On October 22, the 16th BRICS summit opened. This is one of the key events of Russia’s presidency in the association this year. Leaders of the intergovernmental organization’s member states will exchange views on issues of interstate cooperation in the fields of politics and security, economics and finance, as well as cultural and humanitarian projects. In the capital of Tatarstan, participants will also discuss the expansion of the organization, with around 30 countries expressing interest in joining BRICS, including Azerbaijan, Algeria, Malaysia, Syria, Thailand, and others. It is worth noting that Egypt, the UAE, Iran, and Ethiopia have already joined the economic bloc on January 1. In addition, current issues in the Middle East and the cooperation between BRICS and the Global South for further sustainable development are set to be addressed. Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet with almost all the leaders attending the summit.