Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and his wife, Rosangela “Janja” da Silva, have arrived in Johannesburg ahead of the opening of the BRICS summit in South Africa. They were joined by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who also headed to South Africa on Monday, according to state media.
For President Xi, this visit marks his second international trip of 2023, following his official trip to Russia in March. He previously visited South Africa in 2018, aiming to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with the continent.
President Xi’s departure from Beijing on Monday was confirmed by the Xinhua news agency, which reported that he would attend the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg and embark on a state visit to South Africa. The summit, held between August 22-24 under the theme “BRICS and Africa,” will bring together the heads of Brazil, China, India, South Africa, and Russia’s top diplomat.
Prior to the summit, there were uncertainties about whether Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for his role in the Ukraine war, would attend. South Africa, being a signatory of the ICC, has raised questions about Putin’s attendance.
The summit’s agenda includes discussions on the potential expansion of BRICS membership. The bloc has previously expressed openness to welcoming new members. Several African countries, including Algeria, Egypt, and Ethiopia, have expressed their desire to join.
The summit has extended invitations to a total of 69 countries, encompassing all African states. BRICS, an informal association aimed at countering Western economic dominance, takes its name from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Combined, the group represents 23% of the world’s gross domestic product and 42% of the world’s population.
The meeting between the leaders of these nations presents an opportunity to strengthen cooperation and advance common interests. Discussions are expected to cover a wide range of topics, including economic partnerships, regional security, and global governance.
Foreign direct investment and economic cooperation opportunities will be in focus, as the member states seek to enhance trade ties and explore joint ventures. Africa’s vast natural resources and growing consumer market make it an attractive destination for investment and partnership.
BRICS has demonstrated its commitment to supporting Africa’s development through various initiatives, such as the New Development Bank and the BRICS Business Council. These institutions aim to provide financial support and promote trade between member countries and African nations.
In addition to economic collaboration, the summit will address security challenges faced by the continent. Cooperation on counter-terrorism, peacekeeping efforts, and conflict resolution will be high on the agenda. The leaders will discuss ways to tackle issues such as transnational crime, extremism, and illicit trade.
The BRICS summit in Johannesburg holds great significance for Africa, as it provides an opportunity for the continent to strengthen its ties with major global powers. The discussions and outcomes of this summit have the potential to shape Africa’s trajectory and promote its economic and political development.
As the leaders gather for this important event, all eyes will be on Johannesburg as the world waits to see how BRICS, in collaboration with African nations, can tackle the challenges that lie ahead and work towards a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
