The BRICS economic alliance is building toward its most significant annual event in October. Throughout the last two years, the gathering has proven to be vital for its development and cooperation. Yet, the BRICS bloc has seen one key nation reject an invitation to its 2024 annual Summit.

Earlier this week, the group noted its expectation of 54 nations to attend the event. Yet, of that number, only 18 nations had confirmed their attention. Now, the most recent decision has some questions beginning to surface regarding what nations could be set to attend the critical gathering.

brics-india-leaders-ministries-eu-europe

Source: ANI

Also Read: BRICS: Chinese Banks Rejecting 80% of Payments Made in Russian Ruble

BRICS Gets Summit Rejection From Key Nation: More to Follow?

The BRICS bloc has grown notably since 2022. Yet, a key part of that growth has been the establishment of its annual Summit. The event is a meeting place for participating nations within the alliance and partner countries, to discuss the development of the global south’s economic collective.

Last year saw the bloc gather for its most important meeting to date. Specifically, they welcomed four nations in its first expansion effort in more than two decades. The United Arab Emirates (UAE), Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia accepted the invitation to join the bloc.

This year’s iteration is expected to be as important. Yet, it has already seen some nations opt not to attend. Especially, the BRICS bloc has seen one key nation reject the 2024 Summit invitation, much to the surprise of the group.

Photo by Elvis Barukcic / AFP

Also Read: BRICS Pay Blockchain System to Launch Next Month?

Indeed, Serbia has recently stated publicly its inability to attend. Serbian President Aleksander Vucic said that he was unable to travel to Russia during the October dates required. Although he noted he was grateful for the invitation, “important guests” would be traveling from abroad during her Summit days.

There are questions now as to whether this could be a continued trend. In 2023, countries were clamoring to attend. Even France had expressed interest in being a part of the Summit dialogue. Additionally, this year should be filled with countries seeking to be part of continued expansion, and curious about the bloc’s payment system plan.

Earlier this year, three dozen countries discussed interest in joining the bloc. There are expectations that such a decision could be made. Moreover, those countries are likely to be present. They could also factor into the highly anticipated BRICS Pay launch.