MOSCOW, August 24 – RAPSI. The conclusive document, which entails the expansion of the BRICS consortium, was formally adopted by the leaders representing the member nations of the association, culminating the summit held in Johannesburg.
The endorsed declaration was designated as “Johannesburg-2,” as confirmed by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during a press briefing.
Ramaphosa highlighted that the document effectively mirrors the shared perspective and mutual interests that form the bedrock of the organization.
He stated, “We have taken the decision to extend invitations to Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, inviting them to assume full membership within BRICS.”
This new chapter in the association’s journey will commence on January 1, 2024, as specified by the South African leader.
“In collaboration, we are poised to forge a collective partnership within the framework of BRICS,” he added.
Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed the consortium’s expansion, deeming it a “historic” development. Xi remarked, “This step towards expanding membership holds profound significance. It underscores the BRICS nations’ shared aspiration for unity and progress.”
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the leader of the UAE, responded to the decision by BRICS leaders. He conveyed his sentiments through a message posted on Platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Sheikh Mohammed expressed, “We eagerly anticipate sustained cooperation for the betterment, honor, and welfare of all nations and people worldwide.”
This marks the first instance of new member admissions to the international partnership since 2010.
The existing constituents of BRICS encompass Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Additional countries, including Algeria, Bangladesh, Venezuela, and Bolivia, have previously indicated their intent to join this consortium. In mid-August, the South African Ministry of Foreign Affairs ratified a list of 23 nations that had formally expressed their desire for BRICS membership.
Looking ahead to 2024, the reins of chairmanship will transition to Russia. An anticipated summit is scheduled to convene in Kazan in October. Russian President Vladimir Putin elucidated that Russia’s stewardship of BRICS will revolve around the theme of fortifying multilateralism to foster equitable global development and security.