Opinions differ between Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa over accepting new members into the loosely-defined club of major emerging economies that is seeking an alternative to the Western-led international order. Like the BRICS members themselves, these countries represent varying political systems, uneven economic strength, and contrary diplomatic positions, and are as diverse culturally and geographically as Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and Vietnam, to name a few. Friends and foesRussia and South Africa also support adding new members but this desire runs counter to India, the other major power in the BRICS, and an economic and geopolitical rival of China. Analysts say when considering new members, South Africa, India and Brazil must balance a desire for ties with China and Russia against the risk of estranging a major trading partner in the United States. South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor characterised this as an expansion of sorts and said BRICS members at the summit would be presented with a proposal regarding criteria for new members.

Source: Daily Nation August 22, 2023 16:41 UTC