BRICS is an international political organization of leading emerging economies. As of 2012, its five members include Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The BRICS members are mainly developing or newly industrialized countries. They all exert significant influence on regional and global affairs.

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), BRICS, covering more than 40 percent of the world's total population and a quarter of the land, is estimated to have a combined nominal GDP of US$13.6 trillion in 2011, accounting for 19.5 percent of the world's total.

BRICS, as a safeguard and promoter of the interests of developing countries, has been playing an increasingly important role in international affairs and their status within the international arena is also on the rise. The efforts made by the BRICS countries have not only benefited their own people, but also contributed greatly to maintaining world peace, promoting economic development and bringing about prosperity.

BRICS has held annual summits since 2009, with its members taking turns hosting. Prior to South Africa's admission, two BRIC summits were held in 2009 and 2010. The first five-member BRICS summit was held in 2011. The most recent summit was held in India on March 29, 2012.

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