6 New Members Join the BRICS Organization: A Global Shift in Geopolitics
Introduction
In a pivotal move that underscores the evolving dynamics of global geopolitics, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the outcomes of the 15th BRICS Summit on August 24, 2023. This historic announcement marks the addition of six new members to the BRICS organization—Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Their full membership will take effect from January 2024, bringing substantial changes to the world order. This article delves into the significance of this expansion, the impact on global alliances, and the trajectory of South-South cooperation.
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| 6 new members join the BRICS organization |
The 15th BRICS Summit: Shaping a New Global Landscape
The three-day 15th BRICS summit unfolded at the prestigious Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg. Amidst this esteemed gathering, the leaders made an unprecedented decision that would redefine the geopolitical landscape. Their joint commitment to champion the "Global South" echoes a shared vision of progress, development, and solidarity among nations.
India's Proactive Role in Expansion
At the heart of this transformative development is India's resolute role in driving the expansion of the BRICS organization. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emerged as a key architect in building consensus for selecting new members. The expansion of BRICS has been a focal point of the summit, with over 20 countries vying for full membership and more than 40 expressing their keen interest.
BRICS: A Journey of Evolution
The roots of BRICS trace back to the initial meeting of the leaders of BRIC countries—Brazil, Russia, India, and China—in Saint Petersburg, Russia, in July 2006, on the sidelines of the G8 Outreach Summit. This informal gathering paved the way for the formal establishment of the group in September 2006. Following a series of high-level meetings, the inaugural BRIC summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia, on June 16, 2009.
Charting a New Trajectory: The Impact of Expansion
The inclusion of Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates as full members of BRICS is poised to bring about a seismic shift in the global balance of power. These nations, hailing from diverse regions and backgrounds, collectively contribute to the organization's multifaceted agenda of promoting economic growth, development, and cooperation.
South-South Cooperation: A Shared Vision
This expansion reinforces the concept of South-South cooperation—a collaborative approach among developing countries to address common challenges and pursue shared opportunities. The inclusion of nations from Africa, the Middle East, and South America amplifies the reach and impact of BRICS, fostering a new era of interconnectedness.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the 15th BRICS Summit?
The 15th BRICS Summit marked a historic moment as 6 new members were welcomed to the organization, reshaping global alliances.
Q: How will the new members contribute to BRICS?
The new members, including Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, bring diverse perspectives and resources, enriching BRICS' objectives.
Q: What role did India play in this expansion?
India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, played a pivotal role in driving consensus and focus on BRICS expansion.
Q: How does this expansion impact global geopolitics?
The expansion of BRICS signifies a shift in global power dynamics, as new members join the organization with their unique contributions.
Q: What is South-South cooperation?
South-South cooperation is a collaborative approach among developing countries to address challenges and opportunities, fostering mutual growth.
Conclusion
The inclusion of 6 new members in the BRICS organization heralds a paradigm shift in global diplomacy and cooperation. As Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates align their interests with those of BRICS, the world witnesses the emergence of a more diversified and interconnected international order. This expansion cements the commitment to South-South cooperation, enhancing the collective efforts towards economic growth, development, and global stability.
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