Putin Calls BRICS Expansion Decision Complex and Congratulates New Members

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during the BRICS summit, referred to the decision on the expansion of the organization as complex and congratulated the new members. His remarks were quoted by RIA Novosti.

Earlier, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that leaders of BRICS countries had decided to invite Argentina, Egypt, Iran, Ethiopia, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia to become full members of the alliance, following the summit held in South Africa.

"I would like to thank our South African friends for all they have done during the joint working process, referring to the work on coordinating declarations. I should note that, as it turned out, this work was not easy," Putin stated.

He also congratulated the organization’s new members, saying, "I would like to congratulate our new members, who will work at the level of the BRICS format next year, and I want to assure all partners that we will continue the work that we have started together today to expand the influence of BRICS in the world."

The BRICS summit is taking place in Johannesburg from August 22 to 24, with leaders from China, India, Brazil, and South Africa in attendance. Russia is represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. President Vladimir Putin is participating in the summit via video conference.