Lula advocates expanding BRICS membership

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed support for more countries joining the BRICS group, which currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Around 20 countries, including Argentina, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Iran, and Venezuela, have formally applied to join. Lula's comments came after concerns were raised about expanding the group's membership. The BRICS summit in Johannesburg will discuss parameters for accepting new members, and all heads of state are expected to attend. Lula has consistently challenged the Western-dominated international structure, advocating for a common currency among BRICS nations and criticizing institutions like the IMF and the U.N. Security Council.