Pakistan is expected to secure membership in BRICS by 2026, a development that could reshape the country’s economic and diplomatic trajectory. According to diplomatic sources, Pakistan is likely to be formally admitted either at the 18th or 19th BRICS summit, scheduled over the next two years.
Economic strategist and regional affairs expert Dr Mehmoodul Hassan Khan, citing these diplomatic insights, noted that Pakistan’s inclusion would open a fresh window of opportunities. He emphasized that membership could accelerate foreign direct investment inflows, diversify trade partnerships, and enhance the country’s progress in industrialization, digitalization, and artificial intelligence.
Pakistan formally applied for BRICS membership in 2023, with the intention of aligning more closely with the bloc’s growing influence in global economic affairs. Currently, BRICS consists of ten full members—Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia, the latter of which joined in January 2025. In addition, 11 countries hold observer or partner status, with Vietnam becoming a BRICS partner in June 2025. This expansion, often referred to as “BRICS+,” reflects the bloc’s rising appeal and momentum in reshaping global governance.
While India has historically opposed Pakistan’s entry, growing support from China, Russia, and other influential members has improved the prospects of Pakistan’s inclusion. The BRICS framework now represents over half of the world’s population, contributes nearly 30% of global GDP, and accounts for 20% of global trade. With its expanded footprint across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America, BRICS is increasingly viewed as the leading voice of the Global South.
Data from the International Monetary Fund highlights the bloc’s growing economic weight. In 2024, BRICS economies collectively achieved 4% GDP growth, outpacing the global average. The World Economic Outlook projects that the grouping’s GDP growth in 2025 will reach 3.4%, compared to a world average of 2.8%. Analysts argue that BRICS is becoming more influential than the G7, given its rising share in global production, trade, and energy reserves, which account for around 40% of the world’s oil landscape.
The potential membership carries significant geopolitical implications for Pakistan. Dr Khan suggested that joining BRICS would reinforce Pakistan’s strategic relevance while complementing its recent diplomatic outreach with the United States. Despite India’s resistance, Pakistan’s strengthening ties with both China and Russia, alongside renewed engagement with Washington, position it as a balancing actor in regional and global politics.
He further noted that Pakistan’s armed forces and government have been actively working to build strategic cushions by reinforcing diplomatic relations with the US. The recent high-profile visit of General Asim Munir to Washington, which resulted in discussions on investments in mining, renewables, education, and healthcare, reflects Pakistan’s broader economic diplomacy.
According to Dr Khan, these efforts could ease any potential friction with the US over Pakistan’s BRICS membership bid, with diplomatic maneuvering expected to convince Washington of the benefits of Pakistan’s inclusion. With BRICS pushing for multilateral reforms, alternative financial systems, and a gradual shift away from dollar dominance, Pakistan’s participation could deepen its role in shaping the economic architecture of the Global South.
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