Full Breakdown
Ghana Pursues BRICS Membership with India’s Backing
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Development
During a recent visit by Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India signaled support for Ghana’s bid to join the BRICS grouping of emerging economies. Ghana’s opposition leader Mohammed Ablakwa welcomed the prospect, arguing that membership would broaden the country’s economic options, diversify partnerships, and deepen cooperation within the Global South framework. Jaishankar affirmed India’s willingness to back Ghana’s aspirations, noting that the final decision must be considered by all existing BRICS members.
Background & Context
BRICS was founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China as a forum for emerging economies to coordinate on trade, finance, and development. Since its inception, the bloc has expanded from the original four to eleven member nations, reflecting a growing desire among developing countries to create an alternative platform to traditional Western-led institutions.
Key Figures & Groups
- Subrahmanyam Jaishankar – Indian Minister of External Affairs, representing one of the bloc’s founding members.
- Mohammed Ablakwa – Ghanaian opposition politician, advocating for the nation’s inclusion in BRICS.
- BRICS member states – The twelve-nation coalition that must collectively approve any new admission.
Official Statements & Responses
Jaishankar indicated that India would support Ghana’s application but emphasized that admission requires consensus among all BRICS members.
Why It Matters
If admitted, Ghana would join a bloc that collectively accounts for a significant share of global GDP and trade. Membership could provide Ghana with access to alternative financing mechanisms, joint development projects, and a platform to amplify its voice on issues affecting the Global South. However, the expansion also raises questions about the bloc’s cohesion and the criteria used to evaluate new applicants, as each existing member must weigh geopolitical and economic considerations before granting entry.