On Sunday, 20 August, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that during a meeting in Johannesburg this week, South Africa intends to suggest the addition of new members to BRICS, a coalition of five prominent emerging economies in the world.

“The 15th BRICS Summit will discuss a range of issues, including the important issue of possible expansion of BRICS membership. South Africa supports the expansion of BRICS membership,” said the President in a televised address to the nation.

According to Ramaphosa, at least 20 countries have formally applied to join BRICS, with several other nations expressing interest in becoming part of the group in the future, as reported by
Brasil 247, a partner of TV BRICS.

The meeting between Brazil, Russia, China, India and South Africa will also be attended by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

South Africa will have the opportunity to lead on global challenges in 2025, when it will chair the G20 group of the world’s leading economies, emphasised the president.

The BRICS Summit is held annually and provides an opportunity for leaders to meet, discuss important issues and strengthen cooperation among the participants. Topics discussed at the summits may include economic cooperation, infrastructure projects, combating global challenges such as climate change and other global policy issues.

It also provide a platform for dialogue between developing countries and representatives from different regions of the world. They demonstrate the desire of these countries to cooperate and influence the global arena, and allow them to discuss ways to strengthen their role in the global economy and politics.

Photo:
Flickr