Why in the News?
South Africa has initiated a probe into Iran’s participation in BRICS Plus naval exercises held near Cape Town, amid reports that President Cyril Ramaphosa wanted Iran to withdraw to avoid straining ties with the United States.
Key Facts
- Naval drills conducted in False Bay, close to Simon’s Town Naval Base.
- Participating countries included China, Russia and Iran under the BRICS Plus framework.
- Iranian naval vessels were observed operating alongside other participants throughout the exercise.
- South Africa’s Defence Ministry ordered an inquiry to check whether presidential instructions were ignored or misinterpreted.
Diplomatic Context
- The drills coincided with US discussions on extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
- South Africa fears possible trade repercussions or exclusion from AGOA.
- The US Embassy in South Africa expressed concern over Iran’s involvement.
About BRICS Plus
- The BRICS is a forum for cooperation among a group of leading emerging economies. The BRICS includes 10 countries – Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russian Federation, South Africa, United Arab Emirates.
Prelims Pointers
- BRICS Plus has both economic and security dimensions.
- Naval exercises can have trade and diplomatic implications.
- AGOA is a preferential trade programme of the United States for African countries.
- South Africa follows a policy of strategic autonomy in foreign relations.
| [2025] Consider the following statements with regard to BRICS:
I. The 16th BRICS Summit was held under the Chairship of Russia in Kazan II. Indonesia has become a full member of BRICS III. The theme of the 16th BRICS Summit was Strengthening Multiculturalism for Just Global Development and Security Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) I and II (b) II and III (c) I and III (d) I only |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024
