The new BRICS, or what might be called BRICS+, will soon be comprised of nations with nearly five times the population and more than 20 percent greater economic output than the G7 grouping of wealthy industrialized nations. Some see the expanded BRICS as a “new alliance” that will soon “overtake” Western-led institutions such as the G7 and NATO. Others lampooned the announcement, seeing BRICS as a “fake” institution lacking a clear vision or coherence. Last year's summit was significant for how it contrasted with the G7 meeting, which was held almost simultaneously. Indeed, BRICS and its message seems to carry a certain appeal, as apparently as many as 40 nations wish to join the bloc.

Source: The North Africa Journal September 01, 2023 14:15 UTC