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BRICS Officially Expands Membership: 5 New Nations Join the Bloc.

International | Dated: 01 Jan 2026

The BRICS alliance has officially expanded its membership on January 1, 2026. Five new countries—Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iran, and Ethiopia—have formally joined the bloc, doubling its membership to 10. Argentina, which was also invited, declined the membership under its new President Javier Milei.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • The expansion aims to amplify the voice of the Global South in international affairs.
  • With the new members, BRICS now represents nearly 46% of the world's population and 29% of global GDP.
  • Russia has assumed the rotating chairmanship of BRICS for the year 2026.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • Event: BRICS Expansion effective Jan 1, 2026.
  • New Members: Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Iran, Ethiopia.
  • Current Chair: Russia.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which of the following countries did NOT join BRICS on January 1, 2026, despite being invited?

Correct Answer: Argentina

🚀 Quick Recap:

About BRICS

  • Founded – 2006 (as BRIC)
  • New Members – 5