During a news briefing on Thursday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov provided updates regarding the upcoming BRICS summit, set to take place in Russia later this month. He revealed that 30 delegations have confirmed their attendance, indicating strong international interest in the gathering.
Ryabkov mentioned that the summit might consider the membership of new countries, including Turkey, which submitted its application to join BRICS in September. The potential for expansion reflects the bloc’s evolving geopolitical landscape and desire to strengthen ties with additional nations.
In a notable point, Ryabkov indicated that the agenda for the summit may also address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He stated, “Russia was and remains open to a political and diplomatic solution to the conflict,” suggesting that discussions could focus on finding avenues for resolution.
Founded in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, the BRICS alliance has seen significant growth in recent years, with South Africa joining in 2010 and countries like Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates being added more recently. Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in joining the group, while Azerbaijan has formally submitted an application, showcasing BRICS’ expanding influence on the global stage.
As the summit approaches, the participation of diverse delegations and discussions on critical issues like Turkey’s membership and the Ukraine conflict will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the BRICS alliance.
