Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk on Wednesday said that his country will back Pakistan’s endeavour to join BRICS, a bloc of the world’s five major emerging economies.
Speaking at a press conference along with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Overchuk said, “We would be supportive of Pakistan’s request to be part of BRICS.”
Responding to Overchuk’s statement, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar remarked, “Pakistan is extremely grateful for Russian support in our bid for BRICS membership.”
Commenting on Russia’s visit to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) scheduled in Islamabad next month, Overchuk confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin will attend it.
He also wished Pakistan to join the North-South Transport Corridor (NSTC), a Russian initiative to connect its economy with Asian countries.
BRICS is an acronym for five of the world’s emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Last year, the bloc also invited Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt, Argentina, and the United Arab Emirates.