Pakistan wanted into BRICS at a moment when the grouping was preparing for its biggest expansion yet. It sought Russia's support, reached out to member countries and made clear that it wanted to be part of what it called an important organisation. Yet, nearly three years after formally announcing its application, Islamabad remains outside the expanded grouping.
The story of Pakistan's stalled BRICS bid began in an awkward fashion. In August 2023, when BRICS leaders agreed to admit Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan was not among them. Asked whether Islamabad had been snubbed, Pakistan's Foreign Office sought to play down the setback, saying the country had not yet made a formal request to join the grouping.
