Numerous Countries Expressing Interest in Joining BRICS

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in a recent interview that many countries are expressing interest in joining the BRICS alliance. The statement follows India’s successful hosting of the 18th summit in New Delhi on September 12 and 13, 2026. Russia had backed Bangladesh’s candidature to be a part of the bloc, and the alliance is weighing the pros and cons. Bangladesh had officially applied to become a member but has yet to be accepted by the group.

No Decline in Demand For BRICS, Says Russian Diplomat Lavrov

Lavrov stressed that developing countries are fully interested in being a part of BRICS. The interest stems despite the US threatening countries with tariffs if they make such a move. “There is interest, as people understand that BRICS is a prototype of the future multipolar world order,” he said. Emerging economies see the US as a deterrent to their growth. From tariffs to sanctions and rising National debt, the US provides no opportunity for their economies to transition.

“I do not see any decline in interest in BRICS as a result of pressure from Western countries, which, especially the United States, have publicly declared BRICS public enemy number one to progress, whereas their idea of progress is everyone following Washington’s lead,” he said. “And I do not see any decline in interest in replenishing the ranks of our association. Both in terms of membership and in terms of joining the group of partner countries,” Lavrov added.

A total of 45 countries have applied for BRICS membership over the years since the first expansion in 2024. Out of these, 23 countries have formally submitted their applications for membership while 22 others have informally expressed their interest in joining. Moreover, it is unlikely that new members will be inducted, as the expansion happened in 2024. It could take a few more years before new countries are inducted into the alliance.