The BRICS summit in October 2024 is set to be a watershed moment. Not only will it be the first gathering since the bloc’s historic expansion to include four new members – the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Iran, and Ethiopia – but it’s also attracting significant interest from an additional seven nations seeking entry. This surge in interest underscores the growing influence of BRICS and its potential to challenge the current global power structure.
Held under the Russian presidency in Kazan, the summit will see the nine-member alliance discuss pressing global issues and solidify its economic and political weight. This expansion, announced in 2023, marks a significant shift. Since the beginning of this year, applications from Cameroon, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Syria, Thailand, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe have poured in. This surge in interest reflects the growing appeal of BRICS’ founding principles among developing economies, who see an alternative to the dominance of the US dollar.
The potential addition of these seven nations signifies a major geopolitical turning point. Each new member brings unique strengths and challenges, inevitably reshaping the global balance of power. Thailand’s recent interest, for instance, highlights the bloc’s growing allure for emerging economies. Joining BRICS could solidify Thailand’s position as a key Asian player by diversifying its economic and political partnerships.
However, the path to expansion isn’t without obstacles. Pakistan’s advanced discussions with Russia for entry are complicated by regional tensions with India, a founding BRICS member. This exemplifies the complex geopolitical landscape within BRICS, where existing rivalries can influence strategic decisions.
Also Read: BRICS Faces Growing Pains: 40+ Nations Seek Entry, But India Cries Foul
The implications of this expansion are far-reaching. The BRICS aim to dethrone the US dollar by encouraging the use of local currencies for international trade. This ambition, if successful, could disrupt the established economic order and have significant consequences for dollar-reliant economies.
The October summit will be a crucial stage for BRICS as it navigates expansion and its ambitious goals. Whether the bloc can successfully integrate new members and challenge the current power dynamic remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the world is watching.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The author’s views are personal and may not reflect the views of Chain Affairs. Before making any investment decisions, you should always conduct your own research. Chain Affairs is not responsible for any financial losses.
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