Pakistan has officially expressed its intent to join the BRICS economic bloc, with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirming the move during the annual ministerial meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in Washington. When asked about Pakistan’s interest in BRICS membership, Aurangzeb stated, “Yes, we are,” indicating a clear ambition to become part of the organization, which currently comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
Earlier this year, Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Chairman of Pakistan’s Senate Defense Committee, called for an expedited review of the country’s application. He argued that Pakistan’s inclusion would strengthen BRICS and enhance its role in global economic and political dynamics.
The announcement comes just before the 2024 BRICS Summit, scheduled from October 22 to 24 in Kazan, Russia. The summit is the largest foreign policy event for Russia this year, with participation from 32 countries already confirmed, according to Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov.
BRICS is seen as a key platform for emerging economies to challenge the existing global economic order dominated by Western institutions. Pakistan’s potential membership aligns with its broader strategic goals of diversifying alliances and increasing its influence within multilateral forums.
With the bloc’s recent expansion to include Egypt and Ethiopia, BRICS is solidifying its position as a significant player in global geopolitics. Pakistan’s membership would mark another step towards a more inclusive and representative global order, enhancing the bloc’s economic and political clout.
As Pakistan pursues BRICS membership, the country seeks not only to gain from the economic opportunities within the group but also to contribute to reshaping global governance frameworks.
