Chen stated that the 15th BRICS Summit, to be held in Johannesburg on August 22-24, will mark the beginning of new steps toward expanding BRICS member states.

As the world faces increasing exclusivity and protectionism, Chinese President Xi Jinping pointed out that BRICS is not an exclusive club or a small circle but a big family of good partners based on mutual support for win-win cooperation, the diplomat recalled.

He added that the future expansion of the BRICS has become the most trending issue at the moment.

Chen stressed that the increased BRICS member states is an essential element to enhance vitality of the bloc. This year’s summit will witness a new solid step in this regard.

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