Pakistan has formally submitted its application for membership in the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) grouping, a move coinciding with the bloc's ambitious expansion plans in 2024 under Moscow's rotating presidency.
The announcement was made during a press briefing by foreign office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, who said, “Yes, I can confirm that Pakistan has made a formal request to join BRICS, which we believe is an important grouping of developing countries.”
Pakistan's application underscores its commitment to multilateralism, reflecting its active role in various international organizations dedicated to global peace and development, she added.
Baloch emphasized Pakistan's positive relations with existing BRICS members and the newly invited countries, including Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), set to formally join during the 2024 summit in Russia. “By becoming a part of BRICS, Pakistan aims to contribute significantly to international cooperation and promote inclusive multilateralism,” she said, expressing hope for a favorable response from the bloc.
Addressing concerns about the terrorist threat originating from Afghanistan, Baloch urged immediate action by Afghan authorities against terrorist entities to safeguard Pakistan. Additionally, she reiterated Pakistan's support for an international peace conference on the Palestinian issue, emphasizing the implementation of relevant UN resolutions for a two-state solution.
Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have been extended invitations to join BRICS, with their membership set to take effect on January 1, 2024, during the summit in Russia under Moscow's rotating presidency.
(Inputs from ANI)
