Photos: Wikimedia Commons
African leaders joined their counterparts at the 16th annual BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, this week as the alliance, challenging the Western political and economic hegemony, seeks to expand.
Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed were officially welcomed into the club, joining Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa in the expanding group. Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates were also formally welcomed.
President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated concerns about military aggression by Israel against the people of Gaza, and maintained that South Africa supported a two-state solution. He also urged the BRICS members to deepen financial and economic co-operation as they seek to create a multipolar global order.
Egypt’s El-Sisi highlighted escalating regional and international crises, while Abiy called for more “intra BRICS trade, investment and tourism” to enhance economic growth.
Congo Brazzaville’s President Denis Sassou Nguesso was also present, alongside other leaders invited by President Putin.
Last year, BRICS members announced plans for a common currency as they move towards de-dollarization and de-centering from the United States’ dominance in global financial architecture.
