Speculation about South Africa’s future in BRICS after this year’s election has already begun, but for now the government is staying put and eager to play a big role in the global alliance.
South Africa is poised to play a pivotal role in the expansion of the BRICS bloc this year, as 34 additional countries express interest in joining this coalition of major emerging economies. Professor Anil Sooklal, serving as Ambassador at Large for Asia and BRICS and the South African Sherpa, revealed that Russia, assuming the rotating chairmanship of the group, is now accepting applications for membership.
The momentum for expansion was set during the Johannesburg Summit last year, where a declaration was issued urging foreign ministers to consider applications for partner country membership as directed by the leaders. With Russia now at the helm, having assumed chairpersonship from South Africa, the bloc has significantly broadened its global reach. Earlier this year, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia became the inaugural members of this expanded alliance, while Argentina withdrew its application.
Sooklal noted that expressions of interest have poured in from various African nations and other developing countries. However, amidst the influx of applications, no definitive decision has been made regarding the number of new entrants or the specific criteria for selection.
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