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'New Chapter of Prosperity': Ethiopian Minister Talks Benefits From BRICS Membership

BRICS Summit opens in Johannesburg
BRICS Summit opens in Johannesburg - Sputnik Africa, 1920, 22.12.2023
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In August, the BRICS summit in Johannesburg opened the door for Ethiopia, Argentina, Egypt, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia to join the bloc. Full membership for the countries is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2024.
Ethiopia's membership in BRICS offers great prospects for Addis Ababa in various fields, including the economy, Dr Belete Molla, Ethiopia's Minister of Innovation and Technology, told Sputnik Africa.

"Ethiopia's upcoming membership in the BRICS group, effective in January 2024, marks a significant moment for the country, opening up exciting possibilities across various domains," the minister pointed out.

He reasoned that the country expects to enhance trade as well as investment in infrastructure, manufacturing, and agriculture to "boost its economic growth."

"We expect it [the membership] to boost Ethiopia's international profile, attract foreign investment, and facilitate access to new markets. We also expect further collaborations with other BRICS members in areas like infrastructure development, technology transfer, and skills training," Molla added.

BRICS summit in South Africa - Sputnik Africa, 1920, 15.12.2023
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The minister also highlighted the technology sector, noting that BRICS countries are "at the forefront" of technological advancements in areas such as AI, renewable energy and digital infrastructure. In this vein, Ethiopia's membership in the bloc will allow it to access "cutting-edge technologies" and to benefit from knowledge and skills exchange to upskill its workforce and prepare it for the future of work, Molla emphasized.
"Overall, Ethiopia's BRICS membership holds immense potential for the country's economic development, technological advancement, and global influence. By capitalizing on the opportunities and navigating the challenges effectively, Ethiopia can unlock a new chapter of progress and prosperity," he concluded.
Ethiopia submitted a formal request to join the BRICS group in late June and was invited to join the bloc in August.
In total, over twenty countries have formally applied to join BRICS, as South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor announced in early August.
BRICS, which currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, represents nearly one-third of the world's GDP and about 40% of the world's population.
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