Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated today, Tuesday, that "the interest of other countries in joining the BRICS group is evidence of the growing influence of the bloc on the global stage," noting "minor disagreements regarding the potential expansion of the group before a summit of its members."
Peskov mentioned that the five member countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—are scheduled to meet in Johannesburg from August 22 to 24, and the topic of potential expansion will be at the forefront of the agenda. He added, "This is a very important topic, as we see more countries issuing statements about their intention to join BRICS."
Peskov explained, "In general, this interest in the BRICS group reveals the remarkable potential of the group and its increasing influence, and above all, its actual importance." He also pointed out that "there are what he described as minor disagreements within the group concerning the potential increase in its membership. All of these minor disagreements will, of course, be discussed during the upcoming summit, and the country leaders will share their positions."