BRICS expansion expected to include Pakistan by the year 2026, according to diplomatic sources
The world economy is set for a significant shift as the combined GDP of the BRICS member countries is projected to exceed the global average in 2025. This expansion of the BRICS grouping, often referred to as the "greater BRICS family" or "BRICS+", is gaining momentum and reflecting the growing influence of this bloc.
The "greater BRICS" encompasses 31% of the global land area and 46% of the world's population, making it a formidable force in the global economy. The oil production and reserves of the "greater BRICS" account for approximately 40% of the global energy landscape, further bolstering its economic power.
The original five BRICS members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—have been joined by several other countries, including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia, who officially joined in January 2025. Pakistan, too, is expected to join this ranks during the 18th or 19th annual summit in 2025 or 2026, following its formal application in 2023.
India has previously opposed Pakistan's inclusion in BRICS, but increasing diplomatic and political support from China, Russia, and other members of the group has brightened Pakistan's chances of becoming a full member. Economic strategist Dr Mehmoodul Hassan Khan predicts that Pakistan's inclusion in BRICS would open opportunities for economic partnerships, foreign direct investments, trade diversity, industrialization, digitalization, and AI.
Pakistan-US bilateral relations are in a positive direction due to Pakistan's emergence as an important and trustworthy ally in South Asia. Dr Khan stated that the chances are very bright for the government and military brass of Pakistan to convince US President Donald Trump about Pakistan's expected and imminent inclusion in the BRICS as a full member.
Coordinated efforts of China, Russia, Brazil, South Africa, and other BRICS members are gaining momentum to form an alternative financial and payment system, further solidifying the group's position in the global economy. In 2024, BRICS collectively reached 4% GDP growth, significantly outpacing the global average.
At the BRICS Virtual Summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping shared three proposals focusing on multilateralism, openness, and win-win cooperation. These proposals underscore the group's commitment to fostering a more equitable and sustainable global economic order.
As the BRICS family represents over half of the world's population and contributes nearly 30% of global GDP, it is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the global economy. The inclusion of Pakistan and other new members will further bolster its influence and diversify its economic base, making it a force to be reckoned with in the years to come.
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