Consider the following statements with regard to BRICS; I. 16th BRICS Summit was held under the Chairship of Russia in Kazan. II. Indonesia has become a full member of BRICS. III. The theme of the 16th BRICS Summit was Strengthening Multiculturalism for Just Global Development and Security. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. A. I and II
2. B. II and III
3. C. I and III
4. D. I only

Answer: A

Explanation

Statement I is correct. The 16th BRICS Summit was indeed held in Kazan, Russia, from October 22–24, 2024, under Russia’s chairship. This was also the first summit with the expanded BRICS membership. Statement II is correct. Indonesia officially joined BRICS, becoming the first Southeast Asian member. Its entry was endorsed by BRICS leaders at the 2023 Johannesburg summit, and its full membership was confirmed by the 2025 BRICS presidency holder, Brazil. Statement III is incorrect. The actual theme of the 16th BRICS Summit was ‘Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,’ not ‘Strengthening Multiculturalism.’ The focus was on global governance and cooperation among nations. Therefore, statements I and II are correct. BRICS expansion and its role in global governance are significant topics for UPSC International Relations.