Can BRICS Expand with Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran?

The BRICS group, composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is considering expanding its membership to include Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran. This move would increase the group's representation to 46% of the world's population and a larger share of the global economy. However, there are concerns about the inclusion of Iran and Ethiopia, as they are not major players economically or politically. Some argue that countries like Indonesia and Bangladesh would bring more economic dynamism to the group. The purpose of the BRICS group remains unclear, as it lacks a common market or harmonized regulatory standards. Its main asset is a financial architecture that includes a development bank and cash reserve for countries facing currency difficulties. There is also a risk that the group could become an anti-Western club, which could hinder its future. While some members, like Russian President Vladimir Putin, have expressed anti-Western sentiments, other members are keen to avoid engaging in a contest between global powers. The BRICS summit in Johannesburg will likely shed more light on the potential expansion and its implications.

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