When the Brics summit begins this week, many will be watching whether there is more to this bloc than an array of countries that want to dislodge the hegemony of the US, the UK and the EU.
South African eyes will be wanting to see how this country benefits and intends to benefit from the current Brics and the proposed extended version.Sceptics see it as a mere talk shop that has limited benefits for the country, and would rather South Africa strengthen ties with the nations that actually invest in the country and maintain beneficial trade relations with us.
Adherents to the Brics relationship see it as a means of creating a multipolar world that will be able to stand up to the West. The practical approach should be that one is able to be cold about how South Africa’s interests are best served. The answer to that is that we should not enslave ourselves to any of the powers.Our membership of Brics or any other bloc should be shorn of ideology and be more about national interest and sound relations.
This weeks’ Brics summit must serve as a moment when South Africa breaks from the limited approach of the past.In times of uncertainty you need journalism you can trust. For 14 free days, you can have access to a world of in-depth analyses, investigative journalism, top opinions and a range of features. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest in the future today. Thereafter you will be billed R75 per month. You can cancel anytime and if you cancel within 14 days you won't be billed.
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