Ramaphosa Hails BRICS Expansion as a Beacon of Hope for Global South

Kazan, Russia: President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised the expanded BRICS bloc, describing it as a “beacon of hope” for the global South during his address at the BRICS Summit plenary session in Kazan, Russia. The enlarged BRICS group now includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), making it one of the world’s most influential economic blocs.

With the recent expansion, the BRICS countries represent 32% of the world’s land area, 3% of the global population, around 35% of global GDP, and 20% of world exports. “Fifteen years ago, South Africa attended its first BRICS Summit in Sanya, China. Today, we gather as a group of nine leading emerging countries. Our historic expansion is a beacon of hope for the global South,” said Ramaphosa. He emphasized the bloc’s strength in diversity and cooperation rather than competition.

The President urged BRICS to leverage its influence to drive global change, especially in reforming the UN Security Council to be more inclusive. He criticized the Council for failing to uphold its mandate of maintaining international peace and security, citing unresolved conflicts worldwide.

Addressing the situation in Palestine, Ramaphosa expressed South Africa’s concern over the escalating violence. He stressed the international community’s duty to prevent genocide and support Palestinian aspirations for statehood, justice, and freedom. “The International Court of Justice has made it clear that the international community has a duty to prevent genocide by Israel,” he noted.

Ramaphosa called on BRICS to champion reforms and support a multipolar world order, reiterating the group’s commitment to shaping a fairer international system.