If you are interested in international news and global economic issues, you have probably heard of the BRICS. This group, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, is made up of emerging economic powers that are playing an increasingly important role on the world stage.
The enlargement of the BRICS group is a topical subject that is causing a lot of talk. Indeed, twenty-two countries have officially submitted applications to join this bloc, according to South Africa’s ambassador to the BRICS, Anil Sooklal. In addition to these formal requests, an equal number of countries have also expressed their informal interest in joining the BRICS, demonstrating the growing appeal and influence of this group.
Among the countries that have officially applied for membership are Iran, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Ethiopia, Egypt and Argentina. Other countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Indonesia and some East and West African countries have also expressed interest in joining BRICS.
This desire to join such an influential group is explained by the advantages it can offer to its members. Indeed, the BRICS already represent 42% of the world’s population and around 25% of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP). By joining this group, emerging countries could strengthen their influence and weight in global governance bodies, such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
However, the enlargement of the BRICS group also raises questions. Some fear that this dilutes the influence of the original group and complicates decision-making. In addition, the membership of countries with different political and economic systems can create divergences and tensions within the group.
It remains to be seen how this request for enlargement will be handled and what the conditions of membership will be. However, it is undeniable that the BRICS continue to attract more and more countries interested in closer economic and political cooperation.
In conclusion, the enlargement of the BRICS group is a topical subject that arouses great interest. Membership applications from twenty-two countries testify to the growing importance of this group on the international scene. However, it remains to be seen how these requests will be handled and what the consequences of this enlargement will be on the influence and cohesion of the group