Security Guard Halts Xi Jinping's Translator at BRICS Summit

Presiden China Xi Jinping. Foto: (AFP/NOEL CELIS)

During a high-level BRICS conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, a noteworthy incident occurred as the translator of Chinese President Xi Jinping was intercepted by a security guard on Wednesday, August 23rd.

According to footage captured, the translator hurried towards Xi, who was walking on the red carpet to enter a room.

Xi turned around to witness the commotion unfolding behind him.

The BRICS summit took place from August 22nd to 24th, with all member states, including Brazil, Russia, China, India, and South Africa, in attendance.

While all the heads of state were physically present, Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. President Vladimir Putin participated virtually.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that six additional countries, including Saudi Arabia and Iran, will become full members of BRICS in January 2024.

"We have decided to invite the Republic of Argentina, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to become full members of BRICS," stated Ramaphosa on Thursday, August 24th, as reported by CNN.

Previously, the South African government had indicated that over 40 countries, including Indonesia, expressed interest in joining BRICS.