Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu expressed China’s willingness to collaborate with BRICS countries in implementing the consensus reached by their leaders. The goal is to promote the membership expansion process and strengthen cooperation among emerging markets and developing nations. Ma made these remarks during a special virtual meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs held in Beijing.
Looking ahead to the upcoming 15th BRICS Summit in South Africa, Ma expressed China’s eagerness to engage in profound discussions with BRICS partners on various critical issues. The objective is to achieve meaningful outcomes and elevate BRICS cooperation to a higher level. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the summit, scheduled for August 22 to 24, will take place in a physical format, marking the first in-person meeting in three years.
The summit’s agenda is expected to cover significant topics, including the expansion of BRICS membership, the prospect of a common currency within the bloc, and strategies for ensuring food and energy security. Several countries, such as Ethiopia, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Argentina, Iran, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, have shown interest in joining BRICS or have applied for membership.
In an exclusive interview with Global Times, South African Ambassador to China Siyabonga Cyprian Cwele highlighted key areas of discussion for the upcoming summit. These include tackling climate change and energy transition, sharing technology and innovation skills, and coordinating efforts for post-pandemic global growth, stability, and recovery.