The leaders of the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) have reached an agreement on a document outlining the principles for admitting new members to the association. The news was reported by Reuters, citing statements from Naledi Pandor, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa.
"In relation to the matter of BRICS expansion, we have reached an agreement today," - she stated during an interview with the local radio station Ubuntu. - "A document outlining the principles, methods, and procedures for countries interested in becoming BRICS members has been endorsed."
Pandor mentioned that further information regarding the expansion will be disclosed by the leaders at the conclusion of the summit. "This marks a highly encouraging progression," - she emphasized. - "The extent of interest from numerous countries to join BRICS is quite remarkable, underscoring the unique role of the association in the contemporary global landscape."
Since January, the BRICS sherpas have been engaged in formulating the concept of expansion and delineating the principles for its implementation. A total of 22 countries have formally submitted applications to join BRICS. These countries encompass Algeria, Argentina, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Honduras, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Nigeria, the State of Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Venezuela, and Vietnam.
During the sidelines of the summit, there have been indications that the opportunity for BRICS membership will be extended to 3-5 nations. Among these, Argentina, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia are reportedly under consideration for potential membership.
GSV "Russia - Islamic world"
Photo: brics-russia2020.ru/Creative Commons 4.0
Based on materials from TASS