Russia Backs Pakistan's Bid to Join BRICS, Says Deputy PM

Moscow expresses support for Islamabad's membership as both nations discuss enhancing economic ties.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk confirmed Moscow's support for Pakistan's application to join the BRICS bloc during a visit to Islamabad.
BRICS, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, recently expanded to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE.
Overchuk and Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar discussed ways to increase bilateral trade, which reached $1 billion last year.
Overchuk also met with Pakistan's army chief Gen. Asim Munir to discuss broader economic cooperation.
Pakistan has maintained a neutral stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, advocating for peace talks to resolve the conflict.