With the BRICS summit fast approaching, South Africa has recently named 23 specific expansion candidates. Indeed, South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Naledi Pandor, recently discussed the countries that have sought to be included in the growing economic alliance.
Among those countries included are Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Cuba, the United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela. Altogether, Pandor specifically referenced the countries that have attempted to seek entry. Nevertheless, the upcoming summit should open the door for these countries to submit official applications for entry.
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BRICS Names 23 Specific Expansion Candidates
The BRICS bloc has long observed the upcoming annual summit as a vital and important gathering. Indeed, the two-day event should see the bloc discuss the prospect of expansion and alternative currencies. Two ideas that will be crucial for its continued growth.
Now, BRICS member country South Africa has specifically discussed 23 expansion candidates. Specifically, South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor named the two dozen countries that have inquired about joining the bloc.
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Pandor named Algeria, Argentina, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Honduras, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Morocco, Nigeria, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Thailand, UAE, Venezuela, and Vietnam.
Additionally, Pandor noted that these countries “have had formal expressions of interest,” in joining the bloc. Ultimately, it is clear that this short list represents the countries most likely o join the bloc in August. Subsequently, the expansion criteria should also denote which countries are more likely to join the expansion than others.
Currently, many expect Saudi Arabia to join the Economic alliance. Already set to join the BRICS New Development Bank, it is an understandable addition to the alliances seeking multipolarity in the geopolitical sphere. Moreover, its economic presence would undoubtedly impact the bloc in a positive way.