South Africa’s government has confirmed the completion of all necessary preparations, including bolstered security arrangements, ahead of the forthcoming main event.
Bheki Cele, the Minister of Police in South Africa, has affirmed the country’s security forces’ state of readiness. He reassures incoming leaders, delegates, and citizens, emphasising that they are fully prepared to ensure the summit proceeds in a safe and secure environment. Cele asserts that there is no need for any apprehension.
“We have elevated our capabilities, but it’s important to note that we have maintained a continuous presence and will remain so even after the BRICS summit,” he further elaborated.
The hosting of the summit by South Africa has highlighted the country’s relationship with the Kremlin, particularly due to its refusal to condemn Russia’s intervention in Ukraine.
Approximately 50 leaders who are not members of BRICS, including Iran’s Ebrahim Raisi and Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo, have confirmed their participation in the upcoming talks.
The BRICS nations collectively constitute around a quarter of the global economy. This year, interest in joining the group has seen a remarkable surge.
A total of at least 40 countries have expressed their desire to become BRICS members, with 23 of them having submitted their applications.
South Africa is in favour of the calls to expand BRICS membership, advocating for a more inclusive approach