In this pivotal year of 2023, as South Africa proudly assumes the BRICS Chairmanship, we are privileged to take on the responsibility of hosting not only the 15th Heads of State Summit but also the 9th BRICS PF Assembly. This dual role underlines our dedication to facilitating meaningful interactions, promoting economic prosperity, and advancing strategic partnerships that transcend borders.

The central purpose of the BRICS PF Assembly is to reinforce and cultivate connections at the highest echelons of parliamentary chambers, committees, and groups of parliamentarians. By facilitating inter-parliamentary exchanges and expert consultations, we aim to forge new mechanisms of cooperation and enhance our collective impact.

Aligned with the theme of the 15th BRICS Summit, the 9th BRICS PF Assembly theme, "Harnessing Multilateralism and Parliamentary Diplomacy to Deepen BRICS and Africa Partnership for accelerated implementation of the Africa Free-Trade Agreement," underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering a more inclusive, integrated, and prosperous Africa. This theme not only underscores Africa's significance in South Africa's foreign policy but also underscores our belief that our national interests are intrinsically linked to Africa's stability, unity, and prosperity.

Throughout the Assembly, we anticipate several critical outcomes. These include the formal establishment of the BRICS PF through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, the issuance of a Declaration or Outcome Document outlining our shared vision, a decision on establishing the BRICS PF Secretariat, and most importantly, a strengthened BRICS identity with increased people-to-people exchanges.

Mark your calendars for the scheduled dates of September 27th to 29th, 2023. The Assembly will convene under the watchful guidance of the Executive Authority of Parliament, as we work to deepen our engagement and collective purpose. We have chosen this timeframe to align with the constituency period of Parliament, ensuring an enriched and dedicated participation.

The City of Ekurhuleni, renowned for its dynamism and diversity, will serve as our host, with the Emperor’s Palace, Gauteng, as the main venue for the BRICS PF Assembly.

Let us come together with enthusiasm and an open spirit, ready to engage, learn, and contribute to the collective advancement of the BRICS PF partnership. The journey ahead promises to be enlightening, transformative, and instrumental in shaping a brighter future for our nations and our interconnected world.

With anticipation and high regards,

Chairperson of the BRICS PF Assembly:
Speaker of the National Assembly &
Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces,
Parliament of South Africa