Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Tuesday the BRICS group has opportunities for further expansion by adding a new category of partner countries.
The bloc doubled its membership this year to 10, with Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia joining the original five members — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
Ryabkov told the state news agency TASS that BRICS had entered a “second stage of expansion” and could deepen ties with partner states. He said one of Russia’s priorities during its presidency was to integrate the new members who joined after Jan. 1, 2024, and that the task had been accomplished effectively.
The group’s fourth Sherpa meeting concluded with Brazil handing the rotating presidency to India in a symbolic ceremony. Brazilian envoy Mauricio Lyrio formally transferred the role to his Indian counterpart, Sudhakar Dalela, expressing confidence in New Delhi’s leadership.
India said it will continue initiatives launched under Brazil’s presidency, including reducing risks from climate disasters, promoting fair access to artificial intelligence technologies and strengthening cooperation in scientific research among BRICS members.