The BRICS economic bloc has extended a record 69 invitations for its upcoming summit in Johannesburg, including to all African heads of state and major Global South organization leaders. South Africa’s diplomat in charge of BRICS relations said they’ve never had such large outreach before.
The summit from August 22-24 is poised to be the largest BRICS gathering yet. The bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa has invited every African leader, but not Western nations like the US, UK and France, despite French interest.
Many heads of state requested invites from South Africa’s president, who decided full African representation was important given BRICS involvement there. The focus is advancing African development and trade.
Moreover, over 40 countries have expressed interest in joining BRICS, with 22 already formally applying. This demonstrates strong global confidence in the bloc per the diplomat.
BRICS is rapidly expanding its international reach and influence, especially across emerging Global South economies.
According to the South African BRICS diplomat, President Ramaphosa’s decision to invite all African leaders stemmed from BRICS’ involvement across Africa. As summit chair, South Africa wants to encourage continental development, especially the African free trade agreement.
The diplomat stressed this will be their largest outreach ever, unlike 2018 which was limited to Southern African states and Global South bodies. He said the considerable interest shows confidence in BRICS globally.
Though Western nations weren’t invited, he noted BRICS still engages others on common issues. Discussions will cover increasing trade in local currencies to reduce dependence on the dollar. BRICS is rapidly expanding its reach and influence internationally.
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