By Vusi Mazimbuko
The BRICS nations, led by South Africa, are responding to the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict in what is being called a “BRICS Extraordinary Joint Meeting” scheduled for November 21, 2023. This virtual summit, chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, will feature his opening remarks, setting the stage for a series of country statements from both member and invited states.
With participation from Russian President Vladimir Putin and leaders from Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE, the meeting signifies a broadening of dialogue beyond the traditional BRICS framework. This assembly, inclusive of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, aims to culminate in a joint declaration, reflecting a collective stance on the Gaza situation.
Reports indicate that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not attend the virtual meeting. In his stead, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will step in to represent India.
South Africa’s leadership role, emphasising its commitment to the Palestinian cause, underlines the evolving geopolitical dynamics within BRICS and its extended partners.
The August BRICS Summit advocated a two-state solution, emphasising direct Israel-Palestine negotiations and calling for innovative diplomacy based on UN resolutions to resolve the conflict.
“We express our deep concern at the dire humanitarian situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories due to escalating violence under continued Israeli occupation and the expansion of illegal settlements. We call on the international community to support direct negotiations based on international law including relevant UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative, towards a two-state solution, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine.”
