In what may well be a game-changing development, the BRICS leaders agreed to expand the alliance, with an announcement expected tomorrow. Indeed, the economic alliance will see Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa welcome an expanded membership group at this week’s summit.
Expansion has long been an expected outcome of the 2023 BRICS Summit, with all eyes on the bloc. Yet, a lack of consensus threatened the possible fruition of the concept, with discussions being held in Johannesburg. Now, it appears as though the bloc has reached an agreement.
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BRICS Agree on Expansion for The Alliance
The BRICS summit is ongoing, with the geopolitical world observing what could be a vital event. More than 40 heads of state traveled to take part in the gathering, with many seeking an answer to the potential expansion of the bloc. Now, it appears the leaders of Brazil, India, Russia, China, and South Africa have reached such an agreement.
Specifically, Reuters reported that BRICS has agreed to expand the alliance. Moreover, the bloc is expected to make an official announcement regarding its expanded membership tomorrow. The report noted that South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Naledi Pandor, confirmed the agreement.
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The economic alliance has reportedly “adapted a document that sets out guidelines and principles” regarding expansion. Subsequently, it sets the table for a host of countries to either be accepted or denied entry into the economic alliance for the Global South.
A plethora of nations have already submitted membership requests to the bloc. Among those are economic powerhouses such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Moreover, their inclusion should have massive geopolitical ramifications. However, there is no timetable yet as to when the included countries could be announced.