In a significant geopolitical development, the BRICS group officially expands its membership to include five new countries: Saudi Arabia , Egypt, United Arab Emirates , Iran , and Ethiopia , effective as of Monday, January 1, 2024.
This expansion follows the formal invitation extended to these nations in August 2023, post the 15th BRICS Summit held in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Originally established with Brazil , Russia , India , China , and South Africa as its founding members, BRICS serves as a pivotal platform for collaboration among emerging markets and developing countries.
The decision to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Ethiopia underscores the growing relevance and appeal of BRICS on the global stage. With numerous membership requests in recent years, BRICS continues to evolve as a dynamic forum fostering cooperation and dialogue among nations with diverse economic landscapes.
As these five nations officially join the BRICS community, the geopolitical landscape is poised for further transformation, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and synergy among a broader spectrum of emerging economies.
The expanded BRICS+ not only diversifies the group’s composition but also amplifies its potential impact on global economic dynamics and geopolitical discussions in the years to come.