China Urges Brics to Become Geopolitical Rival to G7

China is urging the Brics group, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, to rival the G7. At an upcoming summit in Johannesburg, multiple countries might be inducted into the bloc, marking its largest expansion since inception. However, India and China are at odds, with debates centering on the bloc’s role as an economic entity versus a political challenger to the West. 23 nations have expressed interest in joining, including controversial candidates like Iran, Belarus, and Venezuela, which might be viewed by the West as alignment with Russia and China. Argentina, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia are top contenders for membership. Expansion criteria are under discussion, with emphasis on trade in local currencies rather than adopting a common currency.