34 More Countries Apply to join BRICS IN 2024.

In recent news, it has been reported that the China and Russia-backed BRICS economic group is witnessing an influx of countries seeking to join its ranks. South Africa, a member state of BRICS, revealed that nearly three dozen countries have expressed their interest in becoming part of this influential alliance. This development comes just weeks after BRICS expanded its membership for the first time in over a decade, marking a significant milestone in the group’s evolution.

South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor announced that 34 countries have submitted their applications to join the bloc, although the specific nations were not mentioned. The responsibility of reviewing and accepting these applications now lies with Russia, as it assumes the rotating chairmanship of the group this year. This also marks the first time that a member state will oversee the body since its recent expansion, which saw Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Ethiopia, and Egypt formally joining the ranks of BRICS.

The growing interest in joining BRICS can be seen as a diplomatic victory for both China and Russia. These two nations have been actively working to reshape the international system, which they perceive as unfairly dominated by the United States. With increasing tensions between China, Russia, and the West, BRICS positions itself as the Global South’s alternative to the Group of Seven (G7) major developed economies.

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China, in particular, has been instrumental in driving the expansion of BRICS. Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has been forging closer partnerships with key global players, from Russia to the Middle East. This expansion allows China to strengthen its influence and presence on the international stage, challenging the existing world order and promoting an alternative vision. By leveraging its economic power and strategic alliances, China aims to create a more balanced and multipolar global system.

The inclusion of additional countries in BRICS is also beneficial for Russia. The nation has faced economic and diplomatic isolation from the West following its involvement in the Ukraine conflict. As the chair of BRICS, Russian President Vladimir Putin sees this as an opportunity to reassert his country’s influence and demonstrate its relevance on a global scale. The annual BRICS summit provides a platform for world leaders to gather and engage in diplomatic discussions, offering Putin a chance to showcase Russia’s capabilities and counter the narrative of isolation.

The expansion of BRICS has been a gradual process since its inception in 2009 as a summit-level gathering between Brazil, Russia, India, and China. South Africa joined the alliance two years later, solidifying its position as a major emerging economic force. Last year, during the 2023 summit, six new countries were invited to join BRICS. While most accepted the invitation, Argentina declined, following a change in government.

The inclusion of these new member states brings the combined strength of major oil-producing Gulf economies to the alliance. Additionally, the growing relationships between Russia, China, and Iran have played a significant role in shaping the dynamics of BRICS. China’s involvement in brokering the restoration of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran showcases its diplomatic influence in the region.

As BRICS continues to expand and attract interest from other countries, it is becoming an increasingly influential player in the global economic landscape. With a focus on promoting cooperation, development, and mutual benefits, BRICS aims to challenge the existing power structures and foster a more balanced and inclusive international order.

In conclusion, the China and Russia-backed BRICS economic group is experiencing a surge of interest from countries seeking to join its ranks. This expansion marks a significant shift in the global economic landscape, as emerging economies strive to assert their influence and challenge the dominance of traditional powers. With its focus on cooperation and development, BRICS aims to reshape the international system and create a more inclusive and multipolar world.