BRICS is reportedly approaching a broader membership landscape, with 25 countries said to be signaling intent to join. This information surfaced in an interview with the South African Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Mzuvukile Jeff Maketuka, speaking to TASS. He noted that during the Kazan discussions, it was clear that new members would be welcomed into the alliance as part of an ongoing enlargement process.
According to Maketuka, six countries were nominated for BRICS membership at the 15th summit held in Johannesburg from August 22 to 24, 2023, and about 12 applications out of a total of 23 countries were evaluated at that time. He added that officials are observing the fate of 11 other nations and what developments may unfold in Kazan. The diplomat suggested that Algeria, Belarus, and Pakistan could be potential entrants, but emphasized that any expansion would proceed gradually, making it unlikely that all applicants would be admitted immediately.
He further remarked that enlargement will be a priority issue for BRICS in the near future, signaling ongoing discussions about how new members fit into the group’s framework. In related remarks, Mushahid Hussain Syed, who previously chaired Pakistan’s Senate Defense Committee, expressed hopes for a swift review of Pakistan’s bid to join BRICS. Syed underscored the country’s desire for timely consideration of its application.
Additionally, the BRICS mission under the People’s Republic of China has highlighted the bloc’s interest in expanding membership, signaling a broad international interest in aligning with BRICS’ evolving agenda. Observers note that any expansion would require careful assessment of economic, political, and strategic implications for existing members and prospective entrants, ensuring a coherent path for integration into BRICS’ shared objectives. The ongoing dialogue around enlargement reflects BRICS’ evolving role on the global stage and the careful coordination needed to manage a larger, more diverse coalition. [citation needed]