BRICS summit begins in South Africa with Brazil under pressure to give in on group expansion

The 15th summit of BRICS, representing Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, kicks off in Johannesburg.

Brazil is under significant pressure to consider the inclusion of new members.

China, the group’s dominant economy, sees this enlargement as an opportunity to strengthen alliances distinct from Western-led entities, notably the G7.

At least 22 countries, from emerging powers like Turkey to nations facing economic hardships like Argentina, are potential candidates.

While Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva seems open to admitting some of these contenders, Brazilian diplomatic quarters fear diluting Brazil’s influence in an expanded group.

They are cautious about taking a clear stance against Western entities.

A potential compromise suggests admitting countries as BRICS associates rather than full members, avoiding direct Western opposition.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa publicly supports the Chinese-led proposal, emphasizing the benefits of a diverse and equitable global order.

His warm reception of Chinese President Xi Jinping underlined this stance, showcasing the countries’ strong trade ties.

China’s investments in Africa, especially South Africa, have surged.

Russia, facing Western sanctions, also backs BRICS’ enlargement. The group, established in 2009, played a key role during the 2008 financial crisis.

Meanwhile, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, traditionally wary of China’s regional ambitions, seems open to negotiations on clear membership criteria, a sentiment shared by Lula.

In these discussions, Brazil hopes to garner China’s support for its long-standing ambition to secure a permanent seat at the UN Security Council, a move both South Africa and India endorsed.

The leaders will further deliberate on these matters at a meeting and dinner in Johannesburg.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will join via video, avoiding potential legal complications related to an international arrest warrant.

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