Pakistan seeks Brics entry for economic relief, but India’s veto keeps the door shut.
Pakistan’s Bid for Brics Membership Faces Challenges
As leaders of the Brics grouping convene in New Delhi for their 18th summit, Pakistan’s application for membership remains unaddressed. Islamabad formally submitted its request to join Brics in 2023, but India’s opposition has prevented its inclusion.
Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch confirmed the application during a weekly press briefing, stating, “Yes, I can confirm that Pakistan has made a formal request to join Brics, which we believe is an important grouping of developing countries.”
Baloch emphasized Pakistan’s amicable relations with most current Brics members and the countries invited to join. She also underscored Islamabad’s commitment to multilateralism and participation in international organizations focused on global peace and development.
The country’s GDP growth stood at 3.70 per cent, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey. A report by Nikkei Asia said Pakistan had purchased a $580 million stake in the Brics-backed New Development Bank. The move was aimed at widening Islamabad’s financing options and reducing its dependence on the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
The new members were expected to formally join during the 2024 summit in Russia. Baloch’s statement came as the grouping prepared to admit Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.