India likely to back Pakistan's BRICS bid in Kazan: reports

In a significant development, India is expected to support Pakistan's long-standing bid for BRICS membership at the upcoming summit in Kazan, Russia, scheduled for October 22-23, according to Indian media reports.

The development marks a notable shift in New Delhi's stance, which had previously opposed Pakistan's inclusion in the BRICS grouping due to concerns over Islamabad's economic instability and potential geopolitical challenges.

The 16th BRICS Summit will focus on expanding the bloc's membership, which already represents over 45% of the world's population and 28% of the global economy.

A shift in consensus among existing BRICS members, particularly Russia and China, has paved the way for India's reconsideration of its position.

According to sources familiar with the matter, India’s approval of Pakistan’s membership bid comes after External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Islamabad earlier this month for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting.

As the summit approaches, all eyes will be on Kazan, where leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa will gather to discuss the future of the BRICS grouping.

The potential entry of Pakistan into this economic bloc is poised to have far-reaching implications for regional and global economics.