing for the expansion of BRICS membership, recognizing the alliance's significance beyond its current constituents. The BRICS collective presently constitutes a substantial portion of the global economy, accounting for a fifth of worldwide trade and accommodating over 40% of the global population.
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