PM formally invited to attend BRICS confce

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been invited to attend the next BRICS Summit in South Africa in a major development of the country in the global politics.

Even though Bangladesh received the formal invitation from the host, it could not be known immediately whether the premier will attend it or not.

Parliamentary Standing Committee Chairman on Foreign Affairs Faruk Khan confirmed the formal invitation.

BRICS leaders are expected to attend the 15th BRICS Summit in South Africa from 22 – 24 August 2023.

The Summit will be hosted at the Sandton Convention Centre (SCC) in Johannesburg, Gauteng.

BRICS leaders will engage with businesses during the BRICS Business Forum and engage with the New Development Bank, BRICS Business Council and other mechanisms during the Summit.

South Africa will also continue its outreach to leaders from Africa and the global South and hold a BRICS Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue during the 15th Summit.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen said Bangladesh will welcome a formal BRICS invitation to join the group of five member states — Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

"We will surely join once they invite us. We are yet to receive any formal letter (inviting us to join). BRICS leaders are thinking of taking some emerging economies — around eight new countries including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Bangladesh," he told reporters.

The journey of BRICS started in 2006 with its four founding members Brazil, Russia, India, and China. In 2010, South Africa joined as the fifth member of the alliance. The purpose of forming BRICS is to increase trade and strengthen relations among the member states. Some also see BRICS as a counter-alliance of the G7. BRICS states hold 42% of the world‍‍`s population. It covers 30 % territory of the world. 18% of the global trade is contributed by the BRICS member states.

BRICS is planning to expand its member state.