This webinar aims to comprehensively analyse the decision to invite six new countries to join the BRICS from 1 January 2024 – Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Argentina- which declined the invitation. Saudi Arabia’s position remains undecided.
In this webinar, Dr Anil Sooklal, the BRICS Sherpa from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), will engage in a podcast-style discussion with policy analyst Sanusha Naidu and a moderator from SAIIA. This format is chosen for its engaging and conversational nature. It allows for an in-depth yet accessible exploration of BRICS’ recent expansion and South Africa’s influence during its presidency. This dialogue aims to provide insights into the future direction of BRICS in 2024 and beyond, fostering an understanding of its impact on global dynamics.
We encourage audience participation with a dedicated segment for questions and comments. Join us for this enlightening session and be part of a conversation that shapes our understanding of international relations in the modern era.
Some of the questions the webinar will discuss include:
- What were the key achievements and challenges of South Africa’s BRICS Presidency in 2023, and how have they shaped the future direction of the BRICS consortium?
- As Russia assumes the BRICS presidency in 2024, what are the anticipated core topics on its agenda, and what outcomes are expected from the January 2024 BRICS Sherpa meetings?
- How will the expansion of BRICS impact the group’s internal dynamics, and what are the potential challenges and opportunities a larger membership presents?
- Regarding economic and geopolitical implications, what could the expansion of BRICS mean for global trade, political alliances, and the existing world order?
Panelists:
- Ambassador Anil Sooklal, Ambassador at Large: Asia and BRICS at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)
- Sanusha Naidu, Foreign Policy Analyst, Institute for Global Dialogue (IGD)
Moderator:
- Gustavo de Carvalho, Senior Researcher, SAIIA
Audience Participation: The webinar will include a Q&A session, allowing audience interaction.