Saudi Gazette report

JOHANNESBURG — Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan affirmed that the Kingdom will assess the invitation extended by BRICS for membership and make an appropriate decision.

"In its foreign policy, the Kingdom focuses on building economic partnerships, and we value the invitation from BRICS for membership and are studying it," the minister said in remarks to the press after attending a summit of the group in Johannesburg.

He added: “We await further details regarding the nature and criteria of membership. Based on this information and in accordance with our internal procedures, we will make the appropriate decision.”

Prince Faisal acknowledged that BRICS is one of the significant channels for enhancing economic cooperation.

He also expressed appreciation for the invitation extended by the BRICS group, noting that it stems from the Kingdom's economic stature and international influence.

He also emphasized that all of Saudi Arabia's partnerships aim to bolster economic and developmental aspects, underscoring the Kingdom's commitment to achieving its global goals and aspirations.

Saudi Arabia, among other nations, has been invited to become a member of the BRICS group of developing nations in its first expansion in over a decade. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said Thursday as he wrapped up the annual summit of the group in Johannesburg. “The membership will take effect from the first of January, 2024,” Ramaphosa said. The group currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.