MOSCOW, May 28 (RIA Novosti) – The question of expanding the BRICS group of five major emerging economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – has not been raised so far, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday.
“As far as the possible expansion of BRICS is concerned, this issue requires consensus in this organization. So far, no ideas have been voiced about planning further expansion,” Lavrov said after talks with his Argentinean counterpart, Hector Timerman.
Indian Ambassador to Argentina Amarenda Khatua had earlier said Buenos Aires was interested in joining the BRICS, and three of the group’s five members – India, Brazil and South Africa – supported the idea. The Russian Foreign Ministry said the issue would require careful consideration.
Argentina's foreign minister said Buenos Aires planned to develop its relations with BRICS states, but said there were no discussions on joining the group.
“Argentina is a member of many international organizations … Obviously, we are interested in developing relations with BRICS in international politics. We will surely continue working with BRICS, G20 and other venues … but it is up to BRICS to decide on the agenda, not Argentina," he said.
The BRICS countries plan to meet at a summit in Brazil’s Fortaleza in July, where Argentina’s candidacy could be discussed.